Every college student knows about – and dreads – the “All Nighter.” These sleepless nights tend to occur at least once a semester as students cram in several days of work through the wee hours of the morning. Typically, the next day comes all too quickly, with comfy pillows loudly calling for you to throw in the towel. However, many college students have found that preparing properly for an All-Nighter can mean the difference between successfully accomplishing their work and passing out on top of a stack of textbooks.
Set Goals
At one point or another every college student stays up all night only to find that they have accomplished very little. They wonder what happened. If you set goals for yourself you are far more likely to accomplish what you need to do. Make sure your goals are reasonable, and then write them down so that you can motivate yourself as you study.
Plan your All-Nighter
After you have written out your goals, make a plan for how to accomplish them. Look at the time you have available. How can you use it most effectively? Schedule out blocks of time which you will use for each assignment. Also schedule in frequent (but short) break times. This will help you stay on track as you go through the night.
Stock up on Snacks
While some college students swear by black coffee and energy drinks, many find that these sugar and caffeine-charged beverages give a short buzz that eventually ends in deeper exhaustion. Instead, stock up on healthy snacks that will give your body real energy (i.e. fruits, veggies, cheese and crackers).
Find a Buddy
This does not work for everyone, but some college students find that they are more likely to stay on track during an All-Nighter if they have a partner in crime to keep them motivated. Choosing your best friend is probably not the greatest idea, as they would likely distract you. Instead, invite another stressed classmate to join you. Knowing that someone is going to wake you up if you nod at the computer can be a huge help.
Create a Study Atmosphere
Prepare the room for your All-Nighter with some bright light, some quiet, peppy music, and a solid chair. Collect all of your materials and put them in one place so that you don’t have to run around looking for pencils in the middle of the night.
Remember the old adage, “if you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Plan for your All-Nighter in advance you will set yourself up for success! To learn more about how to reinforce your all nighter to make it a success
