The perfect spot for homework

Doing homework and studying regularly is key if students wish to succeed at school. This practice gets kids used to working independently and in a structured way. Therefore, it is important to choose the right space for doing homework in order to create a good working environment.

Choosing the right spot to do homework is a good way to increase motivation and efficiency when they are faced with mountains of homework. The four most important points to consider are light, noise level, company and the feel-good factor. Each student is different and has got a different idea of what makes the perfect study environment. Therefore, you have to find out what works for you which can be an interesting process. Have fun!

A sunny or well-lit spot

The perfect place to study can vary a lot for each individual, but one thing is certain, it's best to work in a well-lit space. In spaces which aren't well-lit, your eyes quickly become strained and fatigued. Natural daylight is best for studying, but a bright desk lamp also works.

For a lot of people, a desk in front of a window is the ideal place for working. This allows you to make the most of the natural light (including a healthy dose of vitamin D), save electricity and it also means you can relax and look out the window during pauses in your thinking, as long as you don't get too distracted. Occasionally focusing on something in the distance is also good for preventing short-sightedness. Constantly looking at books, school papers, phones and computer screens can strain your eyes and make you short-sighted.

Minimal distractions

Most students concentrate best when it is very quiet. An environment where noise levels and distractions, such as chatty family members and the TV, are not present is recommended. A desk in a bedroom can be ideal for this. Independent teenagers sometimes also focus well doing their homework and studying in the school library.

On the other hand, some children and teens prefer a lively environment for homework, for example, in the living room, at the kitchen table or in a café. Having soft music or voices in the background can stimulate and help motivate you. As stated previously, the perfect spot depends on each individual. Sometimes the perfect spot also depends on the time of day. For example, a noisy environment in the morning but silence in the afternoon might work for you!

Doing homework with friends or a study group

It's best to learn together. This is especially true for students who do not need absolute silence when doing their homework and studying. There are many advantages, for one doing homework and studying with someone else helps with lack of motivation. You can share your frustration and even have fun. On the other hand, you can also discuss any doubts that should arise as soon as they do. Check out our other blogs for more tips on how to form a study group.

Studying with classmates is therefore a good way to share school knowledge and help each other. You can also study with siblings or your parents, you don't necessarily have to be doing the same thing to work side by side in the same room. However, it is important not to get distracted too often.

Organising your desk

Often, the perfect spot for homework depends not only on the lighting conditions, noise level and company. Preferably studying should be done at a desk, but it should also be arranged in the right way. You should keep your workspace tidy and clean and remove any distractions such as your phone.

Some children and young people feel more comfortable in a clean, minimalist environment. On the other hand, others prefer a personalised study space which makes them feel comfortable and motivated to learn. Some objects you could decorate your study spot with include postcards, a plant, a stress ball or a candle.

Literature
Spitzer, Manfred (2014): Digital dementia. How we are driving ourselves and our children crazy. Munich: Droemer.