Studying is not easy, especially when you are sleepy. If you always feel sleepy every time you study or about to study, you are definitely not alone as a lot of people also relate to you. When you have to study but you are sleepy, it is normal for you to prefer sleeping instead of starting or continuing your study. However, it is not the best option as you really need to study. The good news is that there are a few things that you can try to be able to focus on when studying even when you are sleepy. Check out all the tips below:
- Study in a brightly lit room if you are studying late at night
The first step that you have to do when you are about to study is to set up the right environment. One of the most important things is to set up the light. The kind of light does matter. Choosing a room that has natural light sources, such as close to a window, really does wonders on making you focus. The focus will be still there even in the afternoon. According to some studies, people that had exposure to daylight in the day tend to stay alert for longer in the evening. If you study at night, you are suggested to get the bright light. If possible, do not rely on one light source.
- Study in a place that is not too comfortable
Getting too comfortable is not good. It is not good when you are trying to learn a new thing. To avoid getting comfortable, first of all, you can try to wear something like work clothes and not pajamas. It will be harder for you to fall asleep in the suits than in the pajamas.
The second thing that you can try is to try standing occasionally while studying. According to a study in 2011, 87% of the participants reported higher energy levels, 87% felt more energized, 75% felt healthier, 71% felt more focused, 66% felt more productive, 62% felt happier, and 33% felt less stressed.
- Change your study spot every day to boost your memory
Studying at the same place all over again can make you bored and sleepy. Try to get something new. For instance, if one day you study at a coffee shop, the next time, study at home in the kitchen. When choosing the best location to study, make sure to choose the one that fits your studying style and personality.
- Get rid all distractions before studying
One of the most popular distractions is the phone. When you are about to study, you are advised to switch your phone silent. If you have to study on a computer, make sure to close every tab relating to the other websites and social media. Remember to only open the ones that are important for your study.
Apart from your phone, your family members or friends can also be distractions. Before studying, tell them that you are going to study and ask them to not disturb you. If they are not around when you are about to study, write down the warning on a piece of paper and put it in front of your door.
- Study with the other people that share the same mind
There are some pros and cons of studying in a group. On one hand, it can turn the study session into a chatting one with zero productivity. On the other hand, it can be useful to motivate each other and to make everything keep going, similar to a gym buddy. The thing is that it is not easy to find the right study partner. You can consider yourself lucky if you ever find one. That one friend can help you to concentrate on your subject and to reach your goals.
- Drink enough water
If you are thinking of drinking coffee to help you awake during your study session, then you are wrong. Drinking coffee before or during studying is a mistake. Unfortunately, not everyone is aware about it. In fact, it gives you that very short term one-off boost and sends your productivity crashing later, which is not a good thing for a long term. Instead of drinking coffee, it is better for you to choose water. Water is all that you need when you are tired or when you are sleepy as dehydration forces your body to work harder. Besides, it also gives you pounding headaches and increases your metal exhaustion.
- Have a balanced diet and avoid try to not eat heavy meals
Heavy meals are known to be a recipe for sleepiness so please try your hardest to avoid consuming them before studying. Instead of heavy meals, you can eat natural, nutritious food balanced with protein, carbohydrates, vegetables and healthy fats for sustained energy throughout the day.
- Chew some gum while study to wake up your brain
According to some studies, chewing gum while studying or during exams can improve your memory and concentration. Get chewing gum instead of coffee. It is safer because it has no negative impact on your sleep quality. On top of that, it keeps your internal body clock in check.
- Listen to upbeat music to keep your brain alert
The best music for studying is the one that can help your brain process and retain new information. To keep you awake, turn on the radio or play music from your phone or computer while you study. Instead of slow, sad songs, you are recommended to choose pop or dance music. These kinds of music are proven to boost your mood and energy, preventing you from getting asleep when studying.
- Try switching topics or tasks
If you feel sleepy, it can be a sign that the topic that you are currently studying is boring. If it is the case, try switching the topics. Choose the one that you think is interesting.
