35 Study Motivation Tips by Key Areas for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Study motivation is perhaps the most difficult to maintain consistently over a long period. Also exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, a lack of general and personal motivation to study has become quite common among learners in the online environment. Marked decreases in the quality of the learning experience and students’ mental health have been observed in online learners (Barrot, et al, 2021). This is perhaps the new normal for the foreseeable future.

Although there are different factors affecting motivation for different people, there are several common tips and practices we can try to improve and maintain studying motivation. The study motivation tips given here have been proven to work for many types of students.

This article will discuss learning strategies, personal factors, one’s environment, self motivation tips for students, and learning techniques that can help you increase study motivation and reduce stress.

Study Motivation Tips Table of Contents

1. Learning Strategies
2. How Can Advanced Education Propel Your Career?
3. Is an Affordable Online Degree the Right Investment for Your Future?
4. Personal Factors
5. Your Environment
6. Learning Techniques
7. How Can You Assess the Quality and Accreditation of Your Online Program?
8. Building Resilience
9. How Can Advanced Degrees Impact Financial Outcomes?
10. Which Online Degree Program Best Aligns With Your Professional Goals?
11. Can Advanced Education Opportunities Reignite Your Study Motivation?
12. How Can Affordable Online Bridge Programs Advance Your Nursing Career?

Learning Strategies

1. Set Goals

Remember goals are dreams with deadlines.

So how to get motivation to study? First, list some short-term goals under your long-term goals. Long-term goals may seem intimidating, but you can always list down what components make up each long-term goal and use them as a motivation for studying.

Example:

Goal: to memorize all the skeletal muscles

Short-term goals: for each muscle group (head, neck, thigh, leg, arm, chest, larynx, hand, arm, scalp, eyes, vertebral column, abdomen, pharynx, nose, mouth, tongue, and back) memorize the three groupings:

• Superficial muscles
• Intermediate muscles
• Deep muscles

2. Start with the Easy Information

Other motivational study tips include starting with easy information. This makes us feel successful in the initial parts of memorization. And once we feel successful, it becomes easier to proceed with the next and harder tasks.

For example, memorize the arm muscles first, as these are most familiar to anyone. Then memorize the hand muscles, and so on, progressing to the hardest groups. Note that some people memorize other parts faster, so it depends on the person which starting point is easiest.

3. Reward Yourself

Take these motivation to study examples: reward yourself from time to time and appreciate your work. Even for small accomplishments, this is a great way to stay motivated. Every time we are rewarded, the brain releases the hormone dopamine, triggering feelings of pleasure and happiness.

After a given task, especially a hard one, reward yourself with:

• A foot massage
• Chocolate as a motivation study
• 5 minutes of social media
• Photos of your favorite sceneries
• A two-minute chat with a friend

4. Set Fixed Schedules

But how to study with zero motivation? Well, you might find it useful to set a schedule and abide by it—it may be difficult at first, but once you get into a fixed routine, your mind will anticipate the times of the day that you study, and ease and relax into this routine.

5. Learn in Small BitesDon’t Cram

People learn better in smaller chunks than all at once in one big chunk.

Substituting cramming with mnemonics is more effective, according to a 2019 meta-study of 214 motivation for the study in research (Van de Lint and Bosman, 2019).

6. Reflect

Reflection is “a process where students describe their learning, how it changed, and how it might relate to future learning experiences “ (Purdue University, 2021). Ask yourself: what are your motivations to study? Reflection is also part of learning because we can generalize the main ideas, principles, and abstract concepts from experience.

Reflection increases depth of knowledge, identifies areas that are missing or deficient, personalizes and contextualizes knowledge, and provides comparative references in learning (Chang, 2019).

7. Find a Good Teacher/Tutor

A good teacher is a great find. He or she could be a great lecturer, professor, or personal tutor. What counts is that he/she can explain difficult concepts accurately and simply. Also, they should be able to make you more self-reliant by giving you more self-confidence and self-autonomy.

