Online learning and distance education are getting more and more popular over the last year. This can be good news for some people because they can avoid commuting hassles and save on transportation costs. Meanwhile, for some people, studying at home can be challenging due to distractions and social isolation.
If you feel fatigued or burnout from hours and hours of studying online, try our 5 easy tips to increase your study-at-home productivity.
Tip #1: Organize your study space
As a student, your study space is your sanctuary, so it is important to keep your study space clean and clear. A tidy, well-organized desk can boost your study productivity by limiting distractions while ensuring you have all the essentials you need for a study like laptops, notebooks, and writing utensils. Check out our previous blog for more tips on creating the best study space.
Tip #2: Have a to-do list organized by priority
Sometimes, your brain is not the most effective memory tool. That is when a to-do list comes in handy. As you can tell from its name, a to-do list is a list of things you need to do. It is a popular tool that most people use to keep up with all upcoming tasks. However, organizing tasks by priority is the extra step that could make a big difference in your productivity level.
A to-do list organized by priority can help you keep track of all the assignment deadlines, exam dates, and what tasks need to be prioritized at that moment. Also, checking tasks off your to-do list is one of the most satisfying feelings in the world.
Tip #3: Set your own deadline
In addition to having a to-do list, setting your own deadline get you one step closer to that A grade or crushing your upcoming proctored exams. Look at your study schedules and set your own deadlines at least 1-2 days before the actual due date. This gives you more time to review your assignments or relax before the exam. However, keep the deadlines realistic so you can have enough time to carefully go through all important materials.
Tip #4: Try the anti-procrastination “two-minute rule.”
Procrastination is your enemy. David Allen, the father of a time management method called “Getting Things Done”, come up with an anti-procrastination “two-minute rule”. It means if you can do anything in under two minutes, get it done now. There are multiple ways to apply this rule to boost your study-at-home productivity with a little twist. For example, instead of trying to do 39 mock multiple choice questions for your upcoming TCF Canada reading test once a week, try to get 3 questions done first. By doing that every day, not only will you eventually build a habit of studying every day for your TCF Canada, but you would improve your reading skills too.
Tip #5: Create a study plan with some short breaks.
It is easy to develop a study plan from your to-do list organized by priority and study deadlines from previous steps. The detailed study plan will vary between individuals as everyone has different learning styles and preferences. However, it is essentials to include some short breaks in there if you not already did.
Researches have shown that the longer you work, the more unproductive you are. Hence, breaks are the secret weapon to keep your productivity levels high and improve your focus and attention. Do some stretches, pet your dogs, treat yourself a snack, or even go out for a walk to recharge your energy. They are crucial to avoid any potential fatigue or burnout that may occur after several hours of looking at the computer screen.
Summary
Studying at home might not work for everyone. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is inevitable. If you have everything on track, keep up the good work! However, if you are feeling stressed, fatigued, or even burnout, try one of your above tips (or all 5!) to boost your productivity. Don’t forget to check out our Blogs sections and Study Tips playlist on Youtube for more valuable tips!
