A Student’s Guide to the Perfect Study Environment

It’s a good idea to create a permanent work environment somewhere – a ‘study zone’ that’s uncluttered and neutral, and allows you to step away from any outside distractions, as well as the temptations of everyday socialising or relaxing. This could be a corner of your room or a quiet place in your home. If you’re studying in your bedroom, it’s best to pick a spot away from the bed and introduce items that will help with the process of studying, like a pinboard for your notes, or a bookcase for your textbooks.

It’s important to avoid over-cluttering, though, as organising your space will help to organise your mind. Harsh or poor lighting can also negatively impact your ability to absorb information and stay focused, so it’s handy to get a good lamp for your desk and avoid straining your eyes. Check out our guide to home office design and workspace decorating ideas for inspiration.

We all know that sound can be a big distraction – your favourite song being played on the radio or overhearing the conversations of those around you can instantly break your concentration. Our suggestion would be to create a study playlist of ambient music without lyrics; one that won’t send you to sleep but will also keep you calm and balanced. You could try one of the many study playlists on Spotify, or websites like Rainy Mood, Coffitivity or Noisli to create the perfect working ambiance. Whatever works best for you, make sure your sound system is delivering crisp, undisturbed music to keep you focused.

It’s good to get comfy – but not too comfy. You can start by selecting an ergonomic chair that allows you to sit for long periods of time without discomfort or straining your back. As soon as you start feeling restless or uncomfortable, it’s important to get up, stretch your legs and change your perspective. (It’s also worth setting a time limit on your break and avoiding any activities that you know you won’t be able to easily abandon, such as napping or watching TV.) When it comes to the end of your study session, it’s important to make sure your head hits the pillow at a reasonable time and that you get enough sleep, as our brains don’t function effectively when they’re not getting proper rest.

Treating your body well helps to feed the mind. It’s a good idea to avoid junk food, which might be quick and easy but will inevitably affect your ability to stay focused and energised. Good brain foods include oily fish, eggs, fresh fruit and vegetables, peanut butter and fresh coffee.

Smell can be a powerful memory aid (like when you get a whiff of suntan lotion and remember the beach). You could try wearing a particular fragrance while studying and put on the same scent for the exam, to transport you back to the work you’ve done in preparation. Or why not get some scented candles to create a calming atmosphere? Light the candles just before your study session, to signal to your brain that it’s time to focus again.

Although we advise against having your mobile too close at hand when you are studying, there are ways in which it can be used to improve concentration. As technology becomes a bigger part of our lives every day, there are some apps that can help to boost focus and relaxation for studying:

In general, it’s helpful to engage as many senses as you can while you study, to wake up every corner of your mind and ensure the material you are studying will stay with you. Heading off to university? Take a look at our Uni checklist for what to take in your first year.