study survival

Everyone has his/her own tried and true method for studying. However, at Queen’s, where studying is done by some with great intensity, it’s necessary to keep in mind a few key items.

Leave your house

Housemates are distracting. Your room is distracting. Your girlfriend/boyfriend is distracting. Your pornographic paraphernalia can be (for the single and sexually frustrated) distracting. Go to the library- and it’s the best if you go to Douglas or Bracken rather than Stauffer, as there are still the occasional few who feel the need to ‘club’ there, instead of working. If you must go to Stauff- the third floor is as low as you go.

Take frequent breaks

Some people feel that they can study for 16 hours straight and perform on an exam. Some people actually can do this- but few. The fact of the matter is that most brains only absorb information for so long (usually an hour and a half to two hours) before they shut down and you end up learning sweet f*#k all.

Drink Coffee- or not

If coffee keeps you awake, drink it. But be careful. Coffee can induce anxiety and jitters for some, which, while keeping you alert, will actually keep you from absorbing any information. You’ll basically sweat the night away, without doing anything productive. In this case, smack yourself on the face a few times or go outside- negative 30º is enough to wake up anyone.

Start early

No, we are not part of PASS, nor are we residence staff urging you to live healthily. It’s just logical, as much as it sucks, that it’s better to start studying (or researching- if you’re writing an essay) earlier rather than later. This is an institution where good marks (at least if you’re in serious arts courses – we don’t know about those fluffier programs) do not fall into your lap. So unless you’re talented, and some definitely are, just open up the textbook 12 hours earlier than you would normally. It’s not THAT bad.

Sleep Less

Taking a nap in order to have more 'energy' is a major study session killer. Sure, there are those days when you've been awake for over 48 hours and that six shot latte just ain't going to cut it. Then, count some sheep. However, if you just feel zonked, a quick power nap can often turn into hours of cozy snuggling, and an easy to write off excuse for not doing that Econ assignment. You are young, your body can handle not getting 13 hours of sleep one night. Grab a coffee, go for a jog, but for goodness sake, don't get under the covers, you might never emerge.

To eat or not to eat

It's important to stay fueled up when going for extended periods of time of studying. That said, there have been numerous studies done that suggest that our brains work better on an emptier stomach. We're not talking fasting here, just let that tummy grumble a bit. When you do grab some food, stick to foods that are low in sugar, high in fibre, and packed with protein or complex carbs. They'll keep you full and keep your energy riding high for hours. The ham, apple, cheddar sandwich at the Common Ground is fabulous addition to your study regimine.