6 Tips to Make Your Study Hours Stress-Free

Written by Shilpa Munjuluri

Edited by Christina Linsley & Lucia Koo

Doing a lot of extracurricular activities can be fun, but do they leave you with very little time to get your studies done? Does this stress you out? Here are some tips to help you get your work completed efficiently!

Make To-Do lists

Setting a particular time in the day for studying and sticking to it helps you feel in charge of your day. On the other hand, a vigorous schedule can be vexing, so instead of planning out everything, simply make an outline you can commit to. A cramped schedule only adds to the stress, so keep your schedule light and open.

When making a to-do list, make sure to mention how much time you plan to spend on each task. Don’t forget to add personal time for yourself!

Don’t Cram

Never delay your tasks until the last few hours! This will only add to the stress of completing them. When you're given an assignment, make sure to start it as soon as possible, and evenly distribute the work throughout the remaining time.

When preparing for a test, make sure you have a grasp on all the topics. One way of doing this is going through everything you’ve learned by frequently updating your own notes, which will help you stay on top of your studies. When it’s time for the test, all you have to do is a review.

Listen to Music

Music is the best stress buster!

When you're studying, play some soft music that isn’t too disturbing, as this will keep your mind clear and focused. Music can also help endurance, especially during long study sessions.

From personal experience, I discovered that when I listen to music while working, I work to the rhythm. If it's a song with an upbeat tempo, I work faster :)

Have a Designated Study Space

One aspect that is often overlooked is one’s study space. Having a fixed place for work and study helps you transition into the right mindset. Keeping your workspace separate from the place you sleep or eat is very important—it helps you stay focused.

Study and Set Goals with Friends

Studying with friends is a fun and efficient way to study. For some, it’s easier to understand certain topics when discussed thoroughly with others.

Studying together helps your group set goals. Ensure your goals are not too simple or unattainable. The target should eventually be to complete all the work you have set for the day.

Take Breaks

It is crucial to not overwork. When you’re feeling stuck, it is completely okay to take a break and focus your energy on something that makes you feel happy. Every once in a while you should dedicate a day off for yourself, wake up late, the order in food, or relax.

There’s no harm in resting. Know that taking a break doesn’t mean you’re not being productive. We all need time to unwind and focus on ourselves.

These are a few simple tricks that have helped me—hopefully you find them helpful too! Remember, stress can have a huge impact on your mental health. Never be afraid to reach out to a professional if you need assistance. Good luck!

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Shilpa Munjuluri is a junior in high school. She absolutely loves to read and draw. Currently, she stays in India. She is working towards a career in animation where she can be creative and bring joy to many.