Choose your study area. The area should be as free of unwanted distractions as possible. A bedroom or study away from the busier and louder areas in the house is an ideal location. Put enough lighting in the area to reduce eye strain. Consider your comfort when choosing a chair, table and desk. Ensure that all the supplies you will need while you're studying are in the workspace. These items would include pens, pencils, paper and any other supplies you'll need while you're working.
Set your study times and schedule them in a planner. Scheduling the time will encourage you to consider your study time to be formally included in your schedule and blocked off so that you aren't available for other activities during this time.
Reduce your stress. Do not over-schedule yourself. Prioritize your subjects according to difficulty and assignment due dates, and add some time in the schedule for much-needed study breaks.
Review your assignments before reading though the textbook chapters. Underline key words and phrases to look for while studying. Write these down on several adhesive notes. Apply the notes to the corresponding pages in your textbook or course materials as you read.
Take notes when reading textbooks. Use a separate notebook for each subject. If you own the textbooks, make notes in the margins and highlight areas that need further study or that coincide with a specific assignment. This aids in finding material for future reference and in recalling critical information necessary for exams or papers.
Coordinate schedules if you live with family or roommates. Let them know what your scheduled study times are and ask them if they have anything planned at home during those times. This way, you can ensure there won't be social gatherings or other activities at home during your scheduled study times that could distract you. You may have to re-arrange your study schedule based on others' activities.