Tips for studying at home during social distancing

Set short-, medium-, and long-term study priorities for home study during social distancing, balance health and well-being, limit news exposure, and pursue goals like exams and a 3–5 year plan.

Create a minimal, dedicated study space at home with only essential items like a book, computer, and paper; keep distractions out and jot thoughts with a pen.

Use earplugs with at least 30 dB reduction or active noise cancelling headphones for continuous noise; avoid music or podcasts while studying.

Keep your focus during home study by keeping a notebook handy to jot down distractions and non-study tasks, then return to studying without losing momentum.

Schedule your study sessions in advance, preferably the day before, and block dedicated times on your calendar to protect focus and boost daily productivity.

Create and stick to a regular self-imposed schedule for study and activities when studying at home during social distancing.

Set realistic study goals at home by using a to-do list to break large tasks into concrete steps and prioritize them, while accepting some items may not be completed today.

Contact your teacher or group leader when studying at home, and email a concrete, specific question detailing what you’ve tried and what you’re struggling with to get a helpful reply.

Join an online study group to boost social accountability and stay focused at home, meeting at the same time via Skype, Zoom, or Hangouts, and mute microphones to reduce noise.

Reward yourself after each at home study session to balance sacrifice and enjoyment, using a list of relaxing activities like music, a show, or a call with a friend.