A desk piled high with scattered notes, week old snack wrappers, random post-it notes, and a few coffee mugs from last nights cram session – we’ve all been there. This environment however, is no place to lay down the books. Instead, take the time to clear off a workspace for better efficiency while studying. You’ll work more efficiently this way.
Benefits a clear desk can provide…
- More workspace - A larger workspace means you can spread out your notes and textbook while you are studying for a test.
- Fewer distractions – A jumbled desk is no place to be studying. Too many distractions can easily cause the mind to wonder. The only thing your eyes should be looking at is your study material. Trash and other items – especially cell phones, are nothing but in the way.
- Better organization – Having to scrounge through a disarray of notes and other junk can kill an otherwise productive study session. This is why it’s important to always keep a clear desk. No more getting your notes mixed up with the scattered paper covering your desk.
Tips for a Clear Desk
- Get out study materials for one subject at a time.
- Use some kind of cabinet or other storage system close to your desk to store items, rather than leaving them on your desk.
- Clear the desk before you start using it.
- Use stacks. For example stack papers with like papers, and textbooks in separate piles.
- Leave the eating for the kitchen, or at least another table.
An Example Desk
- Lamp – Provides good lighting.
- Notes – For reviewing, as well as recording new information.
- Textbook – To reread and review chapters.
- Computer – Great study tool, but can be abused.
What do you think?
Can having a clear desk provide you with a better atmosphere to work in? What kind of work environment do you prefer?
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Mohammad Arfeen
Great post! All of these are great suggestions, I've noticed my productivity increase since I cleared off my desk. Also ikea is a great place to get cheap desklamps, and desks for that matter.
Dan Northern
Thanks Mohammad. It does really make a difference.
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For me a clear desk also means that I have a space for new ideas and possibilities to finish my work better. Thank you for sharing this information since sometimes I feel so hard to clean my own desk. Once again thank you….
Thomas
I found it was hard to fit all my computer stuff on my desk and still have enough space to work, so I made a little shelf for the monitors – 5 minutes of work, and the difference was amazing! Here's a pic:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=1067183&…
Dan Northern
Nice setup Thomas
Cody Lettau
Nice setup you have here! Doesn't having multiple monitors really increase your productivity?
Andre
Clear Desk = A Clear Mind
Great Post!
Cody Lettau
I agree with this article completely! It is so important to have a clutter-free desk! Check out my setup at http://collegeconundrum.com/?p=313. Let me know what you think of my desk and setup!
Cody
Dan N
I like your desk. It's cool how it is supported by rope and has the ability to fold up if needed. Keeping it very clean — I like it.
Cody Lettau
Thanks Dan! I'm a big fan of a huge desk and a lot of free space. Lots of monitors is always a plus as well!
Desiree Furman
Thanks for giving me Tips on what to do to make my desk organize. I will apply it in my daily life. Thank you
Maxwell
Hi Dan, thanks for your wonderful post! You’ve got some pretty beautiful Computer Desks For Home. They look so cool. I’m thinking of buying one next month. I have two beautiful kids, and they will be going to school soon, so a desk can be really handy. Thanks!
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I like your explanation. I got an idea in setting a study table. I am looking forward for more updates in this post.
Evelyn
For me a clear desk also means that I have a space for new ideas and possibilities to finish my work better. Thank you for sharing this information since sometimes I feel so hard to clean my own desk. Once again thank you….
Graham
I agree with Andre, clear desk=clear mind. It’s a lot easier for to study or doing our homework in a clean desk. Believe it or not, it can also give us space for new inspiration and new ideas to come.
Zach Clovers
Nice post! Having a clear desk gives you more concentration on the work your doing! Gives you a quiet mood for studying. You can always have a place for putting all your papers arranged or not, as long you wont be seeing them while studying.