Study can be very rewarding — but at times it can also be mind-numbingly boring too.
So whether you’re already in the midst of your studies, or considering a return to education, here are 10 top tips that will help make formal learning much more fun.
Music
No one wants to sit in silence for hours on end, so find some catchy tunes to entertain you while you work. But be wary of songs with lyrics as you might find yourself singing along instead of studying. For more information, check out this article on the benefits of study music.
Cool stationery
Set yourself up with some awesome study gear – simple stationery items like a set of highlighters add some colour to your notes, while scented gel pens make studying smell sweeter.
Flashcards
Make yourself some flashcards and get someone to quiz you. The process of creating them is an education in itself, because you’ll have to condense your course content and pick out the most important parts.
Feeling inspired? Check out this wikiHow guide to making flash cards for useful tips.
Study buddy
A problem shared is a problem halved – so team up with a course mate to learn from each other and keep one another motivated.
And to spice things up a little, create some study games that cultivate a healthy sense of competition and will be enjoyable whilst keeping you focused on learning.
Change where you study
Add some variety to your work time by changing where you study.
If it’s sunny, head on down to the beach or the park, or alternatively, try using a different room or location for each subject – how you do this is entirely up to you, but you’ll have fun deciding.
Take a trip
Trips aren’t just for kids – liven study up by heading to a museum or participating in an activity that will improve your knowledge of your subject. It’ll be a relief to get away from your books and open your eyes to more interactive ways of learning.
Be creative
Do something creative like turning your notes into a song or a rap to make them more memorable. And let’s not forget that famous study dance you need to create to keep you in the zone – when no one’s watching, of course.
Study treats
Reward yourself with study treats for completing set targets such as reading a book chapter — this will give you something to look forward to and keep you on task.
Distance learning
After years of being confined to a classroom at school, the thought of spending more time being cooped up is daunting.
So if you’ve not chosen a degree, consider enrolling on an Anglia Ruskin Distance Learning course, where you can study flexibly from the comfort of your own home.
Remember the ‘why’
Remember why you chose your course in the first place– there was something about it that inspired you. Hold on to this motivational memory and the tedium you’re feeling will subside.
That’s our list – but share your own fun study tips in the comments section.
