It’s not a secret that your environment can affect your mood and productivity. While there are people who can study even from the comfort of their own bed, most people cannot focus in an unproductive environment. This is why many students choose to study in libraries, study rooms, and even cafés. However, you can also adjust your dorm room to fit your studying needs. So, if you’d like to turn your dorm room into an efficient study room, here are a few suggestions that should help you.

Make full use of your space

Whether your dorm room is big or small, you can always make a bit more free space for studying. For example, if you have a free-standing bookshelf, you can replace it with wall-hung shelves and create enough room for a small desk. You can install some hanging storage for your notebooks too. There are also many furniture pieces that double as storage, so you should consider those as well. Additionally, if you have a big fridge in your dorm room, you can change it for a smaller one and again, save space.

Remove distractions

Just like there are things you need in your study space, there are things you should avoid in order to maximize your attention. In other words, while studying, you need to get rid of any potential distractions. This means that your phone shouldn’t be within arm’s reach, and the Internet should be used only for studying and researching. If you’re having trouble staying away from social media, YouTube, and similar entertaining platforms, there are many great apps that can help you block those pages until you’re done studying.

Use good lighting

Good lighting is essential for your concentration, especially if your studying implies a lot of reading. After all, nobody feels like studying a dimly lit room. So, regardless of how strong your overhead light is, you should also have a decent desk lamp. Moreover, if you can, you should position your desk next to the window, so you can get natural light too. Natural light is easier on the eyes, and it can boost your energy levels too. Finally, if you usually study on a computer, position it in a way to avoid glare, and adjust the brightness of the screen to suit you.

Get the right furniture

Speaking of the things you should have, one of many available quality office desks and an ergonomically correct chair are a must. Your desk should be large enough for both your notebooks and your laptop – if you use them at the same time. It should also have some storage, so your pens, notes, and other things can be where you need them the most. On the other hand, an ergonomically correct chair will keep your back in the correct position, which is extremely important for your health.

Keep your study space as clean (or messy) as it suits you

In general, your study space should be neat and organized in order for you to be able to focus. However, some research has shown that messier spaces can benefit you if you’re working on something that requires a bit more creativity. This is because messy spaces encourage unconventional thinking. Plus, even a mess can be organized – as long as you know where everything you need is. In short, it all comes down to your personal preference.

Take breaks

When studying, it’s important to organize not just your space but your time as well. Of course, there are people who can study for hours without a break. However, breaks can help you freshen up, recharge your batteries, and clear your mind, so you can study more effectively. So, set your own studying rules, whether you want to study for an hour before taking a longer break or for 25 minutes before taking a shorter break. Also, make sure to spend those breaks the right way – don’t go on social media, and don’t do anything that requires thinking. Use them to relax and unwind, so you can continue studying.

Your dorm room can be your perfect studying spot, with a few adjustments. Of course, you need the right furniture, so you can sit and study comfortably for longer periods of time. You also need enough light to prevent too much eye strain. Moreover, come up with a time schedule that suits you, and you should have no trouble sticking to it. By following these tips, your studying is bound to become more effective, and the results would show in no time.

Emma B. Joyce is blogger based in Australia. She is a true home decor and DIY fanatic. Emma is interested in music and also is a big reading enthusiast. Finding new designs and patterns is her daily task. She is a regular contributor on https://smoothdecorator.com.