Study Tips For College Students
Start writing a post

8 Study Tips For The Overworked College Student

Because It's Always Grind Season.

124
8 Study Tips For The Overworked College Student
Lauren Spiezia

As many students return from spring break and the second half of the semester kicks up again, being bombarded by assignments can feel very overwhelming. Here are some study tips I've used many times that always work to minimize my stress, even when my to-do list is huge.

1. Plan out the order that you’re going to complete everything you have to do

Do the smaller assignments first, then the bigger ones. Because they probably take less time, getting the little stuff out of the way first will not only make you feel pretty productive but give you more leeway with how much time you have to spend on bigger things on your to-do list.

2. Download an app that that will help you be less distracted by your phone

There are probably hundreds of apps that can turn off notifications and apps, so you definitely have a lot to choose from. My personal favorite is Flipd because once you turn it on (you can pick how long you want it to run), it disables all apps except for your essentials, like messages and calling. This way, you know you won't be physically able to waste time Instagram scrolling instead of writing an essay.

3. Don’t always study in the same place

I've definitely noticed that studying in the same corner of the same library every day can get boring and make me feel like I'm stuck in a slump. So remember that a change of scenery is always nice, and chances are that your campus has an abundance of different places to get work done. If you have a busy week, maybe explore a little bit every day to find a new place.

4. Make a homework/study playlist

If music helps keep you focused and relaxed, a playlist is perfect for work sessions. Use Apple Music or Spotify to make collections of calming music that can help you drown out outside distractions.

5. Don’t be afraid to take a short break

Staring at books, notes, or a computer screen for hours on end can make you feel like you're going crazy. Taking a walk, eating a snack, or doodling can rest your brain for a little bit and make you feel ready to take on the world.

6. Know your limits when staying up late

If you're not a night owl and know that any work you do at 3 or 4 a.m. will not be your absolute best, don't feel like you need to push yourself. You can always go to sleep earlier and set an alarm to wake up early and get things done before your classes start. Plus, you'll be well-rested!

7. Utilize any breaks in your schedule

If you have any breaks between classes, whether they're an hour or five hours long, use them to get some work done if you're feeling overwhelmed. Head to your favorite study spot on campus, maybe get some food and grind until your next class. You'll have more done by later in the day and maybe even go to sleep earlier, instead of pulling an all-nighter.

8. In extreme cases, coffee naps can be your best friend

Coffee naps, or cappuccinos, are when you quickly drink a cup of coffee or something else that's caffeinated then immediately nap for 20-30 minutes. The trick is that the length of the nap is about as long as it takes for the effects of the caffeine to kick in, so you'll wake up feeling refreshed from sleeping and more awake from the coffee. Two of my friends told me about this a while ago, and it really works if you're staying up late to do homework or study. But be warned, making cappuccinos a habit can decrease their effect, so only take one in emergencies!

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

92920
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments