Whether you’re gearing up for exams, tackling coursework or simply trying to stay ahead, your study environment plays a huge role in how productive, focused and motivated you feel. It’s easy to get distracted and lose focus, but with a few smart adjustments you can turn any room into a study-friendly sanctuary that actually helps you get things done.
At Student Digs, we provide the space, but it’s up to you to bring it to life. Creating the right study environment is all about shaping a space that helps you stay focused, calm and productive. Here’s how to set up a study spot that supports your success.
Choosing a Dedicated Study Zone
The first step is carving out a specific spot for studying. It’s easy to think a shared space will make things easier because it’s larger. However, this usually leads to more distractions, especially if one of your housemates is practicing their karaoke skills whilst cooking dinner.
A small corner of your bedroom works perfectly as long as it’s dedicated to study time only. Your brain quickly learns to associate that spot with focus, making it easier to get into the right mindset. Just avoid studying in bed. This blurs the line between rest and work and ends up making both harder.
Optimising Your Desk Setup
A comfortable, well-organised desk is the heart of any good study environment. Keep only the essentials within reach: laptop, notebook, pens and perhaps a water bottle. Clutter increases stress and decreases concentration, so aim for a clean and minimal layout. If possible, invest in an ergonomic chair to support long study sessions without back pain.
Control Lighting for Comfort and Focus
Lighting is way more important than most people realise and you’ll feel the difference straight away. If you can, set up your desk near a window. Natural light lifts your mood and makes it so much easier to stay awake and focused (especially on those long study days).
When it gets dark, switch to a warm, bright desk lamp that’s easy on your eyes. Harsh overhead lights or super-dim corners might seem fine at first, but they can leave you tired and unfocused before you even get started. The right lighting genuinely changes the vibe and your productivity.
Manage Noise Levels for Studying
Living with housemates can mean noise is inevitable, but you can still create a calm study environment. Alongside this, a new study by Aparto shows that 32% of students say loud external noise directly affects their ability to study. Noise-cancelling headphones or soft background music (like lo-fi or instrumental playlists) can help block distractions. Some students work best in silence, while others prefer a bit of ambient sound. Find what works for you and stick with it.
How To Focus Better When Studying
Staying focused while studying can be tough, but a few simple habits make a big difference.
- Try to study at the same time each day so your mind recognises the pattern
- Break your work into short bursts with quick breaks in between, it keeps your brain from burning out
- Keep your phone out of reach so you’re not tempted to check every notification
- Set small, realistic goals for each session so you know exactly what you’re working toward
- Keep snacks, water and everything you need nearby
Creating the perfect study environment isn’t about having a huge space or expensive furniture. It’s about designing a setup that helps you stay focused, comfortable and motivated. With a few small changes, your study space can become a huge boost to your academic success.
Ready to create your perfect study space? Find your next student home with Student Digs, where comfort, convenience and great study environments come as standard. Check out our student properties in Leicester, Nottingham, Liverpool, Chester and Sheffield.
