How to Motivate Yourself to Study - Science-Backed Tips

October 4, 2021

Studying can sometimes feel daunting and stressful. You might find yourself forced to read notes, finish homework, and memorise concepts without even understanding them in the first place just to get the study session done. Fortunately, there are several ways to get back on track. Here are some science-backed tips to motivate yourself to study:

1. Acknowledge that you cannot be motivated all the time

Motivation comes and goes, and your best will look different each day. For example, today, you might be energised and ready to finish all your school-related tasks; tomorrow, you might feel like sleeping all day. 

Keep in mind that motivation is not linear. Although you can sometimes force yourself to stay motivated, it does not successfully work all the time. In addition, trying too hard to make motivation come to you can eventually lead to burnout. So instead of beating yourself up for not being motivated enough, practice self-compassion. Just stay positive, and motivation will ultimately come to you again.

2. Set realistic goals

Setting goals for yourself can inspire you to study hard. To do this, create short-term and long-term goals. Short-term ones are easier to obtain and let you get a sense of satisfaction right away, while long-term ones give you something to look forward to in exchange for your hard work. Don’t forget to ensure they are realistic and flexible because having seemingly impossible goals can lead to significant amounts of stress.

3. Exercise regularly

It’s no secret that regular exercise keeps you strong, fit, and healthy, but it’s essential to know that its benefits go beyond just the physical aspect. When you exercise, your blood is pumped more vigorously throughout your body. As a result, oxygen, nutrients, and glucose are transported to your brain, making you more energised to function better.

One way to benefit from this is to take short workout breaks during your study sessions. For example, do some arm raises, jumping jacks, quick stretches in the middle of studying. Doing this will stimulate your mind.

4. Avoid focusing on memorisation

Memorisation is part of learning, but this strategy may not help you understand the lessons. The information you memorise is often stored in your short-term memory bank, which can eventually be eliminated to make room for other short-term memories. Instead of focusing on memorisation, concentrate on actually retaining the information and properly learning the material. 

5. Hire a tutor

A tutor can serve as your study buddy, role model, teacher, and accountability partner. They can provide you with an exceptional learning experience that can drive you to study and learn. For example, if you seek physics tutoring from us, we can help you understand the lessons so that the concepts covered don’t seem daunting to you anymore. As you improve your academic skills and build your confidence, you can eventually find your motivation.

Conclusion

Motivation can sometimes be challenging to find when studying. It can lead to poor concentration and poor academic performance. Fortunately, you can feel as motivated as ever by following the tips and tricks in this guide. Meanwhile, if you are looking for HSC tutoring, consider reaching out to our experienced tutors.

Whether you are looking for academic assistance through English, math, or biology tutoring in Penrith, our expert tutors at Young Growth Academy who are invested in your development can help you achieve your goals. We offer comprehensive resources tailored to meet your needs. Book your trial today!