In a meta-study covering 144 studies and more than 79,000 students, it was found that the number one predictor of students’ need satisfaction and self-determined motivation is teacher autonomy support. It is a stronger factor than parental autonomy support (Bureau, 2021).

As we grow in knowledge, a positive feedback loop develops. Actually, a sense of personal competence is the most positive predictor of self-determined motivation  (Bureau, 2021). 

8. Find Study Partners

Another answer to how to get the motivation to study is finding people who are studying the same material and topics at the same time. This is quite effective, especially if you are not a good solo learner. Set study times with a classmate or two—keep the group small, and focus only on the topic at hand. 20- to 25-minute blocks would be ideal. Take a 5-minute break, and continue studying in 20- to 25-minute blocks.

9. Don’t Wait for Motivation to Strike!

We sometimes wait for the perfect time and motivation to study science and other topics to strike to do what we need to do—the perfect hour, situation, or setup that will finally make us feel motivated. You can even use a study motivation wallpaper to create a positive and inspiring study environment. But motivating situations may or may not come around, and if we wait too long, it may never come, or come too late.

How Can Advanced Education Propel Your Career?

Advanced education not only deepens subject knowledge but also opens pathways for professional growth and increased earning potential. Pursuing further credentials can enhance your expertise in a competitive job market, elevate your professional credibility, and unlock access to industry networks. Carefully evaluating progress and aligning study goals with career aspirations can provide measurable long-term benefits. For additional guidance on strategic qualifications, consider exploring affordable graduate certificate programs.

Is an Affordable Online Degree the Right Investment for Your Future?

Many learners wonder if pursuing an online degree can offer immediate career benefits and long-term growth. Data suggests that carefully selected, budget-friendly programs can enhance professional skills while mitigating financial risk. For example, exploring options such as the cheapest online teaching degree may open doors to diverse opportunities within the education sector. Evidence indicates that combining flexible study models with career-targeted curricula can foster adaptability and confidence in today's competitive job market.

Personal Factors

1. Acknowledge that You Have a Problem

The first step in solving a problem is acknowledging that there IS a problem.

Be honest.

If you procrastinate, feel anxiety, have a lot of negative thoughts, feel depressed, or feel extremely lethargic, then there is a problem.

Fortunately, you can fix this by changing your mindset and owning the problem.

• Acknowledge that you have a problem.
• Identify the specific problem.
• Analyze why you have the problem.
• Take steps to minimize thinking about or being affected by the problem.

2. You Can Change Your Mind

Neuroplasticity is “a general umbrella term that refers to the brain’s ability to modify, change, and adapt both structure and function throughout life and in response to experience" (Voss, et al, 2017). The brain is incredibly flexible and can be trained, especially at a young age.

Although older brains are harder to train, neurotherapeutic interventions targeting regulators of plasticity can effectively change our brains and mindsets (Voss, et al, 2017).

Thus, you can train your brain to get rid of negative habits and cultivate new and positive ones.

3. Locus of Control

One must realize that although there are many things we cannot control in our lives, there are some small things we can control and take credit for, known as our locus of control. This concept was originally formulated by Julian Rotter in the 1950s (Rotter, 1966). Developing one’s own locus of control is important and quite achievable. Being internally motivated comes naturally from analyzing one’s locus of control, and realizing that we do control most of our situation.

Identify, control, and own the things you can control. Be in control of your locus of control!

4. Connect with Your Source of Strength

What is your own source of emotional or spiritual strength? It can be one or more of the following, or you may have your own:

• Religion
• Spirituality
• Mother Earth
• Family
• Special friends
• Partner/spouse
• Pets

Which ever ones they are, connect with them regularly.

5. Quieting Your Mind—Prayer / Meditation

To be completely focused on our learning tasks, we need to first quiet our minds and detach ourselves from outside worries and pressures. Close your eyes, and either pray, meditate, or concentrate on a study motivation pic, or otherwise just shut your mind off from the world. Draw upon the quiet to refresh your mind.

