Online Study Tips: How to Stay Focused and Motivated at Home

Online learning has made it easier than ever to upskill yourself from the comfort of home, offering the freedom and flexibility that in-person learning often lacks. But what happens when you get a little too comfortable at home?

Whether it's juggling household chores or procrastinating on the couch, studying at home brings the extra challenge of staying focused and motivated. However, there are a whole load of tactics you can use to stay on track with your studies.

So if you’re undertaking a new online qualification or simply boosting your skills, check out these online study tips.

Create a study space that works for you

One of the biggest advantages of studying at home is being able to create a dedicated study space that works for you. Adding some plants and some colourful artwork can help make it feel inviting. However, a space that’s too relaxed (including the couch!) can sometimes make it difficult to stay productive.

Try to create a dedicated study area that is, or at least feels, separate from where you relax, whether it’s a desk in the corner of your room or a spot by the window. Keep your workspace tidy, well-lit, and stocked with all your study essentials, so you don't waste time searching for things mid-study.

For those of us who struggle with distractions, especially learners with ADHD, this is even more important. A clutter-free and organised space can significantly help you maintain focus.

Develop a timetable for studying at home

Creating a timetable for studying at home is a great way to help you manage your time effectively.

Time management is crucial for staying motivated, especially when you’re juggling multiple responsibilities. Make a weekly or daily plan that outlines your study sessions, breaks, and other commitments. Apps like the TimeTree app can help with scheduling your time, allowing you to plan tasks, share your schedules, and set reminders to stay on track.

Remember to include some flexibility in your schedule to accommodate unexpected tasks or moments when you might feel less productive too - it happens! Following a timetable for study at home will also help you develop a routine, making it easier to get into the flow of studying each time you sit down to work.

Set achievable goals

One core element of staying motivated is setting goals that are realistic and measurable. Whether it’s completing a chapter or practising a new skill regularly, breaking your workload into smaller tasks help make it feel more manageable. And don’t forget to celebrate when you reach these goals - celebrating these small wins along the way can give you the momentum you need to keep going.

For example, set goals like “study for 1 hour today” or “complete two lessons by the end of the week”. As you hit each milestone, you'll feel a sense of achievement. In fact, setting goals, working to achieve them and celebrating when you do is one of the best motivation study tips we can recommend.

Use a timer for focus

To increase your focus during online study sessions, try using the Pomodoro technique, which involves working for short, intense periods followed by short breaks. Set a timer for 25 minutes of study, and then take a 5-minute break. This method helps prevent burnout and improves concentration.

If you find yourself losing focus or getting distracted, remind yourself that it's just 25 minutes - an achievable block of time. By repeating this method, you’ll accomplish more without feeling overwhelmed. Try it! The Pomodoro technique has been proven to be one of the most effective studying at home tips for maintaining focus.

Stay connected

Studying remotely doesn’t mean you have to study alone. Stay connected with fellow learners through online forums or messages on your learning portal. This can keep you motivated and provide valuable support when you’re stuck or need a different perspective.

Sharing experiences, tips, and encouragement with others can also help you keep the momentum going. Whether you’re swapping study tips for online learners or collaborating on assignments, staying connected can make a big difference.

Take regular breaks and move around

Sitting for long periods can be mentally exhausting, so make sure to take regular breaks to refresh your mind and body. Even just a short walk or stretch can help you reset your focus. If you're working long hours, try using your break times to grab a healthy snack, do some light exercise, or even just step outside for some fresh air.

Taking care of your physical health, especially when studying at home, is a particularly important part of maintaining your mental stamina. It’s often overlooked but is one of the most essential study tips and motivation strategies.

Stay organised

Keeping your study materials organised can also enhance your productivity. Keep all your notes, resources, and assignments in one place – this could be within your online learning portal or a folder on your computer. This way, you’ll spend less time searching for what you need when it's time to study.

Don’t forget that digital tools like Google Docs, cloud storage, and apps like TimeTree can help you stay on top of your work and share it easily with other learners or your tutors.

Study online at home FAQs

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