Everything You Need to Pull an All-Nighter
As another school year gets underway, there are some constants you can’t forget. Between homework and library research, term papers and study sessions, it’s inevitable that there will be days you don’t have enough time to finish everything in your regular waking hours. Whether it’s a habit of procrastination, a big test or a heavy class load, college students are going to need to pull an all-nighter sooner or later. Some dread them, and some find they work better under the pressure of a looming deadline and lack of sleep, but either way, you better get used to them.
It’s definitely better to study on a regular basis so you aren’t forced to pull an all-night study session to get things done, but when you find yourself unable to avoid it, there are some things that will make your evening easier, and maybe even a little more enjoyable:
- Caffeine: Whether it’s in the form of coffee, chocolate, tablets or a fancy latte, caffeine is a must for pulling an all-nighter. It will help you stay awake so that you are alert enough to absorb the material you’re cramming into your brain at four in the morning.
- Music: Having some upbeat tunes will help keep you awake and the right songs may even motivate you to work harder. Stay away from the slow ballads though, because they might put you to sleep.
- Energy drinks: For those that aren’t affected by caffeine, energy drinks are an option to boost your alertness. Most of them include caffeine in addition to a lot of sugar and other stimulants, so it’s important to read the labels and find the best one for you. The last thing you want is to crash after the energy drink wears off.
- Snacks: Since you won’t be sleeping, you will need to eat regularly while you study. Heavy meals aren’t necessary, but healthy snacks can make a world of difference. Try things like fruit, yogurt, granola bars and veggies with dip. Greasy snacks should be avoided since your body isn’t used to eating that late, and these kinds of food can weigh you down and make you sleepy.
- Frequent breaks: You will more than likely want to move around and change positions while you’re studying. Take a break every hour or so for about five to ten minutes to rest your mind and body. Get up and do some stretching and if you feel yourself dozing off, splash some water on your face.
- School Supplies. You can’t forget the essentials. To make sure you have everything you need to study right, have plenty of pens and sharpened pencils, paper, your notes and your computer close by. You don’t want to have to waste time trying to find the actual assignment when the minutes are ticking by. Be sure to shut off your phone, too.
Spending an entire night studying is not something that is recommended, but it happens. With these tips, hopefully you can make the most of the time you spend hitting the books.
Also Read:
Top 5 Studying Tips for the High School Student
Study with a Partner to Succeed
Finding Time to Study
