Managing your time as a student is no easy feat, especially when juggling classes, extracurriculars, work, and a healthy life. Here are my favorite study hacks that I use as a college student at UMD! However, anyone can use these tips, regardless of age or occupation.

1. Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro Technique involves studying for a set amount of time, followed by a short break. This process is repeated for a predesignated amount of time or until your task is completed. For example, studying for half an hour, taking a 5-minute break, and then repeating those motions 4 more times (for a total of 2 hours studied and 20 minutes in break time) is an example of how a student might use the Pomodoro technique. Built-in breaks, as well as a set finish line, enable the brain to focus more effectively.

There are many YouTubers who create follow-along Pomodoro videos, so you don’t have to worry about setting the timer. My personal favorite channel is Abao in Tokyo. Their videos showcase beautiful city skylines, come in versions with lo-fi music or ambient noise, and work to motivate you since you see someone else working hard!

2. Switch your Study Spot

Studies have shown that switching your study spot can help rejuvenate your mind and ward off monotony and boredom. Additionally, moving between study spots serves as an exercise break, which helps stimulate your brain and enhance your focus. This is why I like to use my Pomodoro breaks to find a new environment that is conducive to studying. Remember that your brain associates certain activities with certain places, so avoid studying in your bed if you don’t want to get distracted! 

Another trick is to study in areas where other people are also working, instead of by yourself. Body doubling, which is especially helpful for those with ADHD, can improve concentration and motivation.

3. Time Blocking

I find to-do lists to be way more useful when done in conjunction with time-blocking. On their own, to-do lists can be overwhelming and disheartening when we don’t check everything off in one day. Instead, make a to-do list with everything you have to do that week. and use a time-blocking template (there are lots of free ones online!) to decide when and for how long you will do each task. Knowing exactly when and in what order you will do your work streamlines the process and reduces the mental load of decision-making, allowing you to start work effortlessly.

4. Prioritizing

Too often, I find myself procrastinating productively– avoiding a difficult assignment that more urgently needs to be completed in favor of working on an easier one with less importance. Doing the thing you’re most dreading first, whether that be studying, writing an essay, or preparing for an interview, sets the rest of your day up for success and ensures you won’t be able to keep pushing it off.

5. End-of-the-Day-Deadline

It is helpful to set a time at the end of the day when I stop working. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule, but having a deadline motivates me to stay focused throughout the day, because I know that I won’t be able to work on it late at night. Having a designated time to stop all work has also helped with my sleep schedule and mental health, as I have the evening to take my time getting ready for bed, stretch, and journal. Now, I maintain my attention on my work during the day, and after 10:30 PM, I allow myself to set aside all remaining work for tomorrow.

For more college-student perspectives, follow us on Instagram @focus_first_coaching. Additionally, explore the rest of the Focus First website, or book a consultation appointment for more information on our specialized tutoring services!

Sources:

Scroggs, Laura. “The Pomodoro Technique — Why It Works & How to Do It.” Todoist, www.todoist.com/productivity-methods/pomodoro-technique.

“The Body Double: A Unique Tool for Getting Things Done.” Attention Deficit Disorder Association, 22 June 2016, add.org/the-body-double/.

“The Magic of Changing Study Environments: Why It Works and Tips to Try”. Routine, 2024, routine.co/blog/posts/changing-study-environments-why-it-works-and-tips.