Are you looking for the best study affirmations to help motivate you, boost your confidence, and improve your focus? Read on for the most powerful study affirmations for students!

What are affirmations? Affirmations are short, positive statements that you can repeat to yourself like a mantra. You can say affirmations out loud, repeat them mentally, or write them down. An idea I also really like is choosing your favorite affirmation and setting it as your phone’s lock screen or your laptop’s wallpaper. This is a great way to ensure you see and absorb your affirmation all the time.

Do study affirmations work? Yes, study affirmations really work! Of course, you still have to do the actual studying. You can’t just repeat affirmations without paying attention in class, taking notes, or studying for exams, and expect to automatically make As.

The real power of affirmations is subtly altering your subconscious beliefs. Affirmations can change the way you think and how you approach studying.

Affirmations can reduce feelings of negativity, anxiety, fear, or self-doubt that you have around studying and exams. They can help you reframe studying from a stressful chore you “have to” do to a postitive experience you “get to” have.

If you’re wondering how to manifest for studies and exams, affirmations are a great place to start.

Read on for the best study affirmations you can use to change your outlook, improve your concentration and focus, reduce your fears, boost your confidence, and set yourself up for success.

Best Study Affirmations

1. Studying comes easily and naturally to me.
2. I thank my mind for its ability to always absorb the material I am studying.
3. It’s such a privilege to get to study.
4. I am always well-prepared for exams.
5. This study session is a building block for my future success.
6. Making As on exams comes easily to me.
7. I absorb information quickly and retain it with ease.
8. Studying is a joyful process I am privileged to enjoy.
9. I am becoming more intelligent every day.
10. My future self thanks me for studying right now.
11. I have an excellent memory and can always retain what I study.
12. Knowledge flows to me easily and with abundance.
13. I thank my brain for its ability to study and ace exams.
14. I trust in my abilities to succeed on this exam.
15. Studying gets to be fun and easy for me.
16. I learn, comprehend, and retain information with ease.
17. I release my anxiety and fear and embrace concentration and relaxation.
18. This exam is another step in achieving my dream future life.
19. My mind is sharp and I am an excellent student.
20. I am capable of learning and mastering any subject.
21. Every day, I am improving and growing smarter.
22. I am proud of the effort I put into my studies.
23. My hard work today will pay off tomorrow.
24. I am fully focused and ready to absorb new information.
25. I have everything I need to succeed in my studies.
26. I trust in my ability to perform well on tests.
27. I am confident in my memory and retention skills.
28. I can concentrate fully on the task at hand.
29. Distractions are temporary; my focus is strong.
30. I enjoy the process of learning something new.
31. I am an academic genius.
32. I love how good I am at studying and acing exams.
33. Making all As gets to be easy and fun for me.
34. I am always prepared and relaxed for my exams.
35. I love gaining knowledge which helps me reach my full potential.
36. Difficult topics are opportunities to expand my knowledge.
37. I embrace the challenge of learning and overcoming obstacles.
38. I am calm and collected while studying.
39. I release stress and focus on doing my best on this exam.
40. I breathe deeply, relax, and approach my studies with clarity.
41. I trust the process and let go of unnecessary pressure for studying.
42. I am fully prepared and ready to ace my exams.
43. I remember everything I study and apply it effortlessly.
44. Exams are an opportunity to showcase my knowledge.
45. I remain calm and focused during exams because this is what I’ve prepared for.
46. I’m so thankful for the opportunity to show what I’ve learned.
47. I always achieve the highest scores on exams.
48. Each minute I dedicate to studying moves me closer to success.
49. Every topic I study enriches my mind and future.
50. I love discovering new ideas and perspectives.
51. My curiosity fuels my desire to learn.
52. The knowledge I gain today will serve me forever.
53. My success on this exam is inevitable.
54. I choose to have a positive attitude toward studying.
55. My education is a gift, and I am grateful for it.
56. I am the creator of my academic and personal success.
57. I am becoming the best version of myself through studying.
58. Getting good grades comes naturally to me.
59. I look forward to seeing the amazing results of my exams.
60. I’m amazed at my sharp memory and how well I study.

Study Affirmations for Students

This guide showed you the best study affirmations for students.

Studying is something that can cause a lot of stress and negative emotions. However, it doesn’t have to be that way! One of the best things you can do for yourself is to change your attitude around studying and reframe it as a positive experience that is helping you to succeed and achieve your goals.

You truly can rewire your brain this way to view studying as a privilege and something to look forward to, rather than something you always dread.

These study affirmations can also help you feel calm and prepared when it’s time to actually sit down and take your exams, rather than feeling anxious and nervous.

I hope you found some study affirmations that resonate with you from this list. Good luck and happy studying!

