Curating the Ideal Study Routine

School as We Know It

Ah, school, a building overflowing with the mundane loop of lessons, heaps of homework, and the shrinking hours of adequate sleep. Walking the plank of student life often feels like an unending journey that slaps you in the face with layers of monotony and exasperation. Balancing the pursuit of good grades with the need for downtime becomes a perpetual challenge. Amidst a demanding academic schedule, sleep often feels like a luxury we cannot afford. Despite our unique learning styles and needs, there exists foundational study habits that reign as rudimentary tools to help us develop more effective study routines.

Water Your Brain!

Water, water, water! There's a reason our bodies are composed of 70% water. Every cell, tissue, and organ in our bodies relies on water to function properly. Our brains, in particular, depend on adequate hydration to maintain optimal cognitive function, focus, and memory. Even a simple bottle of water while studying or doing homework can make a significant difference. Taking periodic sips helps you stay awake and replenishes the fluids lost through sweat and respiration. This hydration boost can enhance productivity, improve concentration, and keep you refreshed and alert. So, next time you sit down to study or tackle that homework assignment, don't forget to keep a bottle of water handy—it's a small step that can make a big difference in your academic performance and overall well-being.

Set the Right Mood

Now, let's talk about the importance of an organized study environment. A designated study space, whether a desk or your dining room table, is crucial for effective learning. Avoid studying while walking around or lounging on your bed, as these settings can distract your brain from focusing on school-related tasks. Psychologically, our brains are wired to associate certain places with specific activities. By consistently studying in the same location, your brain will recognize that environment as a cue for productivity. 

Keep your study area tidy and decluttered to minimize distractions. Have your essentials within reach—water, textbooks, electronics, chargers, and perhaps a snack. This way, you won't be tempted to get up and look for these items, disrupting your concentration. A tidy and well-equipped study space not only boosts your efficiency but also sets a positive tone for your study sessions. So, perhaps take a few minutes to organize your study space before diving into your assignments, a simple yet effective way to optimize your learning environment and boost your academic performance.

Turn the Music Up!

Playing instrumental music, such as Lo-fi or classical tunes, can enhance concentration and productivity. Studies have shown that listening to music without lyrics can improve focus and cognitive performance. Additionally, white or brown noise can help cancel out distracting noises in your environment, creating a more conducive studying atmosphere. Consider wearing headphones to fully immerse yourself in the music or noise, blocking out other sounds and allowing your brain to concentrate fully on the task at hand.

However, it's important to remember that everyone is different when it comes to studying preferences. While some may find music or white noise beneficial, others might prefer total silence or working without headphones. It's all about experimenting to find what works best for you. So, whether you're a music lover or someone who prefers quiet, take the time to explore different study environments and techniques to discover what helps you focus and learn most effectively.

Time Yourself!

Timing yourself during study sessions can also be a game-changer for productivity. Knowing that time is passing can motivate you to stay focused and make the most of your study time. The Pomodoro Technique, a time management method that involves working for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break, has been shown to be effective for many people. This technique helps you pace yourself and become more aware of how you're utilizing your time. As you time yourself, you'll realize how quickly time passes and how much progress you can make when you sit down and work productively.

However, the Pomodoro Technique or timing yourself might not work for everyone. Some people find that the scheduled breaks can distract them or tempt them to extend the break sessions. Therefore, finding a balance and adjusting your study techniques according to what works best for you is essential. Whether you prefer timed sessions, total silence, or background music, remember always to experiment, experiment, experiment!

Dedicating Time

Ah, procrastination, the ever-present temptation that lures us away from our tasks. We often indulge in small bursts of dopamine by mindlessly scrolling through our phones or getting lost in social media feeds. However, setting aside your phone or other technology can make a world of difference. Start by writing down or typing up a simple to-do list or schedule for the day or week. Allocate specific time frames for studying and other tasks. At first, it might feel challenging to resist the urge to procrastinate, but as you establish these habits, they will become ingrained in you to the point where not following them feels off. Taking control of your time and minimizing distractions makes it easier to stay focused, productive, and on track with your academic goals.

Reward Yourself and.. Sleep!

Rewarding yourself after a productive work session is crucial for maintaining motivation and energy. While I perform better and become more productive without the Pomodoro method, preferring longer study sessions at my desk, breaks are still essential. When I start to feel a bit groggy or burned out, I'll head downstairs to grab a snack or enjoy some fruits. Food and drinks can be great fuel to recharge and refocus. Alternatively, I might take a quick 5-minute music break, listening to just a couple of songs to reenergize and get back into the studying rhythm. However, feel free to reward yourself in whatever way works best for you. You may prefer taking a snack break every 20 minutes or so. Experiment and find what keeps you motivated and refreshed!

It might seem ironic that I'm emphasizing the importance of adequate sleep while teaching you how to create a study routine to get more sleep. Developing these productive habits can also help you establish a healthier sleep schedule through effective time management. However, it is also essential to recognize how crucial sleep is for our well-being, especially for teenagers. Research suggests that teenagers need about 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night. Ideally, going to bed around 9 to 10 PM and waking up around 6 to 7 AM can help you get the recommended amount of sleep. Sleep not only rejuvenates your body but also plays a vital role in memory retention. While pulling all-nighters or studying late at night might seem like a good idea, it can often be counterproductive. So, prioritize sleep and consider adjusting your study schedule to ensure you get enough rest, especially if there's no school the next day.

Lastly, remember to experiment with different study techniques and routines to find what works best for you. We all have unique learning styles and preferences, so don't get discouraged if something doesn't work out initially. Embrace our differences, be open to new approaches, and trust that you'll find the strategies that help you succeed. You've got this!

Edited by: Esther Chung