How to Create a Productive Work Environment

One of the most important productivity tips we give our students is to start every study session in a specifically-designed work environment. What does that mean, exactly? Well, there are a few things to keep in mind when setting up an optimal space.

1.) Have Necessary Materials at Hand

When deciding how to set up a workspace, start by thinking about the things you most commonly do there. If the area will be used primarily for studying and homework, what kinds of items do you need in order to be successful? In this case, any folders containing previous class material such as old tests or study sheets should have their own place in your study area for quick reference. A pencil box with pens and highlighters, a notebook for thoughts, or extra loose leaf paper may also be items you want close at hand. Make sure the room is well-lit and your seating is comfortable, as well.

2.) Make it Free From Distractions

Distractions can come in many forms- social media, loud noises, other people in the house. You may not have control over every distraction, but be mindful of things going on in your space that may make it harder to concentrate. Having a space away from televisions is beneficial even if they’re off, as they can be tempting to turn on during breaks. Place your phone in a drawer and put away handheld games and other electronics. Anything that may play noises or have alerts can jar you from a thought process.

On the other hand, if certain sounds help you to keep focus, such as the whirring of a fan or quiet music, that’s okay, too. Over time you will figure out what works for you, as long as you remain aware of your environment.

3.) Organize Your Space

How you organize depends largely on the type of space you have to work in. If you have a designated workspace where you can reliably leave your class materials, such as a desk in your room, this is ideal. A designated area may allow you to hang up useful information around you, like a periodic table or a list of class deadlines. You can have a desk drawer dedicated to cheat sheets or study notes.

If you have a “sometimes” space, an area which is usually used for something else (such as a kitchen table), then it’s important to think about which things you want out every time you work there, and which you only need on occasion. For example, you might have math homework every night, so the first thing you would do each session is take out your calculator, pencils, math book, and graph paper and set them to the side until you need them. Talk to a parent about keeping some of your belongings nearby, so that when you’re ready to work you can grab them and get started quickly.

Getting into the right mindset to work efficiently is much easier when you have an organized area with all your tools at the ready. A little time spent on getting your workspace in order can save hours of frustration and distraction, and following these simple steps will set you up for success.