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• 9 Essential Study Skills To Study Smarter, Not Harder
• 15 Student Desk Essentials For The Best Study Space
• How To Actually Stop Hating Studying & Become A Motivated Student
• 5 Common Myths About Studying That Are Ruining Your Productivity
• 50 Positive Affirmations For College Students

The post 60 Powerful Study Affirmations For Students appeared first on Sincerely Students.

These 50 inspiring quotes will motivate you to study hard and achieve your goals!

Studying can be a daunting task, especially when motivation wanes. We all experience those moments when the last thing we want to do is hit the books.

Yet, it’s during these times that finding the right source of inspiration can make all the difference. Quotes have the power to encapsulate wisdom in a few words, offering encouragement and perspective.

Whether you’re a student struggling to stay focused or need some encouragement to keep going, these 50 study motivation quotes are here to inspire you.

My tip is to choose your favorite motivational quote from this list and write it somewhere that you can see it often, such as on a sticky note next to your desk. Or you can use a free graphic design tool like Canva to design a desktop background for your computer with the quote of your choice so you see it all the time.

Here’s a look at the best study motivation quotes for students:

The Best Study Motivation Quotes

1. “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” — Steve Jobs
2. “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” — Albert Schweitzer
3. “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” — Eleanor Roosevelt
4. “Don’t watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going.” — Sam Levenson
5. “The expert in anything was once a beginner.” — Helen Hayes
6. “The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” — Walt Disney
7. “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.” — Zig Ziglar
8. “Don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.” — John Wooden
9. “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” — Robert Collier
10. “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” — Mark Twain
11. “What seems to us as bitter trials are often blessings in disguise.” — Oscar Wilde
12. “The harder you work for something, the greater you’ll feel when you achieve it.” — Unknown
13. “Success doesn’t come to you, you’ve got to go to it.” — Marva Collins
14. “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” — Malcolm X
15. “Study without desire spoils the memory, and it retains nothing that it takes in.” — Leonardo da Vinci
16. “Genius is 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration.” — Thomas Edison
17. “Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence.” — Abigail Adams
18. “The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.” — B.B. King
19. “Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” — Theodore Roosevelt
20. “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” — C.S. Lewis
21. “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt
22. “Strive for progress, not perfection.” — Unknown
23. “Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere.” — Chinese Proverb
24. “Don’t let yesterday take up too much of today.” — Will Rogers
25. “It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” — Confucius
26. “The best way to predict your future is to create it.” — Abraham Lincoln
27. “Procrastination is the thief of time.” — Edward Young
28. “A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination, and hard work.” — Colin Powell
29. “If you can dream it, you can do it.” — Walt Disney
30. “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” — Arthur Ashe
31. “You don’t have to be perfect to be amazing.” — Unknown
32. “Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.” — Joseph Addison
33. “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” — Lao Tzu
34. “Success is not in what you have, but who you are.” — Bo Bennett
35. “Work hard in silence, let your success be your noise.” — Frank Ocean
36. “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela
37. “The purpose of education is to replace an empty mind with an open one.” — Malcolm Forbes
38. “Push yourself, because no one else is going to do it for you.” — Unknown
39. “Your time is limited, don’t waste it living someone else’s life.” — Steve Jobs
40. “Dream big and dare to fail.” — Norman Vaughan
41. “Success is how high you bounce when you hit bottom.” — George S. Patton
42. “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” — John Dewey
43. “The beautiful thing about learning is nobody can take it away from you.” — B.B. King
44. “Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.” — Zig Ziglar
45. “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” — Dr. Seuss
46. “Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.” — Henry David Thoreau
47. “Learning never exhausts the mind.” — Leonardo da Vinci
48. “What we learn with pleasure we never forget.” — Alfred Mercier
49. “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.” — Margaret Fuller
50. “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

Which of these study motivation quotes is your favorite?

The Best Study Motivation Quotes

These quotes are aimed at inspiring and motivating students in their academic pursuits.

These quotes serve as powerful reminders of the value of education, the importance of persistence, and the transformative power of learning.

Whether you’re facing a tough study session or feeling overwhelmed by academic challenges, let these quotes inspire you to push forward, embrace the journey, and achieve your goals.

Remember, the pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong adventure, and with the right mindset and determination, you can conquer any academic mountain. Happy studying!

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• How To Effectively Remember Everything You Study
• 5 Common Myths About Studying That Are Ruining Your Productivity
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• 9 Essential Study Skills To Study Smarter, Not Harder
• 60 Powerful Study Affirmations For Students

The post 50 Study Motivation Quotes For Students appeared first on Sincerely Students.

These are the best foods to boost your brain power during your next study session!

