For those of you who like structure and repetition, it might bode well for you to find a couple spots where you know you can sink into your work and concentrate on your studies. For those of you who are all about trying something new and mixing up the routine, there’s nothing to say that you can’t try a completely different venue every time you have a chapter to read from your textbook or a paper to work on.
If you’re looking for some ideas of where to go, consult this list, and then get out there and study away!
1. Coffee shops
It may seem like a no-brainer. After all, weren’t coffee shops made for studying?? Coffee shops are a good pick for homework if you’re the type of person who doesn’t mind a bit of distraction and you like the occasional refreshment to go along with your studies.
Coffee shops are notorious for having all sorts of people going in and out of the door, playing music, and hosting a variety of chattering folks or even live music. If you like the buzz and bustle of people as a background to your studies, but you need the sound turned down a bit, consider bringing headphones and listening to your own soundtrack or even a bit of white noise. A pro of coffee shops is that if you have to study late, you have unlimited caffeine at your fingertips. Can’t go wrong there!
2. Library
Perhaps the most famous of study locations, the library is a prime spot on campus to get some work done. Not only do you have rows and rows of books—which you’ll probably need to reference at some point for that enormous paper you’re writing—but the library is probably the quietest place you’re going to find to do some work outside of your own dorm room.
Most college libraries have areas designated for studying, tables by the windows if you want a view, or a variety of other types of nooks and crannies. If you’re meeting with several people to study together or work on a group project, the library might not be your best pick unless there are designated study rooms with doors that close to the public.
3. Outside
If the weather is nice, consider doing your homework outdoors! Find a huge tree to lean on or a grassy knoll on the lawn where you can spread out a blanket, bring a picnic lunch, and get some reading done. Most college campuses have picnic tables, bench swings, or other types of areas with seating, and it can be really nice to get a little sun and fresh air. The outdoors can also help you clear your mind and you might feel inspired in a different way than you normally would have indoors.
4. Tutoring center
Most colleges and universities have free tutoring services that you absolutely should take advantage of. It doesn’t matter if you’re a stellar writer or not—take the time to have a college tutor read through one of your papers at some point and see if there are any suggestions or improvements you could make to your writing skills.
Most tutoring centers have several different tables or places to sit, and even if you don’t have an appointment to see a tutor, studying among a roomful of tutors will certainly be convenient if you have a question or need some help with something.
5. Your dorm room
If you’re looking for a quiet space to study, your dorm room is usually a great choice—unless, of course, you have a noisy roommate or two. There’s nothing that beats getting in your pajamas, making yourself a warm drink, and snuggling up in bed or on the couch to do a little reading. Just be sure to play some peppy music or head out into a common space if you think you might accidentally fall asleep!