Studying from home can be challenging. Combining your relaxation and socialising space with your need study can feel almost impossible at times - especially when you have friends, family or flatmates buzzing around you too. However, it also has it's benefits. We've pulled together some useful tips on studying at home to help you find the balance.
Having a clear study space can really help with getting in the 'study zone'. Situated in a quieter place within your home, the area should be free from distration (whether this be a tv or other people!) and be able to accommodate everything you need to study - books, laptop, charging point, pens, course resources etc. Not only is creating a study space great for your mind, it's often useful for your body too. Having a robust and comfortable chair can alievate potential back problems, whilst a desk at a suitable height can help reduce your chance of neck strain or pain.
Ensuring you are equipped for your studies is pivotal for your success. At minimum, you will need a laptop or PC and your reading list provided by your school. It would also be worthwhile investing in notepads, post-it notes, highlighters and further stationary to give you alternative ways of working that don't require looking at a screen. The University also offers a range of free downloads for your laptop/PC to help support your studies, wherever you may be.
Much like your scheduled timetable from the University, having an established routine can be easier to follow than a more relaxed attitude to study. This doesn't need to be chockablock, and breaks are encouraged. It's also important to keep your weekend free - it is your weekend for a reason! You may wish to make your schedule flexible, or you may prefer to stick to a structured plan. Keep your options for the first few weeks to find out what works for you.
This is likely to fall off your radar - but the power of human contact is invaluable. You may wish to call your friend, videocall your coursemates, or simply have a chat with someone else in your household. Though you may wish to discuss you studies, it's also beneficial to NOT talk about work. A light conversation can be great medicine.
The University offers a wide range of support to help you throughout your studies. From wellbeing and mental health support, to career guidance and Student Finance information, browse our wide range of support teams in our help and guidance section. If you feel like you would benefit from instant mental health support, you may also wish to try togetherall. togetherall is a 24/7 online mental health support network and is available free of charge to all of our students. Simply sign in with your University email address and password.