When it comes to studying effectively, many factors come into play. A quiet environment, a well-organized study plan, and sufficient rest are crucial.

However, one often overlooked element is nutrition.

The brain, like any other part of the body, needs the right kind of fuel to function optimally. Consuming the right foods can enhance cognitive function, improve memory, and increase focus.

Here are the 20 best foods to include in your diet for studying success.

1. Blueberries

Blueberries are renowned for their high levels of antioxidants, which protect the brain from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. They also contain vitamins C and K and fiber. Studies suggest that blueberries can improve memory and cognitive function, making them an excellent snack while studying.

2. Fatty Fish

Fatty fish like salmon, trout, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are crucial for brain health, supporting cognitive function and reducing mental decline. Omega-3s help build cell membranes in the brain and reduce inflammation, promoting better learning and memory retention.

3. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants, which can enhance memory and slow down age-related mental decline. The caffeine in dark chocolate can also boost concentration and focus, making it a perfect treat during long study sessions. Aim for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for the best benefits.

4. Broccoli

Broccoli is packed with powerful plant compounds, including antioxidants. It’s also rich in vitamin K, which is known to support brain health. Vitamin K is essential for forming sphingolipids, a type of fat that’s densely packed into brain cells. Regular consumption of broccoli may help improve cognitive function and brainpower.

5. Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper. These minerals are essential for brain health. Magnesium is vital for learning and memory, zinc for nerve signaling, iron for cognitive function, and copper for controlling nerve signals. Snacking on pumpkin seeds can help keep your brain sharp.

6. Oranges

Oranges are well-known for their high vitamin C content. Vitamin C is a key factor in preventing mental decline and is essential for brain health. It helps protect the brain against free radicals and supports overall cognitive function. A single medium-sized orange provides all the vitamin C you need in a day.

7. Eggs

Eggs are a great source of several nutrients tied to brain health, including vitamins B6 and B12, folate, and choline. Choline is particularly important for brain health as it helps produce acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in mood and memory. Regular consumption of eggs can support brain function and improve memory retention.

8. Green Tea

Green tea contains caffeine and L-theanine, which can enhance brain function. Caffeine improves alertness, while L-theanine promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety. This combination can enhance overall brain function, improving memory and focus during study sessions.

9. Walnuts

Walnuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which can improve cognitive function. They are particularly high in DHA, a type of Omega-3 fatty acid, which is essential for brain health. Regular consumption of walnuts can help improve memory, concentration, and overall brain function.

10. Beets

Beets are high in nitrates, which help increase blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive function and mental performance. They are also rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can protect the brain from damage and support overall brain health.

11. Avocados

Avocados are rich in healthy fats, specifically monounsaturated fats, which support healthy blood flow to the brain. They are also packed with vitamins K, C, and B, and folate. These nutrients can improve cognitive function, memory, and concentration, making avocados a brain-boosting superfood.

12. Spinach

Spinach and other leafy greens are packed with nutrients like folate, iron, and vitamins A and C. Folate is crucial for brain function and emotional health, while iron supports cognitive development. The antioxidants in spinach also help protect the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation.

13. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is rich in protein, probiotics, and essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin B12. Protein helps support neurotransmitter function, while probiotics promote a healthy gut-brain axis, which is crucial for cognitive function and mental health. A daily serving of Greek yogurt can help keep your brain sharp and focused.

14. Turmeric

Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Curcumin can cross the blood-brain barrier, boosting brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is linked to improved brain function and reduced risk of brain diseases. Adding turmeric to your diet can support brain health and cognitive function.

15. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a whole grain that provides sustained energy and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals that support brain health, such as vitamin B, iron, and magnesium. Starting your day with a bowl of oatmeal can enhance focus and concentration throughout your study sessions.

16. Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds are a great source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects the brain from oxidative stress. They also contain magnesium, protein, and healthy fats, which support brain function and cognitive health. Including sunflower seeds in your diet can help improve memory and overall brain performance.

17. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that helps protect brain cells from damage. They also contain vitamins A and C, which support brain health. Regular consumption of tomatoes can help improve cognitive function and protect against neurodegenerative diseases.

18. Lentils

Lentils are a rich source of plant-based protein, iron, and folate. Folate is essential for brain development and function, while iron supports cognitive function and mental alertness. Adding lentils to your diet can provide the nutrients needed for optimal brain health and academic performance.

19. Blackberries

Blackberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. They help improve brain function by protecting brain cells from oxidative stress and reducing inflammation. The high fiber content also supports gut health, which is linked to better cognitive function.

20. Pomegranate

Pomegranates are loaded with antioxidants, which help protect the brain from oxidative damage. Drinking pomegranate juice or eating the seeds can improve memory and cognitive function. The anti-inflammatory properties of pomegranates also support overall brain health.

