Start gently – but start now!
Good study habits begin with good routines. Try getting up at the same time every day, heading to the library, or sitting down at a tidy desk. If you keep that routine going for three weeks, chances are it’ll become second nature. That way, you won’t need to rely on motivation or willpower later in the semester. So, ease into it – and focus on creating a solid daily rhythm.
Small steps toward big goals
Just like you wouldn’t start marathon training by running 42 kilometers, don’t try to do everything at once when you study. Take things step by step and build your endurance gradually. Set small, realistic goals for each day – things you know you can achieve. That might be borrowing a book from the library and reading the table of contents, emailing your supervisor, or skimming through the syllabus before your next lecture.
Get the big picture
Create a semester plan that includes due dates for assignments, exams, seminars, or internship periods. What does your semester look like? Are there busy stretches? When can you take on extra shifts at work – and when should you avoid it? When is a good time for a weekend trip home or something fun? Having a clear overview helps reduce stress and avoid last-minute surprises.
Find your people
Connect with your fellow students. Form a study group or just grab a morning coffee together. Studying with others can boost your learning, and having social plans makes it easier to get out the door in the morning. Maybe you could start a regular morning coffee meet-up or a quick post-lecture “debrief” with classmates. Or invite someone who lives nearby for a lunch break. Need more tips on making friends? Check out this guide.
Blend study habits with other daily routines
It’s easier to stay consistent if your study time is part of your everyday life. Try building a steady morning routine – maybe breakfast and a short walk before your first lecture. This helps your body and mind prepare for the day. You can also set regular workout times during the week, like after lectures or on mornings when you start late. Another smart habit is tidying your desk at the end of a study session — it marks the shift from work mode to relaxation and helps separate study from downtime.