3 Helpful Study Tips Everyone Should Know

February 25, 2022February 25, 2022 Joyce Laroche Education

While most of us don’t enjoy studying, it is a necessary part of life, particularly in school. Finding ways to make the most of the time you spend studying is essential, particularly if you’re busy and don’t want to spend hours memorizing details you may not even need. The good news is that there’s a lot you can do to be more effective and productive when you need to retain information. If you need some advice, keep reading for three helpful study tips that everyone should know.

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1. Make a study plan that accounts for your goals.

You can learn a lot by looking at what you need to meet your professional goals. This isn’t to say that there are any assignments that you shouldn’t take seriously, but you may find that you need a minimum GPA in a particular subject or to take a particular class if you want to apply for certain undergraduate and graduate programs. Being aware of these details can help you plan your schedule and inform your study habits.

For example, if you’re planning to become a paralegal, you should find out what coursework will be most relevant when you apply for college or a job in the future. You can Google “bachelor degree paralegal studies online” to find out everything you need to know if you want to gain acceptance to and succeed in a paralegal studies program. While you may not have your entire career planned out in high school, it’s likely you’ll have a general idea of your interests and what academic disciplines you’re most suited for.

2. Stay comfortable during your study sessions.

What you wear can actually have a significant impact on your ability to focus on studying. Picking up some loungewear you love is smart, but don’t neglect the importance of your underwear. It’s worth looking into more comfortable styles like boxer briefs to wear under your favorite pair of leggings or cozy sweatpants. Anyone who wears a bra may also want to trade underwire for a soft and flexible sports bra, which is less likely to cause discomfort.

3. Find ways to manage stress and promote productivity.

Taking breaks is essential when you have a lot of work to do, but you should make an effort to maximize the effectiveness of the time you use to recharge. Spending time in nature is a great idea, as research indicates that it can reduce your levels of cortisol, a stress-producing hormone. Even just spending 20 minutes interacting with the natural world can have a noticeable effect. Instead of spending half an hour on your phone when you need some time away from your books, think about taking a walk in your local park if you want to feel a little more relaxed.

Believe it or not, there are even studies that show keeping houseplants can be beneficial for productivity. Research shows that keeping plants around can boost creativity and productivity. In one 1996 study, students worked 12 percent faster and reported less stress when plants were placed nearby. In 2007, a different study concluded that employees took fewer sick days and were more productive on the job when there were more plants in their work environment.

As you can see, there’s a lot to consider if you want to get the most out of your study sessions. While you should strive to get good grades in every subject, be aware of which areas will be the most relevant for your academic and professional future. You’re also unlikely to be able to focus for hours at a time if you’re uncomfortable, so invest in some outfits and undergarments that will keep you cozy when you’re stuck in the library. Even small changes like taking outdoor breaks and purchasing houseplants can make you more productive. You just need to take the time to find an approach that works for you.