Conclusion

These are the best foods for studying.

Incorporating these 20 brain-boosting foods into your diet can significantly enhance your studying capabilities. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals is essential for maintaining optimal brain function.

By fueling your brain with the right nutrients, you can improve your memory, focus, and cognitive performance, leading to academic success.

So next time you sit down to study, consider reaching for one of these brain-healthy best foods for studying to give yourself the highest chance at success.

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• How To Effectively Remember Everything You Study
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• 60 Powerful Study Affirmations For Students

The post 20 Best Foods For Studying appeared first on Sincerely Students.

Whether you’re taking comprehensive notes from a textbook or jotting down information from a fast-paced lecture, you must learn how to take effective notes that will actually help you after creating them.

In this post, I’ll walk you through my note-taking process and the key points I try to remember while taking notes. With these 7 tips, you’ll transform your note-taking game!

Note-Taking Supplies

Before you actually begin the note-taking process, there are some essentials you need. And depending on your preference for digital vs paper notes, there are different tools for you to use. 

Digital Notes

If you like to type your notes (though I recommend hand-written ones over typed ones), then Google Docs, Microsoft Word, etc are all perfectly good choices. They’re simple and intuitive, and they have all the features you’ll need to type extensive notes.

But if you like to hand-write your notes on an iPad or tablet, there are a few very similar choices out there that all have their pros and cons.

• GoodNotes: the virtual notebook.

GoodNotes is basically a notebook on your iPad. You can create notebooks, add pages, and take notes. GoodNotes provides a lot of features for your pen customization, which is considered to be more powerful than Notability. However, it lacks intuitive organization & search tools like Notability (after all, it is structured like a traditional notebook).

• Notability: the powerful whiteboard.

This is the app I use. Notability is very similar to GoodNotes, but its organizational structure is different. Instead of organizing by “notebooks” or folders, Notability organizes by file (each file of notes you create). This is more intuitive for many students. Another fan-favorite feature is the recording feature; students can record lectures while taking notes, and they are automatically attached to the page for later reference.

Paper Notes

If you prefer taking physical paper notes, you’ll need more than an app. Here are three of my most-used and most-appreciated tools:

• Colored pens

When I used traditional notebooks (I use an iPad now), I loved to color-code my notes and subjects with colored pens and highlighters. For example, I write all the titles of my science notes in green, and the titles of my math notes in red.

• Mildliners

Highlighters make up the other half of my color-coding system, and Mildliners are my go-to ones. I use them to decorate my notes, highlight key terms, and emphasize important ideas. It’s important to choose high-quality highlighters (like Mildliners) so you don’t accidentally ruin your notes.

• Sticky notes

Sticky notes can come in super handy in many cases. Taking a break from the textbook? Use a sticky note as a bookmark. Need more space in your notebook? Use a sticky note and write on top of it. Need to remember what pages important chapters are on? Use sticky notes to tab them.

Preview The Content

You should never dive straight into a piece of text and begin taking notes right away. If you’re taking notes from a textbook, preview the chapter before you begin.

Go through the table of contents for that chapter or section, and preview the main ideas you’ll be studying. You can also create a checklist of the key terms that are listed to make sure you mention all of them in your notes.

Similarly, if you’re taking notes during a lecture, come to class prepared. Go through the course lecture guide before class and put them down in your notes. Create a “template” so that all you need to do during the lecture is to fill in your notes.

Previewing proves extremely effective in helping your brain retain information and organize it. So try it out!

Organize Your Notes

Though it may seem easy to simply cram all your notes in a giant block of information, this will be no help for you in the future when you come back to review. Instead, organize your notes with headings and subheadings.

Whether you’re taking Cornell notes, outline notes, or making a mindmap, clearly differentiating between various sections will make it much easier to go back and review them.

If you’re taking digital notes, use the various default tools to change the format, font size, font style, etc of the headings and subheadings.

If you’re taking hand-written notes, use different colors, highlighters, underlines, or simply space (skip a line for each new section) to clearly organize your notes.

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Write Efficiently

This tip applies specifically useful when you’re taking notes during a fast-paced lecture. In these scenarios, you must be an aggressive note-taker.

You have no time to choose the perfect highlighter color or draw the most elaborate picture– don’t worry about the aesthetics of your notes. Instead, focus on capturing the most important pieces of information.

In addition, use tools to help you quickly and accurately take notes. If you are taking digital notes, use symbols (arrows, punctuation marks, math symbols), abbreviations, and other tools (like the automatic bullet points for outlines).

If you’re hand-writing notes, you’re free to draw and use any symbol. You can circle and star information, point one chunk to another, draw quick diagrams as supplement information, etc.

