Creating a Distraction-free Nursing Study Space

Creating a space to study is one of the most important and also one of the most neglected steps in going to school. While in nursing school I used my kitchen table to study, and remember feeling a little frazzled and unsettled when studying. Oftentimes I would stop studying to wash the dishes, clean, or write a shopping list. Now that I am in graduate school I made sure to create a quiet space with a desk that is designated only for school and studying. There is has been such a huge difference in my grades because of this little step.

What is important about creating a studying space?

Creating a study space creates the scene for your study time. By setting aside a distinct and separate space specifically for this task, your brain will remember what its role is in that environment. Hopefully you will get to the point when you sit down in that space of knowing that “this is my time to study” and let all of your other thoughts fade away.

What should a study space have?

Ideally it should have a desk, a comfortable (but not too comfortable!) chair, good lighting, and the resources you need to study (books, pencils, computer, etc.) It should be personalized with photos and symbols that may motivate you towards your end goal.

What should it not have?

Distractions. If at all possible avoid television, radio, and internet in your study space. You may even go so far as to turn off your phone and put a sign on the door letting friends and family know that it is study time. If Facebook or the internet in general is a big distraction for you try to give yourself “internet breaks.” Every half hour give yourself five minutes to cruise through your email or check your Facebook updates.

I hope some of these tips will help you in your college journey. Sometimes the hardest step in studying is just sitting down to do it!

How is your study space organized? Do you feel as though you have eliminated all of the distractions?