From conducting research for essay or dissertation writing to studying for important tests, a student’s life is often a lot busier than the others may think.
According to one APA report, 80 to 95 percent of college students procrastinate on their academic work. The main reasons for putting off what needs to be done often include stress, lack of energy and confidence, poor time management, or working in the wrong environment.
However, there is some excellent news for all procrastinators out there. With these four great tips to encourage you to start studying again, you’ll get back on track in no time.
1. Get motivated to study by changing the environment
Spending hours at your desk intensely focused on essay writing or preparing for exams sounds like a far cry from an enjoyable activity. Sometimes, all you need to do is simply step away from your tasks and take some time to go for a relaxing walk. Spending time outside will help your body and your mind, and by the time you get back, your working space will feel a lot less intimidating.
For some students, changing the environment means getting out of their homes and dorm rooms and finding other spots to turn into study venues. Whether you like studying in a park, a coffee shop, or a public library, whatever works for you is a good choice.
2. Essay writing will be easier after a “power nap”
Stress and the lack of energy are some of the most common reasons why students often feel the lack of motivation to start studying. If you want to keep your brain in good shape, you must pay close attention to the needs of your body as well.
A healthy mind dwells in a healthy body, so eating healthy, exercising, and getting enough sleep during the night are crucial for every student. If you can’t get a good night’s sleep as often as you need it, take some time to energize your body with afternoon “power naps”. Rest for an hour or two, and get back to your task.
3. Lost motivation? Commit to a single task at the time
Trying to accomplish a lot in a short period of time can be quite stressful, and even bad for your health. Instead of pushing yourself to do the impossible, try the smart, efficient approach, and dedicate yourself to one task at the time.
Easier tasks take less time to finish and help build momentum, but can also give a false estimate of overall progress. Starting off with difficult tasks will make you more confident about the subsequent ones, but can also wear you out before you get to them. Weigh the pros and cons according to your situation, and choose the order that seems the most efficient in the given circumstances.
4. Overcoming inertia with Pomodoro technique: The best way to get motivated
A tomato-shaped kitchen timer turns out to be useful for more than just cooking. Named after this little gadget, the Pomodoro technique, invented in the late 1990s, helps you master time management in these few simple steps.
- Step 1: Decide which task you need to get done.
- Step 2: Set the timer for 25 minutes, and dedicate yourself fully to the task.
- Step 3: If you have remembered something important while working on your task, make a quick note, and keep working until the timer rings.
- Step 4: When the timer rings, write a checkmark on your paper. Congratulations, you’ve completed your first milestone, called “pomodoro”.
- Step 5: Take a short break to rest.
- Step 6: When you complete 4 pomodoros, you can take a longer break (ideally 20-30 minutes).
Conclusion
When you’re struggling to stay motivated and focused on essay writing and other academic tasks, it can feel like you’ve lost a battle. Luckily, with these simple, efficient steps, you are sure to become more productive than ever before. Make sure to try them out, and let us know which ones work best for you.