6. Exercise!

Exercise releases endorphins, allowing a feeling of relief and enabling us to get our “second wind" or a new burst of fresh energy when we are tired.

Lift some weights, have a short jog, or do some aerobics/Pilates. Light exercise wakes us up and helps us concentrate.

7. Stretch!

Every 15 or so minutes, a little bit of stretching helps:

• Stretch your shoulders
• Stretch your arms
• Stretch your fingers and hands
• It will help you feel better and improve blood circulation.

8. Laugh!

Laughter also causes the release of endorphins or the “feel good hormones." Endorphins interact with opioid receptors in the brain, relieving pain and triggering feelings of pleasure (Manninen, et al, 2017). Just don’t overdo it or you won’t get anything done—short laughter breaks are ideal.

• Read a joke
• Read a meme
• Watch a two-minute comedy video
• Crack some jokes
• Get back to studying

9. Watch What You SayYou Are Listening

The words we say affect us subconsciously to a great degree, whether we realize it or not.

Negative self-talk encourages anxiety, fear, depression, and procrastination.

Avoid this by replacing it with positive and compassionate self-talk. This will bring more peace, satisfaction, relief, and a feeling of positive energy that makes you believe you can do anything.

Note: Most negative self-talk is exaggerated or downright untrue. Practice encouraging yourself with past accomplishments, good interactions with others, and with things you did that genuinely helped others.

10. Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Professional Help

If you find it nearly impossible to concentrate because of deep personal psychological problems, no amount of self-motivation will help you cross the bridge. The only option is to seek professional psychiatric help. Talking about some deeply-rooted memories may be the key to unblocking your psyche and help you regain control of your thoughts and emotions.

Your Environment

1. Sleep Better!

How many hours of sleep do you get on average? Not getting enough sleep can lead to many health disorders (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022)!

Some people need only 5 hours of sleep a day, while most need around eight hours. The quality of sleep is more important than the length of sleep.

To sleep better, try the following:

• Avoid blue light from electronics devices at night—turn off the screens of your phone, computer screen, and TV
• Wear blue-light filtering eyeglasses
• Set your computer monitor to nightlight mode (the monitor light adjusts to a warmer white balance at night)
• Wear sleep masks that cover your eyes entirely
• Play very soft classical piano songs while you sleep
• Avoid caffeine after the late afternoon
• Set your room to a cool temperature conducive to sleep
• Don’t watch movies on your TV or computer monitor just before sleeping
• Take a shower before sleeping
• Keep pets out of the bedroom
• Consider using dark mode for your computer operating system and programs

2. Clean Up Your Study Space/Workspace

A clear and uncluttered work or reading space is good. Ideally, choose a well-lit, bright space and white lights (LED or fluorescent lights) and avoid warm lights (they can make you feel sleepy). Place your books/devices within reach, but not cluttering your workspace.

3. Caffeine Helps!

Caffeine is a stimulant that wakes you up, enabling long periods of concentration. It affects people differently, though, so know your limits. For some people, caffeine causes drowsiness, so maybe stay away from coffee if this happens to you.

4. Use Background Music

Listening to classical music, particularly classical piano in the background, helps many people concentrate and feel relaxed while studying. A 2007 study in the journal Neuron stated that “Model-dependent and model-free analysis techniques provided converging evidence for activity in two distinct functional networks at the [music symphonies’] movement transition: a ventral fronto-temporal network associated with detecting salient events, followed in time by a dorsal fronto-parietal network associated with maintaining attention and updating working memory" (Sridharan, et al, 2007).

5. Use App and Website Blockers

We can easily get distracted by friends posting their latest photos or videos on social media, and we need to shut these off.

App and website blockers are available for both your computer and mobile devices. Some examples are Focus, Zero Willpower, Mindful Browsing, and Cold Turkey, among many others.