Write Effectively

In addition to taking notes efficiently, you must know how to do so effectively; you must determine what information is worth writing down. Something I swear by is to think before you write. 

Sometimes, what you’re reading or listening to is something you’ve already mastered. If this is the case, there is no need to write a full definition for it. You can simply connect it to whatever it has a connection to.

Other times, what you’re reading makes absolutely no sense. If this happens, don’t just copy the textbook word for word into your notes. Instead, think over it and try to figure out what it means. Once you’ve done that, you can write your own definition down; this ensures that you understand the concept in the moment and in the future when you review your notes.

If you’re still unsure of what to write in your notes, ask yourself these questions:

• Have I mastered this already?
• Is this as important and relevant as I think?
• Does this make sense to me?
• How can I reword it to make more sense to me?
• What connections can I draw from this that will help me understand?

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Review Notes

Remember how important previewing is? Well, the review is just as important (maybe even more important) than the preview.

After taking your beautiful, useful, and maybe jam-packed notes, it’s time to review them. Immediately after note-taking, quickly review everything you’ve written to make sure you didn’t miss any key terms or concepts. You should also make sure you understand everything and that all the connections that should be there are there.

A day or two after taking your notes– or before the next class– review your notes again. This time, read through them carefully and “relearn” everything. You might even come across some AHA! moments and add to your notes.

The revision will help you engrain the information in your head as well as identify new connections or past mistakes. It’s a great way to ensure the notes you took will come into use!

Compare & Discuss Notes

After many years in school, one of the most important study skills I learned is to discuss with others. Study groups aren’t just for test prep and late-night cramming! Even just after taking notes, you can spend some time with a study group to compare them.

When comparing notes with your study group, you should do the following:

• Go through each section and discuss what you think the most important takeaway is. These might differ between each person (which is okay!), and when that happens, be sure to respect and listen to their explanation. It might help you learn something new!
• Ask questions about any concept you didn’t understand or thought was hard to grasp. Someone may have the same concern, and someone else may be able to answer the question for you.
• Discuss the connections outside of the text/lecture that you made. You can talk about the ways you believe this information relates to your life or to modern society; making outside connections help consolidate the information.
• Update your notes with new information, questions, diagrams, etc.

Conclusion

And that’s it! With these note-taking strategies and tips, you’ll start taking notes like a pro in no time. Leave a comment with your favorite note-taking app or tool!

If you’re looking for more posts like this, check these out:

• 7 Lessons For Academic Success In High School
• 15 Student Desk Essentials For The Best Study Space
• 5 Common Myths About Studying That Are Ruining Your Productivity

The post 7 Effective Note-Taking Strategies For Students appeared first on Sincerely Students.

Statistics show that having an organized desk improves productivity by 84%! That’s almost double the amount of work you can complete in the same time period – why not take advantage of this simple productivity trick?

Having an organized and welcoming desk will make studying and working more bearable. It makes sense: make your desk look and feel appealing, and you’ll enjoy sitting (or standing, if you own a standing desk) there for longer!

I’ve changed my own desk setup many times, but some elements have stayed constant. In this post, I’m going to reveal the 15 essentials I always keep at my desk. Hopefully, they’ll help you become more comfortable and productive at your desk, too!

Display Monitor

If you’re tired of straining your eyes to look at a laptop screen, a display monitor might be the perfect investment for you. Just connect your laptop to the monitor, usually through an HDMI cable, and you’ll have a larger secondary screen to use.

Note the difference between a PC or desktop computer and a display monitor. PCs and desktop computers are large and are independent of your laptop. Display monitors don’t function on their own, and they must be connected to your laptop– it simply acts as an extension of your laptop screen.

Having a display monitor helps me multitask online, and it relieves a lot of eye and neck strain due to its size and height. I have the Samsung 390 Series 24” curved monitor, and I do recommend it, but you can find many different sizes and models online.

Laptop Stand

If you’re not ready to invest in a display monitor yet, but you still want to relieve some neck and back strain that appears as you bend over the laptop, a laptop stand would be a great alternative (I actually own both!).

A laptop stand elevates your screen to eye level so that you can straighten your back while working at your desk. This ensures better posture and a healthier body in the long run.

There are many different laptop stands on Amazon, and I own this one. It’s incredibly sturdy and has great ventilation. However, due to its shape, it’s not portable. If you’d prefer something smaller, I recommend this foldable laptop stand.

Keyboard + Mouse

One inconvenience of laptop stands is that once your computer is elevated, it’s very difficult to type comfortably on the laptop’s attached keyboard. For this reason, I suggest investing in a Bluetooth keyboard (and mouse) as well.

