Whether you’re studying for your high school exams, churning out essays or starting your thesis, having a dedicated study haven is a necessity. If you usually spend your time studying at school, uni or the library and longing to be in the comfort of your own home, it’s time to set up a comfortable study space.
Studying effectively requires a quiet, peaceful space where you can focus, learn and excel. In this blog, we will explore practical tips and strategies to help you create the perfect study haven.
How to Set Up a Study Space
Choosing the right spot for your study space is integral. First up, you’ll want to make sure you have a comfortable spot that is dedicated only to studying (bed is not an option!). Where this is depends on your home and the kind of space you have. Choose a quiet area in your home where you can minimise distractions and interruptions, whether it’s a spare room, the corner of your bedroom, your home office or a dedicated study nook in your living room.
Avoid Distractions: It’s important to go for a space with minimal distractions, away from noise.
Natural Light: Opt for somewhere with natural light, which helps to enhance mood and concentration. Lastly, make sure it’s comfortable.
Comfortable and Practical Office Furniture: Invest in a comfortable desk and ergonomic office chair. Go for one that provides adequate support when sitting for long periods of time. Consider the size of the room and choose furniture that fits well without overwhelming the space. Also, take into account if you need a desk with drawers or extra surface space for storage. There are plenty of desks available to suit your needs, including desks with pull-out drawers to store your keyboard, ones with pull-over hutches and ones with shelves.
Make it Comfortable: Ensure your study space is comfortable! If your chair isn’t supportive, add cushions for extra comfort and keep a throw blanket nearby for added comfort during long study sessions. Keep a comfy lounge chair or even exercise equipment like a yoga mat nearby for breaks.
Listen to Ambient Music or White Noise: Ditch Netflix and experiment with background noise that helps you concentrate. Ambient music, instrumental tracks or even white noise can drown out distractions and create a conducive study atmosphere.
Organise and Declutter
‘A messy desk is a messy mind’ is a popular phrase, and with good reason! With too much clutter around, you risk feeling overwhelmed and stressed. An organised study space will help promote a clear mind and improved focus.
Remove Unnecessary Items: Move away from any distractions or items not directly related to your studies.
Organise Study Materials: Use office supplies and desk accessories like folders, trays, or shelves to keep your books, notebooks and stationery neatly organised and easily accessible.
Digital Organisation: Organisation is not limited to your external surroundings. If you’re using a device for studying, keep your computer desktop clutter-free and create folders to sort your digital files and documents.
Keep a To-Do List: If you like, create a to-do list outlining the tasks you need to complete. Breaking down study goals into smaller, manageable tasks will help you maintain your focus and give you a sense of progress. Stick it to your wall or on a pinboard, or keep it nearby to make sure you’re on track.
How to Make an Aesthetic Study Space
Add a touch of character to your study space by adding personal touches. Decorate with motivational quotes if that’s your thing. Adorn the walls with wall art you love or plants to create an environment that reflects your style. When we spend time in a space we love, we’re more motivated to stay there. If you’re working in a study space you like, you’re more likely to keep productive and stay focused.
Bring in Inspiration: Surround yourself with what inspires and motivates you. Hang up a vision board with your goals, and display quotes or photos on the wall that remind you of your aspirations.
Use Colour Psychology: Decorate your space with colours that promote focus and productivity. Opt for calming cool and neutral tones like light blues, greens, or beige and soft greys for a soothing environment. Alternatively, add pops of energising colours like yellow or orange for a boost of motivation. Most of all, choose colours that make you feel motivated.
Incorporate Natural Elements: Bring more nature to your study space by adding plants or flowers. Research suggests that being around greenery can improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
How to Create a Study Space Without a Desk
If you don’t have the space for a desk, no need to worry. You can use your kitchen bench, dining table or even a foldable table. If this is the case for you, make sure you’re as comfortable and free from distractions as possible and consider buying a laptop stand for optimal comfort
Keep the space around you tidy and clutter-free. If you’re in a shared space, consider noise-cancelling headphones.
How to Create a Study Space in a Bedroom
Many of us, particularly students, won’t have the luxury of an entire house to choose the best spot for studying. If you need to study in your bedroom, there are plenty of ways to make it comfortable and distraction-free. Make sure you use a desk and a comfortable chair. Keep your room as clean and tidy as possible. Research shows that studying or working in bed can affect your quality of sleep, so it’s best to work at your desk.
How to Enjoy Studying at Home
We all know that studying can be a drag. By creating your own study haven at home, you can enhance your focus, enjoyment, and productivity. Remember, the key is to make your study space somewhere you want to be. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to establishing a study space that cultivates productivity and helps you make the most of your study sessions.
