Even though we have the Spanish language in the title of this post it is mostly for any language or any activity you would like to do.

We all know how distracting it may be when we study with our computer by our side, especially when we are using a software or doing exercises on a website so today I am going to give you some tips to make the most out of your time and study more effectively.

01. Plan. Yes, have a to-do list of what you are going to study: verb conjugations, vocabulary, pronunciation, etc. This may sound a little too obvious, but these lists work!

02. No Facebook! It’s very easy (and tempting) to get caught up with new Facebook alerts so when you sit down to study, close your Facebook page and do not go there!

03. Set a time limit. Whether you are going to study for ten minutes or one hour, set a time limit and don’t stop until that time is up. Focus on your task, not looking at the time.

04. No noise. Where you study plays a major role in the success of your study session. So bring everything you need, go to a quiet place with good lighting and study!

05. Review and plan ahead. Before you start studying new topics make a point at reviewing what you have already covered because even though we think we already “know” that subject, there are certainly things that need reviewing and more attention. Before you actually stop studying, plan what you are going to study in your next session. This will also allow for long-term memory retention.

06. Take breaks during your study session if it is too long. Stretch your legs or go get a glass of water. Moving helps to keep your juices flowing and you will be able to concentrate better.

07. Ask your teacher. If you are taking classes at an institute or school, ask your teachers any questions you have when they come up during your study session. If these questions are fossilized then it will be harder to deal with them later on. Make sure to take notes.

08. Study when you are most alert. It is no good to start studying when you are really sleepy or in a period when you are not your sharpest. For example, I am not a morning person at all so I do all my studying in the evening, a couple of hours before I go to bed. Find out when you are your sharpest and make the best use of this time.

09. Be comfortable, but not too comfortable. Choose a chair that supports your back, but sit up straight, no slouching!

10. Be consistent and have a study schedule. Three times a week? Twice a day? It doesn’t matter, as long as you keep to it and get the most out of your study time.

Want more free resources to learn Spanish? Check out the other goodies we offer to help make your language learning efforts a daily habit.