Adjusting to e-learning can be difficult. Getting into the mindset of studying requires changes to your environment and modifying your study habits.

Here are some tips on how to figure out the new norm, while staying successful.

  1. Create your own workspace: Make a dedicated space that you can retreat to every day that is specific for your e-learning studies. Try to find a comfortable place with minimal distractions that will really allow you to focus, even if it’s just a corner in your bedroom. Decorating your new space with a few of your favorite things will make it a bit easier and more inviting when you’re spending multiple hours a day there. Consider things like the lighting and a chair that’s comfortable enough to sit in for several hours at a time.

  2. Get organized: Organization is key to being successful during e-learning. Make sure that you have all of the resources you will need in order to pass your classes. You may need to purchase a few additional books that you typically would have rented from the library, or see if they have an electronic version available. Organizing all of your files for each class, and taking adequate notes will help when you’re studying for an exam or writing a paper.

  3. Set a schedule: Because the days seem to blend together, it’s more important than ever to create a schedule and stick to it. The last thing you want is to feel lost and overwhelmed because you mismanaged your time. Map out how many hours each day you’ll study for each class. There are a lot of tools out there designed to help you maintain focus, from task-management methods like Pomodoro to music playlists for studying on Spotify. You can also switch up your schedule every week so you don’t get bored. Also, remember to pencil in plenty of breaks to rest your brain.

  4. Stay connected: Attend your professor’s open hours, even if it is to further discuss the lecture for that week. Staying in touch with your professor will help keep you accountable for the work you will have to complete for the class. Make sure to join online study groups with your classmates, and if there aren’t any, create the group yourself, and post it to your class discussion board.

  5. Self-care: Take multiple times each day to do something that you enjoy, whether it’s texting a friend, dancing, going for a walk, or watching TikTok. Even just sitting quietly can be valuable, as mindfulness practices can help you stay centered during difficult times. Staying true to yourself, and providing self-care during this pandemic should be a top priority. If you’re not 100%, then you can’t give your all to anything else.

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