6. Get Up and Out of Bed

Staying in bed while working in front of your laptop may seem efficient, but in less than an hour, you will feel quite sleepy and disengaged. Get up and out of bed—sit in a chair by a desk and do your studies from there.

7. Dress Up!

Participating in Zoom lectures in pajamas was fun at first, but maybe you noticed that you have become too relaxed and easily distracted. Try these:

• Change into “working" clothes, jeans, a t-shirt, a dress, etc.
• Wear socks. Put on a pair of shoes.
• Dress up as if you’re going to an actual face-to-face class.

8. Get Out of Your House/Dorm and Go to an Outside Space

Getting out of the house or dorm room can liberate you from thoughts of taking bed naps or feeling too relaxed.

• Go to the library.
• Go to a coffee shop.
• Go to a shared co-working space.

This will force you to study.

Learning Techniques

The more we succeed in learning, the more motivated we will be to learn more. Here are some suggested learning techniques:

1. Try the Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro technique (Cirillo, 2006) is very popular among medical and pharmacy students.

Using a timer, block off 25 minutes with no distractions and do the following:

• Learn a specific topic within 25 minutes of intense concentration.
• Take a 5-minute break.
• Repeat for the next topics.
• After 20 cycles, take a 20-minute break.

2. Use Mnemonics

Mnemonic devices are very effective tools in memorizing lots of information (Mocko, 2017), popular among medical school and pharmacy students. Examples:

1) the order of precedence in mathematical operations:

PEMDAS = Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally

= Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication / Division (left to right), Addition / Subtraction (left to right).

2) The 12 cranial nerves:

Oh, Oh, Oh, To Touch and Feel Very Good Velvet. Such Heaven!

• O: olfactory nerve (CN I)
• O: optic nerve (CN II)
• O: oculomotor nerve (CN III)
• T: trochlear nerve (CN IV)
• T: trigeminal nerve(CN V)
• A: abducens nerve (CN VI)
• F: facial nerve (CN VII)
• A: auditory (or vestibulocochlear) nerve (CN VIII)
• G: glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX)
• V: vagus nerve (CN X)
• S: spinal accessory nerve (CN XI)
• H: hypoglossal (CN XII)

3. Vary Your Learning Materials

We usually learn from textbooks and class lecture videos, but other learning materials may help.

Try out videos on YouTube—search for specific channels for a more targeted and focused approach.

If learning biology, go out and identify the scientific names of the organisms you see.

If learning physics, watch and follow YouTube videos that illustrate the concepts with actual activities.

A great example of this is the physics of swimming.

4. Use the Feynman Technique

Try the Feynman Technique (Cam, (2020). Explain what you currently know to a kid or to a friend who doesn’t know about the subject matter. You’ll be more motivated to try to study and learn more to answer their questions, which may seem very simple to answer but require us to comprehend the subject matter. It works both as a learning and teaching tool.

5. Use Music

Are you musically inclined? Do you like rhymes? Then make a song of your study material! It’s fun, intuitive, and allows for much better retention.

There are numerous resources you can use for inspiration.

If you prefer to just learn from other educators’ materials, look for their YouTube channels.

A very popular and highly-recommended channel is acapellascience one of their most famous songs on physics, chemistry, biology, and math is “The Molecular Shape of You (Ed Sheeran Parody)".

Another popular one on physics and String Theory is sung to the tune of “Bohemian Rhapsody."

Some people also play loud music to pump themselves up—it’s not for everyone, but if it works for you, go for it! (Wear headphones, though).

6. Make Learning Fun

Try out the following to make memorizing fun:

• Flashcards
• Gaming applications
• Online games
• Puzzles
• Concept maps
• Crosswords
• Software or mobile phone applications

7. Write Down All the Information You Know Three Times

Write down all the information you know three times on three separate sheets of paper. You’ll find that after writing it down the first time, you’ll start remembering. By the third time, your mental image of the information would have begun to crystallize and stored in your memory.