The Logitech K380 keyboard + Pebble mouse pair are one of the most popular duos for students due to their size and versatility. The keyboard is a comfortable size with circular keys, and the mouse has very soft clicks, perfect for working in quiet places.

One disadvantage of this keyboard is that, if you’re an Apple MacBook user, it may take some time to get used to the layout of the Logitech keyboard (the function, control, option, and command keys are in different places).

If this is a dealbreaker for you, consider the Apple Magic Keyboard, which is more expensive, but pairs perfectly with the MacBook.

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Adjustable Lamp

Good lighting is integral to your desk setup. Having a bright setting will make reading and writing a lot easier, protecting your eyes from straining too much.

I own an adjustable lamp, similar to this one on Amazon. I can move it easily, changing the angle and height of the lamp to shine in different places. I can also adjust the brightness and warmth of the light, which is helpful because I study at different times of the day; a dim, warm light is great for late-night studying, while a bright, cool light works better for the day.

To choose the perfect lamp for you, determine how much space you have on your desk or in your room. If you don’t have much space, a clamp-on lamp would be better than a desk lamp. Also, make sure to check if it allows for multiple brightness and temperature settings!

Digital Clock

It’s very convenient to have a visible digital clock near you while studying to keep track of time. This can help you know when to keep studying, when to take a break, when you should log in for a meeting, etc.

While you can also use your phone or computer to check the time, I find that neither is as effective as a digital clock. First, I like to keep my phone away while studying and working. In addition, the clock on my laptop is very small, and when my tabs are on full screen, it’s not visible at all. Having a digital clock available at first glance solves these problems.

You may have seen this LED digital clock on TikTok – it works fine, and I think it’s a very nice addition to your space. But if you’re not hanging it up on the wall, this clock will take up quite some space on your desk.

I own a much smaller clock – the IKEA Klockis. This is a battery-powered, multifunctional clock/thermometer/alarm/timer. Simply flip the clock over to one side, and the function will change. I use this not only to check the time, but also to set a Pomodoro timer for myself while studying. 

Desk Organizer

If you feel that your desk is too cluttered, a desk organizer can help you maximize your space and keep it clean. Often, we end up with extra items like notepads, paperclips, notebooks, and other miscellaneous things (and we don’t even know where they came from).

If this sounds like your situation, an organizer like this one (the same type as mine) could work great. You’ll be able to put small items on both levels, as well as stack things like pen organizers on the top level. On my Instagram, you can see how I use my desk organizer:

If you have more papers and folders than small, miscellaneous items, a simple paper tray like this could help:

Pen Organizer

If you’re like me, you might have an abundance of pens: pencils, colored pens, highlighters… you name it. To make sure you’re not cluttering your space, and that you will be able to find the correct pen when you need it, use a pen organizer!

If you simply need somewhere to store a handful of pens (and don’t feel the need to separate or categorize them), something like a mason jar or mug would work.

If you have different types of pens (for example, different colors, different pen sizes, and different functions), use a designated pen organizer. I use one like this, and this product comes in a set of 3 organizers and 2 cups– perfect for someone who needs both storage and organization!

RELATED POST: How To Transform The Way You Study In 7 Days

Sticky Notes

Sticky notes are one of my favorite places to write down quick reminders. While I prefer to make daily plans and make full to-do lists on my iPad or laptop (Todoist is a super helpful app), I use sticky notes for 1) long-term to-dos and 2) ultra-important reminders.

If I have long-term tasks (like an assignment, project deadline, payment, etc), I write it down on a sticky note and place it on my wall, above my desk. This ensures that every time I sit down at my desk, I am reminded to complete or work on those tasks.

Though a digital plan is helpful, having a to-do list in plain sight is by far the most effective way for me to remember to complete those tasks. So if you tend to forget your to-do’s, try writing them down on a sticky note and placing it somewhere visible!

Earbuds/Headphones

Headphones are essential if you’re studying in a loud environment. If you have roommates or family members who tend to make enough noise to distract you, consider investing in some noise-canceling headphones or earbuds. 

I recommend high-quality ones that won’t feel uncomfortable even after wearing them for a long time, such as the Bose QuietComfort 35 (I actually prefer these over the new QuietComfort 45, because they’re more comfortable around the ears) or QuietComfort Earbuds.

Both may be a little outside of a student’s budget, but if you’re seriously considering investing in a pair of headphones, these are some of the best you can get.

Blue Light Glasses

These days, it’s almost impossible to not be on your computer or phone for long hours as a student. To ensure minimal damage to your eyes, get some blue light-blocking glasses!

If you already wear prescription glasses, consider getting blue light-blocking prescription lenses. If you don’t currently wear glasses, you can get any non-prescription pair online. I have these SOJOS Cat Eye glasses, which are super affordable yet chic.

