Getting Your Homework Environment Right

There is no such thing as the perfect homework environment. One student's optimum homework conditions are another's idea of homework hell. The key to creating the right homework environment for you is to think carefully about how you work best and to build a study setting accordingly.

However, certain aspects of the homework environment are important to the success of all students. Having a special pace set aside to complete tasks will help you to get into the right frame of mind for working and boost your levels of concentration.

Creating a Special Homework Area

It is important to find a studying space where you will be comfortable and free from distractions. Take a look around your home and decide upon a spot with plenty of natural light, or a good indoor light. Check that the furniture you are using meets your needs. A table that is at the right height, along with a good chair, will ensure that you are comfortable and ready to work. Arrange your materials in pots and trays so that they are easily accessible and you don't waste vital homework time searching for a ruler or highlighter that has gone astray. Some students prefer to complete their homework in silence, others need a gentle level of sound. It might not be your cup of tea, buy why not consider working to a little classical music? Studies have shown that this can improve concentration. It has also been argued that chewing gum keeps your brain alert whilst working.

Completing Homework Elsewhere

If it is not possible to create a permanent homework space, a good alternative is to work at a dinner table. This will obviously need to be cleared for meal times, encouraging you to ensure your work is done in time. If you decide upon this option, try keeping all your homework materials in a box or basket so that you have them to hand. You might need to invest in a protective covering for the table to guard against any unfortunate accidents with felt tips. If it is not possible to work comfortably at home, consider working in your school, college or local library. Here, there are plenty of peaceful study areas to be found and there is the added bonus of being surrounded by helpful books.

Getting Ready to Study

Before you undertake a homework assignment, have small snack first. This will keep your energy levels up and help you to stay on task. However, it is important to choose a healthy option. Go for a piece of fruit or a small handful of nuts. Sugary snacks will just send your concentration levels plummeting.

Deciding upon and creating your homework environment can be fun. Getting into a routine and having all your materials instantly to hand will eliminate those five or ten minutes that are usually wasted gathering all that you need to complete your homework. Instead, why not reallocate those five or ten minutes and give yourself a short break half way through your homework session. In this way, you can return to your work energised and refreshed, bursting with new ideas.