8. Don’t Multitask

Multitasking, or doing several things simultaneously, is not a good way to study.  With multitasking, one just covers several things shallowly, and never fully completes any of the tasks. It makes tasks less efficient  and error-prone (Cleveland Clinic, 2021).

Focusing on a single task at a time with intense focus is much better.
So, do just one task at a time.

How Can You Assess the Quality and Accreditation of Your Online Program?

When evaluating an online education program, it is essential to verify its accreditation and industry recognition. Begin by reviewing the program’s accreditation status, ensuring it is approved by established accrediting bodies. Investigate key indicators such as curriculum rigor, faculty qualifications, and student outcomes. Additionally, consult independent reviews and educational research to gauge program effectiveness without relying solely on institutional claims. Using authoritative resources—such as comparisons of online teaching degrees—can provide further clarity on program quality and market reputation.

Building Resilience

Staying motivated during challenging study periods requires building resilience and developing strategies to manage stress, setbacks, and exhaustion. Here are some tips to strengthen resilience and maintain motivation:

• Develop a Growth Mindset: Embrace challenges as learning opportunities rather than roadblocks. A growth mindset helps you see difficulties as part of the learning process, making it easier to stay motivated through tough times.
• Practice Self-Compassion: Don’t be overly critical of setbacks or mistakes. Recognize that everyone experiences challenges, and treat yourself with kindness. This approach reduces stress and encourages persistence.
• Set Realistic Expectations: Avoid setting unattainable goals, which can lead to burnout. Instead, set smaller, achievable milestones and celebrate each accomplishment, no matter how minor it may seem.
• Use Positive Visualization: Envision yourself succeeding and achieving your study goals. Visualizing positive outcomes helps build confidence and reinforces motivation, especially during periods of self-doubt.
• Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise can boost your mood and energy levels, making it easier to push through study challenges. Even a short walk can help reset your focus and reduce stress.
• Connect with Supportive Peers: Surround yourself with friends or study groups that uplift and encourage you. Sharing challenges with others can provide emotional support, perspective, and helpful advice.
• Take Intentional Breaks: Short, intentional breaks prevent burnout and keep your energy steady. Try techniques like the Pomodoro Method, which incorporates breaks to refresh and recharge during study sessions.

How Can Advanced Degrees Impact Financial Outcomes?

Advanced education can play a pivotal role in enhancing earning potential through refined skill sets and increased market relevance. Specific programs often correlate with higher salary benchmarks, as professionals gain access to advanced methodologies and practical insights. For instance, evaluating a master degree in early childhood education salary offers concrete perspectives on how targeted qualifications can translate into improved financial outcomes. Assess your industry trends and salary data to determine the strategic value of further education in advancing your career.

Which Online Degree Program Best Aligns With Your Professional Goals?

To secure long-term career success, evaluate how well an online degree program aligns with measurable professional objectives. Review accreditation standards, curriculum relevance, and opportunities for mentorship and experiential learning before committing to a program. Analyze program flexibility and cost-effectiveness to ensure it supports continued growth. In this context, consider the cheapest online doctorate in organizational leadership as a viable option for developing strategic leadership and operational expertise.

Can Advanced Education Opportunities Reignite Your Study Motivation?

Advanced academic pursuits can provide a fresh perspective and structured challenges that boost intrinsic motivation. Engaging in higher education introduces innovative research methods and problem-solving approaches, which promote critical thinking and enhance self-efficacy. For learners seeking both academic rigor and practical insights, specialized programs can serve as a catalyst in sustaining long-term study enthusiasm. Explore options such as fully funded EdD programs online that are designed to integrate advanced learning with career development opportunities.

How Can Affordable Online Bridge Programs Advance Your Nursing Career?

Affordable online advanced degree pathways are integral for nursing professionals aspiring to expand their clinical leadership and academic expertise. Bridge programs, which streamline the transition from a Master of Science in Nursing to a Doctor of Education, empower nurses to integrate clinical practice with educational and administrative roles. Such programs offer flexible curricula, mentorship opportunities, and practical frameworks that are specifically designed to address the evolving demands of modern healthcare education. For more information on cost-effective options that support career progression, explore our article about cheap online MSN to EdD bridge programs.