Remember to practice other protective methods as well, such as going outside often to relax your eyes, and massaging them when they feel strained. If your eyes get dry easily, also use eyedrops!

Motivating Decor

I love decorating my desk, and surrounding myself with the right pieces of decor can motivate me to be more productive. If you want to and are able to, brainstorm some ways to decorate your desk!

The easiest way to decorate is to print out pictures and stick them on the wall near your desk. The pictures can be of celebrities you look up to, affirmations you like to repeat, decorative posters with motivating mantras on them, and pictures from your mood board.

There are many, many, pictures online, especially on Pinterest.

Hand Lotion

Especially as the weather changes, our skin gets dry very easily. And since you’re probably using your hands a lot– to write, to type, to do everything– it’s important to keep them moisturized and healthy.

Keep some hand lotion at your desk, and whenever you feel your hands getting dry, generously lather some lotion on! You can also implement this as part of your routine– before starting homework, put on some lotion.

Plants

Plants are a great way to liven up your workspace. Having some greenery in a serious environment can make it look more “alive,” making you feel less trapped if you’re confined to your desk for long hours.

Additionally, if you have real plants, they can help circulate the air around your desk (as plants do)! But if you don’t have the time and effort to dedicate to taking care of real plants – I understand, me too – fake plants work perfectly.

You can get potted plants to put on your desk, above your desk on shelves (maybe on hanging shelves?), or hanging vines. You can even get flowers to stick in a small vase!

Snacks

I’ve mentioned in a previous post how you, in general, shouldn’t keep snacks at your desk. I still stand by that statement– chips, crumbly cookies, sticky foods, and anything that will cause a mess should stay away from your desk.

However, some snacks are totally okay. For me, they are motivators (a “reward” when I finish a task), and, well, a snack for when I’m getting hungry while studying. Here are some snacks I sometimes have with me at my desk:

• Grapes
• Cut fruit
• Small packs of gummies
• Cheese
• Popcorn

Remember to not oversnack – you shouldn’t be having full meals at your desk!

RELATED POST: 20 Best Foods for Studying

Water Bottle

Last but not least, remember to stay hydrated! Keep a water bottle at your desk so you always drink enough water, even while you’re focused on an assignment.

If you feel that a cup isn’t enough for your study session, and you’d like to stay at your desk the entire time, keep a large water bottle with you. However, a cup also has its advantages – it forces you to take a break from your screen and walk to fill the cup again. So, the choice is yours!

BONUS: Ultimate Student Planner

I created the Ultimate Student Planner for students like myself. It’s the perfect way to stay organized as a student!

Conclusion

And there you have it, the 15 desk essentials you need in your workspace. I own some variations of all of these products mentioned, and I highly recommend every single one of them.

These are the best desk essentials for students guaranteed to make you more productive.

If you’re looking for more posts like this, here are a few I recommend:

• How To Effectively Remember Everything You Study
• 9 Essential Study Skills To Study Smarter, Not Harder
• 7 Lessons For Academic Success In High School
• 50 Study Motivation Quotes For Students

The post 15 Student Desk Essentials For The Best Study Space appeared first on Sincerely Students.

In this post, I’ll reveal how I get ready for a long study session and the things I do during it to ensure healthy productivity. Follow these steps, and you’ll slowly be able to study for long hours in one sitting, without getting burnt out. Let’s get into the post!

Find A Source Of Motivation

Before you begin, you should find a source of motivation to put you in the right mindset to get work done. This can be intrinsic or extrinsic motivation, but intrinsic motivation will be more effective for long-term success.

Intrinsic motivation is when you engage in an activity because you enjoy it. Extrinsic motivation is when you engage in an activity because there is an external reward or punishment that’s pushing you to do or not do something.

Extrinsic motivation can be effective for short times, but in the long term, you will become burnt out and lose all passion for the activity itself, which is not healthy. Therefore, you should aim to find intrinsic motivation.

Take some time to find out what motivates you to keep studying or working in a certain subject. Use this as motivation to keep going.

Prepare A Reward

If you simply cannot find a source of intrinsic motivation, try to create an extrinsic source of motivation for yourself. You can do this by preparing a reward!

Set up a system where, once you complete all the tasks on your to-do list, you give yourself a little award (such as a dessert, an episode of a show, 15 minutes playing a game, etc).

It will take some trial and error to find the ideal ratio between the amount of work and strength of the reward, but once you do, it will be effective in motivating you for a while! Make sure not to overwork yourself or be too generous with the award – find a balance where you’re genuinely motivated to work and keep working.

Clean & Declutter Your Desk

Now that you have the right mental space to sit down for a long study session, start preparing your physical space. The first thing I like to do is to clean and declutter my desk or study area.

