Working from home is probably a new concept for a lot of us but making sure you’ve set up your space properly can have a huge impact on your productivity and wellbeing.

To make sure you create a learning environment that inspires and motivates you, we’ve come up with some top tips on how to set up your workspace while you’re studying from home. 

Got your own tip for setting up your home learning area? Use #ExeCollTogether on social media and we’ll share the best ones!  

Study Space  

First things first, think about where you’re setting up. Choosing the right space can make all the difference to boost your productivity. 

Trying to keep your work time and your free time separate can be a challenge when studying at home. If you’ve got the room, dedicate a specific area to be your new study space. Try and make sure it’s not in a busy place; you don’t need your family members buzzing around you all day while you’re trying to focus. 

There are also benefits to studying in a room which has a lot of natural light. Sunlight can increase your activity, your quality of life and can even improve your sleep. 

Think About How You’re Sitting  

If you’re lucky enough to have a desk or a table to study at, be sure to keep your body in a healthy posture. We suggest you: 

• Aim to have your computer or laptop screen at eye level. You can stack it up on some books if this helps. 
• Keep your mouse and keyboard close together so that you don’t need to stretch for them. 
• If possible, set your chair height so that your elbows bend at a 90-degree angle while you’re typing, your forearms should be parallel to the floor. 
• Avoid eyestrain by taking breaks and cleaning your monitor. 
• Sit up straight. 

Organise Your Desk 

You can use your physical space to help you get stuff done. One idea could be to create a production line on your desk. 

On the left you could have all the jobs you need to do, completed tasks can go on the right, leaving the space in front of you to be for the work you’re currently focusing on. Each time you complete a task, you move it over to the next pile. 

You could also use sticky notes to help you focus. Write down your weekly goals, stick them up around your study area, and stay inspired. 

Get Comfy  

It’s never a bad idea to add a few personal items to your study area, as they can help to make you more comfortable. Maybe you have a little study mascot or a souvenir that can sit on your desk and help to keep your mood up. 

You could also decorate your desk with a plant. Live plants in a work environment can help to boost productivity, and studies suggest that seeing the colour green frequently can help you to think more creatively. 

A desk lamp can also be a nice touch. It brings warmth to your study space, while also reducing strain on your eyes. Alternatively, you could hang some fairy lights up, making your work area extra cosy! 

Ultimately, it’s down to finding out what works best for you. If you have any additional tips that you think could help others during their studies, share them using the hashtag #ExeCollTogether.