Here’s how your study space can boost your focus

Ever sat down to study, only to spend 20 minutes clearing a table, searching for what you should be doing, or simply wondering where to start? It can sometimes feel so demotivating.

Here's the thing. When your space is cluttered or chaotic, your brain has to work harder just to focus. And when you don’t have a go-to place to study, every study session feels like starting from scratch.

Even the most motivated students can lose momentum if they’re constantly rejigging their environment. A good study space isn’t just about how much you get done; it’s about mental clarity and consistency.

What makes a study space work?

We often picture a “study space” as a neat desk in a quiet room, but it doesn’t have to look like that. It just has to be 'where you study'.

Whether you’re prepping for an assessment, doing nightly homework, or chipping away at a big assignment, your study environment quietly shapes how you will focus. It can either drain your energy or support your focus.

So while learning might be more mobile than ever, with laptops, audio notes, and shared spaces, having a consistent study zone still matters. Not because it’s old-school. But because it helps us. 

Why is a study area still useful?

Here’s what a study area helps with:

• It helps you start faster. When everything’s ready, you’re more likely to sit down and begin.
• It builds a strong habit loop. Your brain starts associating that space with focus, like muscle memory, but for your mind.
• It limits distractions. No temptation to scroll, snack, or drift off when your surroundings are set up for study.
• It separates work and rest. Studying on your bed? Your brain gets confused, and neither your sleep nor your study session is optimal. 

But what if I’m not a “desk person”?

That’s totally legit. Not everyone focuses best sitting upright at a tidy desk. Auditory and kinaesthetic learners often need to move, listen, or interact with their environment differently.

But even then, some structure still helps.

It’s not necessarily about having one fixed study spot; it’s more about being consistent and habitual with the environment you choose. For example:

• You might have a study playlist you use no matter where you are
• Or you use a portable study lap table that turns your immediate area into your focus zone
• Maybe you always study in one corner of the lounge, with headphones on and a warm drink beside you

It's less about the space itself and more about creating a ritual. A way to signal to your brain, “Now I'm going to focus.”

Your study area is not just for exams

You do far more than just revise in the study area. You'll be:

• Completing daily homework
• Researching and writing assignments
• Planning out upcoming tasks
• Reviewing class notes
• Watching class replays

Having a designated space makes these day-to-day tasks feel smoother and less overwhelming.

Design a study space you actually like

If you do decide to set up a study area, it doesn’t have to be fancy, but it should feel like somewhere you want to be. When your space is set up the way you like it, it’s easier to sit down, get started, and be there.

This illustration from the Quest Study Skills Journal highlights simple ways to turn your space into a calming, motivating study zone:

Your study set-up doesn’t have to be perfect. Just supportive, calming, and truly yours.

Here are a few of the ideas shown above:

• Use a proper filing system – it helps prevent visual overwhelm
• Put your current topics on display – like a topic wall or pinboard
• Set up good lighting – a warm lamp can make late study sessions cosy
• Play calming music, or focus sounds – especially if there are distractions around
• Add plants or small decorations – a little beauty goes a long way
• Keep water or tea nearby – so you don’t need to keep getting up
• Check your posture – arms should be at 90° at the desk to avoid strain
• Keep it clutter-free – tidy space, tidy mind
• Make it feel like you – posters, colours, a quote that lifts you up

You have to love your study set-up. Make it your cosy space :)