So you’ve got an essay to research, a large pile of textbooks, and your laptop ready to take notes. All you need now is somewhere suitable to get your work done. As such, we’ve prepared this handy list of five places you can use to study (complete with pros and cons).
1. The Library
Pros: It’s an obvious choice, but there are reasons that libraries are everyone’s first option for a study space. Having all the books you could ever need at your fingertips, for example, along with helpful librarians to offer advice if you’re not sure where to find something.
Cons: Libraries are everyone’s first choice. As such, competition for space and resources can be fierce, especially if you’ve not brought your own computer along. Plus, even if a busy environment doesn’t bother you, constantly running into people you know can be distracting.
2. A Coffee Shop
Pros: Free Wi-Fi, somewhere to plug in your laptop and phone charger, a quiet environment, and (importantly) a ready source of caffeine to keep you going. The perfect combination.
Cons: They can be busy places. And the coffee question is a fine balancing act: too much and you end up buzzing to the point that you can’t concentrate; too little and the proprietor might decide you’re exploiting their generosity and switch off the router until you leave.
3. The Park
Pros: When the weather’s right, studying in the great outdoors lets you get fresh air while you work, as well as freeing you from many of the distractions associated with modern technology.
(Photo: danisabella/flickr)
Cons: Not so good if you need dependable internet access. And this is the UK, so the chances of getting rained on are pretty high for most of the year.
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4. Campus Study Spaces
Pros: While everyone piles into the library, most universities have other dedicated places to study if you know where to look. You can often even book ahead to make sure you have somewhere quiet to yourself. Check your institution’s website to see what they have available.
Cons: If there is a booking system, there might be a queue, so this could require a bit of forward planning! Worth it if you can be that organised, though.
5. Home
Pros: Being comfortable is important for studying. So your own home, especially your own room, should be perfect for productivity. All you need to do is settle down and get to work…
Cons: Before you start, though, maybe you’ll make lunch. And while you’re doing that you’ll watch some TV. What’s that, Midsomer Murders is on? And you’ve not seen that episode? OK, you’ll just watch this and then start working when it’s done.
(Source: LifeBloodMarketing/YouTube)
When did it get dark outside? Weren’t you supposed to be doing something? Oh well, your housemate has invited you out to the pub now. Time for a drink!