Although we are only in the 6th week of the semester, I, as well as many of my friends, have already stayed up really late completing assignments and studying for tests. If it was only one night per week it wouldn't be considered such a huge problem, but students are staying up night after night without getting much sleep. I would like to inform you of a few useful tips that will help you be more task-oriented so you can complete your to-do list at a decent hour and get some much-needed sleep.

1.) Have an organized study space!

"When your environment is cluttered, the chaos restricts your ability to focus." Whether you study in the library, at home, or somewhere else, you need to have an organized study area. A messy room will prevent you from being able to focus on the task you should be working on. I'm a stress cleaner, so when I study in a place that isn't clean, I have to fight the urge to clean it. The realization of this situation is that when you are distracted by an untidy work area, you aren't focused on what you should be focused on, and you are wasting valuable time. Every minute in our day counts, so don't waste them.

2.) Avoid distractions!

To avoid any added stress, study in a clean, distraction-free environment. We are very fortunate to live in a time with technology because it allows us to use various resources. Although there are many benefits of technology, one of the downsides of it is that it can be a big distraction. Whether it be music, messages from a crush or friend, social media, or another app, it's easy to get distracted by a phone or a computer. When I'm studying with a group of friends, I usually give my phone to a friend, who doesn't get distracted by technology. This allows me to stay focused on what I should be doing instead of playing on my phone.

If you need a background distraction noise, such as the TV or music to study, make sure not to get distracted by it. I get distracted very easily. When I listen to music with lyrics, I can't help but sing along. I realized that's it's best for me to listen to music without lyrics while I'm studying. I usually listen to a K-pop piano playlist or classical music. "Studies supporting this conclusion have recommended that music without lyrics be used; or that if music with words is used, the words should either be familiar or boring!" Music without lyrics has actually helped me stay more focused on my studies, and I know it can help you too if you are having this same problem.

3.) Reward yourself!

"Focus on the success you will achieve and the joy you will feel." This doesn't mean reward yourself after each little thing is done. Wait until a big test is over or when you've caught up on all of your assignments. On Fridays, after all my assignments are completed for the week, I give myself a prize. It's usually just an hour or so of Netflix, but now that my favorite TV-shows, Law and Order S.V.U. and Grey's Anatomy, are back on for the fall, I will watch them. It doesn't need to be something extravagant. Whether it be hanging out with friends, Netflix, or sleep, just do something you enjoy. Having something to look forward to at the end of the day or week will help you feel more motivated to complete your assignments.