GET MOTIVATED TO STUDY

You know you're supposed to study, but...

...how often do you end up watching TV, playing on the computer or goofing off in other ways instead? Hitting the books is crucial to your school career (and thus, your success in life), but actually making yourself sit down and study can sometimes seem like a major challenge.

Myjellybean.com has ten tips for how to motivate yourself to study and get your schoolwork done, so you can get it out of the way and have fun!

Identify Your Life Goals.

Maybe you want to be a doctor, or a famous singer, or a social worker. Realize that without a good education and good grades, you won't meet your goals. Even if your fantasy future doesn't require education, how embarrassing would it be for people to find out you did crappy in school! Decide to take charge of your future by taking charge of your study habits.

Use Your Time Wisely.

Set priorities by making a calendar of the month, and setting aside specific time blocks on specific days for studying.

Make It Possible.

Give yourself enough time to do the work you need to do. If you finish early, you can goof off. But stick to your calendar and don't blow off studying for anything else.

Think Chunky.

Study in small chunks of time, instead of long cramming periods. For example, you will accomplish more if you schedule yourself to study/work in 60 minute blocks, than if you study/work for 2-3 hours straight, with no breaks. Think of this when you're creating your study calendar.

Give Yourself a Prize.

Reward yourself after you complete a task. When you study for the whole time you set aside for yourself, do something nice to reward yourself.

Use the Buddy System.

Motivate yourself by studying with friends. Having a "study buddy" to help you stick to your schedule can be very helpful. Just be sure you both commit to the same study calendar.

Break It Down.

Break large assignments into small tasks. Do one piece at a time, instead of freaking about getting the whole thing done.

Schedule Everything.

Keep a reminder schedule and checklist of what you need to get done, and when it's due.

Make Your Environment Work for You.

Eliminate or minimize noise/distraction. Make sure you have adequate lighting. Have necessary equipment (pencils, paper, reference books) at hand. Don't waste time going back and forth to get things.

Be Neat!

Take a few minutes to straighten your desk. This can help to reduce day-dreaming.