We've all been there - it's 3:30 in the morning and you're nowhere near being done with your problem set or the paper that's due in the morning. Your peak writing hours have passed and, at this point, your goal is to just hand something in. Your confidence in your ability to stay up long enough to finish has faded and you find yourself drifting. I find myself in this situation on a weekly basis (at least), so here are the ways I keep myself awake.
1. Shower
This is what I've been doing since middle school. On days where I know I'm going to have a lot of work, I wait to shower until I feel like I can't stay awake any longer. Spending 10 minutes under running (cold) water is refreshing and will help to keep you up.
2. Caffeine
This one may seem obvious, but the correct type of caffeine is essential. Even though a quick-fix like Five Hour Energy or Red Bull is appealing, You'll probably crash after an hour or so, which is not the goal. Rather, coffee or tea tend to be better options. I personally prefer tea because coffee can make me too jittery. I recommend black tea which is the most effective, but green tea also works well.
3. Stimulants
As a music nerd, it drives me insane when people tell me that they like classical music because they listen to Beethoven to study. That said, music can make it easier to focus on what you're doing but only if you're not listening to words. I know plenty of people who will tell you that they do their work just fine with their regular music, which is probably true for some but not most. It doesn't have to be classical, but, as long as you don't have to split your focus between lyrics and your work, it's fine. Jazz, international music, and instrumental music are all great to study to.
4. Temperature
Make the room a little colder than usual. If you're too comfortable, you'll be more likely to fall asleep and the cold can help make you more alert. That said, don't make yourself uncomfortable to the point where you're rushing to finish.
5. Movement
Get up every hour (or half hour if you're really tired) and do something. Do some pushups, jumping jacks, run in place, go up and down the stairs, anything. Just get your blood pumping again and take a few minutes away from whatever you're doing.
6. Eat Something
I know you've seen all of the hipster Instagram posts about "study snacks" and I know they're annoying, but try them. Skip the chips or nutella and go for something more healthier like peanut butter on an apple.
7. Lighting
Make sure the lighting is compatible with what you're doing. Obviously you need to be able to see what you're reading, but, if the lights are too bright, you'll be more tempted to shut your eyes. Gentle lighting (from something that's not an overhead light) is key to staying up all night.
8. Take a Break
Whether it's a scheduled break or just whenever you absolutely need to, take five minutes to check Facebook/Snapchat/Instagram, work on your knitting, watch a video on Youtube, etc. As long as you don't end up in a black hole of cat videos and Amazon reviews, you've got five minutes to spare for your own sanity.
