How to Stay Organized while Studying an Online Degree


Monday, January 11, 2021

It can be tricky to stay organized when studying an online degree and falling behind can be really easy. That’s why here are some tips you can follow that will help you stay organized while pursuing an online degree through distance learning. 



Studying through online learning has its perks. The flexibility and independence this kind of programmes give students is one of the reasons that makes distance learning more and more popular. The fact they don’t have to attend classes in person, together with not having to commute or worry about travel expenses and everything that comes with studying an in-person degree make students flock to online learning. 

However, the great deal of flexibility that is a great advantage distance learning offers turns into a disadvantage when it means falling behind for not being able to keep track of the online programme by themselves. 

For that reason, there are some strategies you can use to stay organized! Take a look at the following organizational strategies that will help you in your path through online classes. These tips will help you no matter what level of online degree you are studying, whether it is an online bachelor’s, an online master’s, an online doctorate, an online certificate, etc.

1. Look for a quiet and comfortable spot to attend online classes and study


Another advantage that online learning offers is the fact that you can choose your favourite spot to study. You can study from the comfort of your home, a coffee place, a park, wherever you feel more comfortable and concentrated. 

The place you choose must be suitable for you to focus on your studies and not get distracted. That’s why you should choose a spot that is free from distractions and has enough room for everything you need, including books, a computer, a desk, and everything you can think of that you’ll be using while studying.

2. Make sure the workspace you choose works for you. 


Since you’ll be most probably studying from home, it can be really easy to distract yourself and want to relax. For this reason, you need to make sure the space you choose is not the place where you generally relax, such as your bedroom or living room. You need to associate the area you choose with learning. 

There are many spots you can choose and you need to make sure it works for you.

3. The space you choose must be comfortable as well.


Having a comfortable space can go a long way in allowing you to stay mentally focused on your online studies. Make sure you prepare the space you chose properly in order for you to make the most out of every study session. A desk and a comfortable chair will allow you to be in a physically comfortable position, which will allow you to concentrate instead of focusing on how uncomfortable the chair is.

4. Keep course material organized on your computer. 


It is essential that you have easy access to online coursework materials wherever you go. And, what’s better than to keep it in your portable computer? If you organize your online material properly in your computer, you’ll have ready access to it anywhere you go. If the materials on your computer aren’t organized properly, you will waste time trying to find them. Instead, you can create folders with each subject and further subcategorize them by units or whatever organizational structure you feel comfortable with.

5. Schedule your time beforehand.


Keeping track of deadlines and exam dates is the best way to avoid missing assignments or cramming the night before the exam. Making sure you familiarize yourself with the syllabus, the due dates and the goals of the subject will help you stay organized. 

6. Avoid any distractions but, specifically, social media. 


Social media applications are well-known for making us lose track of time. Avoid having your phone nearby when studying through online learning because, this way, you’ll avoid getting distracted by notifications. 

7. Make sure you have a support system.


Seeking support is always important, especially when studying through online learning . Reaching out to friends and family and sharing your experience will help you feel supported. 

You can also reach out to your professors whenever you need them! 

You can even create a study group if you feel it would help you stay focused. Having others in your same situation will help you keep track of your studies and you will help others do the same! Working in teams is the best way to make sure you don’t fall behind!




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