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How To Overcome a Study Slump as a College Student

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Nimaris Ortiz Student Contributor, University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UPRM chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

As we reach the end of the semester with one month left, it’s easier to lose motivation to study and enter a study slump. These slumps can be frustrating and demotivating, but fear not; there are effective strategies to overcome them and get back on the path to academic success. First, let’s understand what a study slump is. It’s that phase when you lack the motivation, focus, or energy to study effectively. The causes can vary, from burnout and information overload to personal issues and distractions. Here are some tips to overcome this:

Set Clear Goals:

Establish specific, achievable goals for your study sessions. As you start don’t make a long list; it’s better to have a short, achievable list than a long, unrealistic one. Knowing what you want to accomplish will give your studying a sense of purpose and direction. This can reignite your motivation. Remember that what motivates others doesn’t have to motivate you.

Create a Study Schedule:

Organize your study time by creating a schedule. Allocate specific time slots for studying, breaks, and leisure activities. Stick to this schedule as closely as possible to build a routine. Although starting or changing your routine can be challenging, it can be achieved by simple measures. For example, by making a list. Most of the time, we think we won’t forget about our homework, but everyone has a lot of responsibilities, not only college. If you don’t know where to start, just think about each class and check if you have any tests or projects and write them down.

 Change Your Study Environment:

Sometimes, a change of scenery is all you need to break free from the monotony. Although its nicwto be in your room, you can become too comfortable and you can easily fall asleep or get dstracted. Experiment with different study locations– a library, coffee shop, or even studying outdoors. A fresh environment can rekindle your enthusiasm. Just seeing other people study and be productive can help us stay concentrated.

Try Different Techniques:

Experiment with productivity techniques like the Pomodoro method. This involves working for a set time and then taking a short break. For example, study for 25 minutes and take 10-minute breaks. These intervals can boost your concentration and make studying lessoverwhelming. My advice would be that during those breaks, don’t use your phone or watch TV. Try reading a book, stretching, drinking water, eating a snack, or taking a shower.

Reward Yourself:

Celebrate your accomplishments. After completing a study session or achieving a milestone, reward yourself with something you enjoy, be it buying some ice cream, hanging out with friends, going to the movies, just taking a day for yourself or just sleeping a few extra hours.

Even though study slumps can be frustrating, just remeber that everyone expiriences them. What’s important is that you get through them and are able to achieve your goals. Don’t forget that what works for others doesn’t necessarily have to work for you, just take the time to experiment and find what’s best for you.

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Favorite book : “The Love Hypothesis”