We’ve all been there: no motivation, no idea where to go or how to start and a to-do list so long it could reach the floor. With finals and AP tests approaching, it is especially important that students find a place where they can focus fully on studying or doing homework.
There are many important factors that determine what makes a place a good study spot. Noise level, comfort, vibe, seating and more all play a part in that decision. For some people, certain aspects are more valuable than others, or entirely non-negotiable. If you still haven’t found your spot, here are some spots to take into consideration.
#1: Your Home
Your own home can be one of the most comfortable places to study, given that it is tailored to your personal likes and dislikes. However, it can be difficult to focus in the same place where you relax. For this reason, you may want to avoid studying on your bed and potentially even in your room. Instead, opt for an area that is less utilized and as undisturbed as possible, such as a dining room.
“I like to be in a place where I can control my environment, which means I don’t have a lot of distractions,” senior Anika Amladi said. “I can make sure that there’s not a lot of noise around me or too many people around that could be potential distractions, so I can focus on my work, get it done and be as productive as possible.”
#2: Coffee Shops
Coffee shops are one of the most aesthetically pleasing places to work. When you inevitably reach that point in your study session where you need a boost, you can easily grab some coffee or a sweet treat. Just the aroma of coffee may be enough to keep you going. If you prefer to study in groups, coffee shops are well-suited environments, so long as you can actually find a seat.
“If I’m working with someone, or if I’m doing busy work that doesn’t need a lot of attention, then I don’t mind being in a setting with a little noise,” Amladi said.
#3: Parks
What’s not to love about some cool breeze and natural light? Studying outside can be highly grounding and centering, putting you in the right mindset for the task. There are plenty of local parks, some even within walking distance of Oak Park High School. Bring some sunscreen if there’s no shade available, and steer clear of busy parks on the weekend if you get distracted easily.
“I think that it’s [studying] more enjoyable to be outside,” senior Tess Murray said. “The fresh air is more relaxing, and also, you feel more motivated.”
Honorable Mention: Booksellers/Libraries
If you’re the type of person who needs quiet to concentrate, libraries and book stores are one of the only places where you will get complete silence. Although the Oak Park library can get loud and crowded right after school, it’s generally peaceful at most other times. The library could be a good option for you if you have a free period and need to stay on campus. It’s a cliche, and my number one study spot for a reason.
Honorable Mention: Teachers’ Classroom
Your brain has been trained to work when you’re at school since you were five years old, so studying here may come more naturally. Stay during support time and go to the room for the class you are studying. Not only will it keep your mind engaged, but it also provides you with the opportunity to ask the teacher any questions that may arise or connect with peers who are in the same position as you. Just be sure to pick a seat that’s far from the distraction of people constantly coming and going, or risk being unable to get any studying in.
These spots are all great options, so it may be best to try a few different places to understand what you need from a study space before committing entirely. Above all else, don’t go to that place just to end up scrolling on your phone.
After choosing your spot, don’t forget to make the idea of studying as interesting and fun as much as you can. Romanticize the action by playing some pump up music or grabbing your favorite snack on the way. All of this combined should make it easier to motivate yourself to switch and stay in the study mood.
