Discovering the perfect study environment can significantly boost your focus, learning capabilities, and retention of crucial information. Effective studying is a cornerstone of success in college and paves the way for a prosperous future career. Research from Psychological Science highlights the benefits of a strategic study approach in enhancing exam performance for college students. Without an ideal study setting, achieving this success can become a challenging feat.
While the best place to study may be different for everyone, we’ve put together a list of nine ideas that are often successful--perhaps at least a few will work well for you. At EHL Hospitality Business School, we're spoilt for choice when it comes to ideal study spots, but whether you study at EHL or another college you can probably find these study locations near you too.
1. The library
Tried and true, the library is a great go-to for studying for work that requires deep concentration, be it your local library or the one belonging to your college or university. Not only will you have peace and quiet but you should have great internet access, plenty of table space, and if you do require a textbook to cite then it should be at hand.
One potential challenge that could arise, is if a group work session requires a lively discussion. Additionally, for those who enjoy snacking or listening to music, it may not be the most ideal study setting as you might disturb those around you.
2. Coffee shops
Most coffee shops offer ample table space, free Wi-Fi connection, and power sockets for customers. Many people find the white noise from the hustle and bustle of a lively coffee shop the perfect backdrop to get stuck into uni projects, essays, and revision sessions. Whilst others might find it a distraction, this one divides students.
Just a heads up, spending extended periods of time at coffee shops can get pricey if you're a fan of ordering a coffee, or three! Plus, they usually don't allow outside food, so buying meals from the coffee shop can add to the expenses.
3. An empty classroom
If you're looking for a peaceful and distraction-free atmosphere to study in, you may want to inquire with your teacher regarding the availability of classroom space after class, or just look around campus for a free room.
This option could provide an ideal setting for focused and productive studying, free from any disruptions that may occur during regular class hours. It would also make the ideal setting for group work.
4. A friendly home
Sometimes all you need is a change of environment to breathe new life into your studying session. Perhaps you require a conducive study space that offers both a comfortable ambiance and homemade meals. This kind of setup can serve as a great motivator for an extended study session. Do you know of anyone nearby who can provide such an environment?
What's more, studying in pairs can be beneficial for those with the self-control to keep social chatter to set break times. You can also help each other work through problems together and have discussions on topics that will help both your understanding and information retention.
5. Outdoors
When it's warm outside studying in the open air just makes sense if you can focus in this setting. Find a picnic table, set down a blanket in your local park, or go to a roof terrace and study al fresco. You can often get a new lease on your subject by taking it outside with you. What's more, different locations where you learn information help make it stick in your brain.
There are a couple of downsides to outdoor studying. The lack of power sockets for laptop charging, and often lack of toilets and Wi-Fi. Along with the glare of the sun on screens, outdoor studying is best used for reading, making notes, and memorizing information for shorter periods of time. Try and find a spot close to public toilets or local shops and cafes so that you can extend your study session for as long as you need!
6. Campus common spaces
Does your campus have a lounge, common room, bar, association offices, or other spaces that can be used to study? Being on campus can put you in the right frame of mind to study so if you can't find a spot in the library, scour the campus for comfortable seating and tables tucked away in quiet corners where you can set up your study station for a productive session. If you're on campus you know you're never too far away from toilets, a water fountain, or a food and drink outlet.
7. A book store
Many bookstores have cafes, tables, and other additions to make them more welcoming to casual patrons like yourself. Why not take advantage of the option and go study? A bookstore could be the perfect quiet spot to inspire you, where you can also grab a little caffeine and snacks to boost your energy and keep you going.
What's more, bookstores are probably best known for their large collection of books which could provide valuable information to help with your studies.
8. Public transport
Do you have to ride the bus or train to and from class each day? Use the time you’re on board to study and open up some extra free time for other things you enjoy. If reading on the move gives you motion sickness, a great way to get information passively is to listen to audiobooks and podcasts. A great way to turn dead time into a studying superpower!
9. Your dorm room
While it may not be ideal, your dorm room is always an option. It offers the comfort and amenities of home but don't get too comfortable. Consider adding a small desk or special chair just for study time so you're not tempted to study in your bed, which is not only terrible for your posture but also bad for your concentration and could give you difficulties in getting to sleep at night.
At home you won't have any trouble staying hydrated, you could also invest in a coffee machine and stock up on snacks to keep you fuelled for your study session. This can be a great option for routine studying but do try to mix it up a bit. Different backdrops help to retain information in your brain through associations.
While having the right place to study is vital, how you study is just as important. Make sure you spend some time learning proper study skills and turn off distractions around you so you can focus on the job at hand. You’ll be glad you did. After all, as Thomas Edison once said: “There is no substitute for hard work.”
