School is in full swing and assignments are starting to pile up. How can you help your high school or college student avoid being stressed and overwhelmed? One way is by creating an effective study space. One that will rekindle her motivation and help her focus on getting her work done.  

An effective study space is one in which your daughter can be productive. It should be calming, organized, welcoming, and comfortable.  Ideally, her study space should be out of her bedroom.  Keeping her work space separate will support better sleep and relaxation. 

Here are five elements of effective study space. Share this with your teen or college student, or use it as a guide for creating a space with her.  

1. Few distractions 

First ask yourself,  what tends to distract me? If it is loud noises, then make sure your study space is quiet.  If it’s screens, make a point to put screens away from your study space.  If you focus better with soft music, set up a speaker.  The point is to create a space that is conducive to focus and productivity. 

2. Lots of light, natural light if possible

Make sure to have plenty of light, preferably natural light.  If you can set up a study space near a window, do it.  Light will keep you alert and awake. If you spend a lot of time in front of the screen, it will also help protect your eyes. (You may also want to consider blue light glasses). 

3. Fresh air 

Fresh air not only helps bring oxygen to your brain but it supports a clean, calming environment.  If you can’t create a study space near a window, consider getting an air purifier or a fan.  This is a remarkable way to keep yourself comfortable and focused. 

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4. A plant or flower 

Adding something visually appealing to your study space makes it more welcoming.  You want to create a space that you enjoy being in, so comfort and aesthetics matter.  A bit of nature also improves the oxygen of your space.  

5. A comfortable chair and a desk 

Position your desk and chair so you can sit upright. This will help your circulation (think oxygen to the brain to help you think) and prevent headaches, backaches, or other physical tension.  A proper seating situation is especially important for long study nights. Although you might be tempted to study on your bed or on the couch, try to avoid it.  If you are too comfortable, you’re likely to be too tempted by distractions.