This is for those days you know you'll be pulling an all nighter studying. Here are 16 must-haves for a night of studying at the library.
1. Snacks.
You can never have too many snacks! You will most definitely need snacks to fuel your brain when studying all night. I always keep my backpack loaded with a variety salty snacks, fruit, and candy. I sometimes even pack an extra sandwich if I know I will be gone for a long time.
2. Student ID (with money on it).
It's always a good idea to have your student ID with you at the library. You'll most likely need it to access the library at night. You will also probably need to print something while at the library, or buy extra snacks.
3. Index Cards.
Notecards are helpful when having to memorizing a set of terms or other things. I typically write the topic/word on one side, and the corresponding explanation/definition on the other side.
4. Planner.
My life is in my planner. I usually start off my study session by writing a list of everything I need to do in order of importance, and cross things off as I complete them. I also have all upcoming exams and assignment due dates written in my planner.
5. Headphones.
I don't know about you, but headphones are a must for me when studying, especially at the library. There can be a lot of distractions at the library, so headphones are super helpful. I like to listen to classical music when I study. Headphones are also helpful to listen to study materials that your professor may have posted or YouTube videos that correlate with your studying.
6. Comfortable clothes.
If you're going to be at the library all night, you want to be sure to dress comfortably. Nothing is worse than being uncomfortable when studying. Also, bring a sweatshirt because it can get pretty chilly at the library.
7. Laptop.
An absolute must! You'll need your laptop to complete assignments, research, and more. I also use my laptop to make Quizlets when there is too much material to make actual notecards. Quizlet is a great study tool where you can make flashcards of your study material and play all sorts of study games.
8. iPad or Tablet.
I use my iPad to view Quizlets, access ebooks and more.
9. Chargers for all devices.
This is definite must. One of the worst things is when your computer dies when you're at the library, and you don't have a charger with you.
10. Refillable water bottle.
Since you'll be at the library for hours, you will want to have water! Refillable water bottles are best so you can refill it when needed.
11. Pens, pencils & highlighters.
Make sure you have plenty! Pens of a variety of colors are especially helpful when making study guides and writing notes. Highlighters are useful when highlighted key things in notes. My favorite pens for studying are the Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pens.
12. Dry erase board, markers & eraser.
This is extremely helpful when studying for quizzes and exams. Sometimes, if you get a study room at the library, there will be a white board.
13. Gum.
To help keep you awake and alert. Dozing off is a bit harder with somthing super minty nearby.
14. CAFFEINE.
You'll want coffee or pop to keep you from falling asleep.
15. Class notes & books.
Lecture PowerPoints, handouts, handwritten notes, etc. Be sure to bring ALL class notes and necessary textbooks. If you have ebooks, those are even better to minimize lugging so much to the library.
16. Lots of paper.
Lined paper and printer paper - sometimes I get tired of writing on lined paper, so I will use plain printer paper. I use this to rewrite a summary of my notes to study from.
School can be really stressful. I hope this guide helps you when preparing for a night of studying at the library!