Here’s a tip: don’t study in bed or on the couch. Work in a designated “focus” space, such as your desk; you could even visit the library or café if you’d like a change from your usual space at home.

Though you don’t need to completely clear your desk, you should remove all distractions: gaming consoles, books, phones, etc. You should also make sure the supplies you need are ready to go: pencils and pens, notes, textbooks, etc.

Here’s a post to help you out: How To Organize Your Desk To Maximize Productivity. 

Plan Ahead & Write It Down

An essential step to prepare for long hours of studying is to plan it out beforehand. If you start without a plan, you’ll quickly lose track of your tasks, get distracted, and lose motivation. So before you begin, sit down and plan it out.

There are 2 steps I like to take when I plan a long study session: time-blocking and writing to-do lists.

Time-blocking

Use a digital tool like Apple’s default calendar or Google Calendar to make time-blocks in the day, with each one designated for one task or subject. This will help you stay on track and accountable for your time. Here’s an example of what a time-blocked study session could look like on Google Calendar:

Writing to-do lists

Though I have each subject or assignment listed on the calendar as a timeblock, I write most of the details of the assignment on a to-do list. I try to be as concise as possible when writing my tasks; remember to break down large projects into smaller steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed!

Though I prefer writing a physical to-do list (on a piece of paper or on my planner), you can also make it digital. Google Workspace has a feature called Tasks that allows for easy synchronization with your calendar:

YOU’LL LOVE THIS POST: 9 Powerful Daily Habits For Productivity

Remove All Distractions

Even if you’re highly motivated and determined to focus for a long time, distractions– if you don’t take steps to remove them– will appear and knock you off track. It is essential that you prevent this from happening by removing all distractions from your area before a study session.

Though I already touched on some things to do earlier in the post, here are some more detailed and actionable steps:

First, turn off all social media notifications on all your devices. You don’t need to delete the apps, but make sure you won’t be tempted to open them while studying.

Next, try to minimize the number of tabs open on your device. The more tabs you have open, the more difficult it will be to always stay on the right ones. If you need all the tabs, organize them with tab groups:

If you have a device you tend to use a lot for gaming or relaxing (such as an iPad for watching shows and playing games), put it away on the other side of the room or out of the room.

Also, make sure you’re not hungry while studying by snacking a little before starting. If you didn’t get enough sleep, take a short (15-20 minutes) nap to energize yourself.

Lastly, force yourself to get back on track when you are getting distracted. Take a deep breath, recollect your thoughts, organize your to-do list, and get back to work.

One Thing At A Time

It may feel overwhelming to have to sit down for hours and work on many projects. Your to-do list may seem intimidating in length, making you lose your motivation before even starting.

To prevent this from happening, prioritize your tasks and take things one at a time. Analyze your to-do list and pick out the most important. You can do this by considering its urgency and importance. Here’s a printout to help you out (download it from my Freebie Library):

Once your tasks are all organized, go down the list one at a time. You should schedule time blocks accordingly, giving a reasonable amount of time to each task.

Have Some Healthy Snacks

Depending on how long you’re studying for, you may get a little hungry in the middle. Though it’s always a good idea to have meals before you start (don’t start hungry!), some snacks are welcome during the study session.

However, make sure you are consuming healthy snacks that stimulate the brain and don’t make a mess. These can be vegetables and fruits, or other snacks such as:

• Baby carrots
• Grapes
• String cheese
• Dry cereal
• Pretzels
• Trail mix
• Energy bar

If you’re in a public place (such as a library), avoid crunchy and crumbly snacks. Otherwise, feel free to bring a small bag of any healthy snack and munch on it when you get hungry!

Take Breaks In Between

Last but certainly not least, remember to take breaks at reasonable intervals during your long study session! Without taking breaks, there will be a much higher chance of being burnt out and thus being less productive.

You can use the Pomodoro technique, in which you focus for 25 minutes, then take a break for 5 minutes, and repeat. This works well for any single task that takes a long time to complete.

However, since most of my tasks are smaller in size, I like to alter the Pomodoro technique a little: 40-60 minutes focusing on a task (ideally finishing it), then 10 minutes of rest. This helps me maintain momentum on each task.

The work-break interval will vary for each person, so take some time to try out different schedules to see which works best for you.

Conclusion

And that’s it! These techniques have helped me stay motivated and focused in long study sessions, and I hope they will help you, too! If you enjoyed this post, check out these related ones:

• 5 Common Myths About Studying That Are Ruining Your Productivity
• 60 Life-Changing Habits To Build This Semester
• How To Effectively Remember Everything You Study
• 50 Study Motivation Quotes For Students

The post How To Study For Long Hours In 8 Super Simple Steps appeared first on Sincerely Students.