You Can Do It!

The motivation to study will depend on you always, and what may work for others may not work for you. Try what works and find out why things don’t work, set your routine, always evaluate your progress, and stay positive. Remember your goals and your source of strength.

Practice mindfulness. Practice thankfulness.

You can do it!

Key Insights

• Importance of Study Motivation: Maintaining study motivation consistently over a long period is challenging, especially in an online learning environment exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Goal Setting: Breaking down long-term goals into manageable short-term goals can make daunting tasks more achievable and provide a clear pathway to success.
• Start Simple: Beginning with easier information can create a sense of accomplishment that encourages continued effort.
• Rewards and Schedules: Rewarding oneself for small achievements and adhering to a fixed study schedule can enhance motivation and productivity.
• Effective Learning Techniques: Using strategies such as the Pomodoro Technique, mnemonics, and the Feynman Technique can improve learning efficiency and retention.
• Personal Factors: Recognizing and addressing personal issues such as procrastination, anxiety, and negative self-talk is crucial for maintaining motivation.
• Environment Matters: A conducive study environment, adequate sleep, exercise, and minimizing distractions are essential for effective studying.
• Professional Help: Seeking professional help for deep-seated psychological issues can be necessary for those struggling with motivation despite using various self-help strategies.

FAQ

1. What are some effective strategies to maintain study motivation? Effective strategies to maintain study motivation include setting clear and achievable goals, starting with easier information to build confidence, rewarding oneself for small achievements, maintaining a fixed study schedule, and using learning techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique and mnemonics.
2. How can I set effective study goals? To set effective study goals, break down long-term goals into smaller, manageable short-term goals. This approach makes large tasks less intimidating and provides a clear pathway to success. For example, if your goal is to memorize all skeletal muscles, start by focusing on one muscle group at a time.
3. Why is it important to start with easier information when studying? Starting with easier information helps create a sense of accomplishment, which can boost confidence and motivation. This positive reinforcement makes it easier to tackle more challenging tasks as you progress.
4. What are some rewards I can use to motivate myself while studying? Rewards can include simple pleasures such as a foot massage, a piece of chocolate, a short social media break, looking at favorite photos, or a brief chat with a friend. These small incentives can provide motivation and make the study process more enjoyable.
5. How can I create an effective study schedule? An effective study schedule involves setting specific times for studying and sticking to them. Over time, your mind will anticipate and adapt to these study periods, making it easier to focus and be productive. Consistency is key to forming a successful routine.
6. What are some personal factors that can affect study motivation? Personal factors that can affect study motivation include procrastination, anxiety, negative self-talk, and overall mental health. Recognizing and addressing these issues through self-awareness, positive thinking, and seeking professional help if necessary can improve motivation.
7. How does the study environment impact motivation and productivity? A conducive study environment is crucial for maintaining motivation and productivity. This includes having a clean and organized workspace, minimizing distractions, ensuring adequate lighting, and using tools such as background music or app blockers to stay focused.
8. What is the Pomodoro Technique and how can it help with studying? The Pomodoro Technique involves studying in short, focused intervals (usually 25 minutes) followed by a short break (5 minutes). This method helps maintain high levels of concentration and prevents burnout. After several cycles, a longer break is taken to rest and recharge.
9. How can I use mnemonics to improve my study habits? Mnemonics are memory aids that help in retaining information. They often involve using acronyms, rhymes, or visual imagery to make the information more memorable. For example, using "PEMDAS" to remember the order of operations in math (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction).
10. When should I seek professional help for study motivation issues? If you find it nearly impossible to concentrate due to deep-seated psychological problems such as depression, anxiety, or persistent negative thoughts, seeking professional help is advisable. A mental health professional can provide the necessary support and strategies to address these issues and improve your study motivation.

References:

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