10 Best Places to Study (Popular & Underrated Spaces)

Are you looking for the best places to study? Whether you’re a student looking for a place to focus on your studies or someone wanting to learn something new, there are plenty of great places where you can get your work done.

However, not all study locations are created equal. Some places offer a conducive learning atmosphere while others may lack the necessary resources for an effective studying experience. Therefore, it’s important to choose the right location that provides accessibility, resources, and a comfortable environment.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to study and why you should consider them. We’ll cover some popular and underrated study spaces, and of course, provide tips on how to make the most of these locations. So let’s get started and explore the best places to study where you can improve your skills, stay informed about developments in your field, and accelerate your career.

When trying to decide the best study space for you, it makes sense to consider access to higher education resources, and the environment. Here are our top 10 places to study:

1. Library

Libraries are one of the best places to study since they usually have a quiet atmosphere and provide access to books, journals, research databases, computers, and audio-visual materials. Many public libraries are equipped with study rooms that you can use to work on group projects or to study with classmates.

Tips on making the most of the library:

• Sign up for a library card to check out books
• Reserve a quiet study room in advance
• Organize study materials in a way that is easily accessible
• Attend library events and workshops to gain knowledge

2. Coffee Shops

A coffee shop provides a different atmosphere from many libraries or homes, which may give you the change of pace you need to concentrate and learn. They also offer comforting smells and background noises that can boost creativity and productivity. Coffee shops provide internet connectivity and refreshments, which can be helpful during long study sessions.

Tips on making the most of a coffee shop:

• Choose less busy times to ensure minimal noise or distractions
• Bring headphones and quiet music to help focus
• Get a loyalty card to get discounts on your favorite drink
• Support local coffee shops in your area

3. Park

Studying outdoors, especially in the park, can connect you with the calming effects of nature. Open spaces like a park or on college campuses provide a peaceful and relaxing environment that can enhance focus and concentration. The fresh air, chirping birds, and beautiful scenery can also relieve stress and encourage creativity.

Tips on making the most of the park: 

• Check the weather before going to the park
• Bring sunscreen, water, and other necessities
• Bring noise-canceling headphones to block out unwanted background noise
• Take advantage of the natural light and spend time outdoors

4. Empty Classroom

An empty classroom can be a great place to study because it is quiet and free from distractions. It can also be a good place to collaborate with classmates or find a quiet space for individual study. Most classrooms have access to computers, the Internet, and other resources necessary for studying.

Tips on making the most of an empty classroom:

• Check with administrators to see if you can use an empty classroom
• Bring all the supplies you need for studying (notebook, laptop, textbooks)
• Check the wifi availability before beginning your study session
• Clean up after yourself and leave the room as you found it

5. Bookstores

Bookstores are great places to study because they offer a quiet environment and a variety of books to browse when you need a break from studying. Many bookstores host special events such as readings, lectures, and workshops that can also help you gain knowledge and hone new skills.

Tips on making the most of bookstores:

• Visit at off-peak times when it’s less crowded
• Take advantage of discounts or loyalty programs offered by stores
• Explore the store to find new books and interesting resources
• Join local reading clubs or attend literary events hosted by the store

6. Your Dorm Room

While it may not be ideal, your dorm room is always an option. Consider adding a small desk or special chair just for study time so you don’t dread having to study in your room. If possible, keep the door closed during study sessions and set a time limit to avoid burnout or exhaustion.

Tips on making the most of your dorm room:

• Create an inviting atmosphere with decorations or lighting
• Organize your desk so you can easily access materials for studying
• Set boundaries with roommates so you have an uninterrupted study space
• Minimize distractions by turning off phones or other devices when studying
• Have snacks and a little caffeine on hand to keep energy levels up during long study sessions

7. Study Groups

Studying with a group can improve knowledge and help you feel more confident in your abilities. Study groups can provide peer support, a collaborative environment, and a way to break down the study material. It can be beneficial to create an environment where you can learn from one another, share knowledge, and build morale.

Tips on making the most of study groups:

• Establish a schedule to make sure every member is committed
• Assign roles to members of the group for organizational purposes
• Stay on-topic; don’t lose focus
• Make the group size appropriate: it’s important to keep the group large enough to have a variety of ideas and small enough to ensure everyone participates.

8. Co-Working Spaces

Consider joining a co-working space that offers several common rooms, dedicated workstations, reliable Wi-Fi, and a productive atmosphere conducive to focused studying. This can be a great option for collaborative studying with classmates or for working on individual projects.

Tips on making the most of co-working spaces:

• Choose one that is close to your school or home
• Check the hours before signing up; some co-working spaces may have limited availability
• Bring headphones or noise-canceling earbuds
• Take advantage of the networking opportunities available in co-working spaces
• Bring a reliable laptop for convenience and extra storage space

9. Student Lounge

Student lounges are often quiet places to study and provide a comfortable environment to focus on your studies. They also offer the opportunity to meet new friends and study with other college students who may have the same academic goals. A tutoring center may also be available in the lounge, which are great study spots for students who are struggling with certain courses.

Tips for making the most of student lounges:

• Choose a convenient lounge; it should be close to your dorm or classes
• Bring snacks and drinks, but make sure to clean up any messes you make
• Set realistic goals for yourself before beginning your session
• Take short breaks throughout your study session to keep from getting overwhelmed
• Keep noise levels low; respect the space of other students studying in the lounge

10. Dining Hall

Dining halls are great places to study because they offer a quiet environment and food to keep you energized. Just make sure to avoid peak meal times and be mindful of your noise levels.

Tips for making the most of dining halls:

• Choose a seat away from the food or beverage area to avoid foot traffic
• Bring all the supplies you need for studying (notebook, laptop, textbooks)
• Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi; it can be a great way to stay connected and get online resources
• Stay focused; avoid engaging in long conversations with your friends or another student

How do I choose a place to study?

When it comes to choosing a study spot, there are several key factors to consider.

Location is important. You don’t want to go too far out of your way to get to a study spot, so it’s best to pick something close by. Consider who else will be around. If you need absolute silence it’s probably not a good idea to study in a crowded cafe.

Also take into account the type of environment and the amenities offered such as Wi-Fi, snacks, and comfortable seating.

Think about the type of seating that is available, as comfort is key when studying for extended periods of time. Whether you prefer a cushioned chair, a desk with an ergonomic design, or a cozy beanbag chair, make sure that your study spot provides the comfort you need.

Time can also be a factor. Depending on your timeframe, look for spots that are open long enough to accommodate your study schedule. Some places may be open 24 hours while others may have limited hours.

Finally, think about the type of studying you’ll be doing. Are you looking for a place to focus on individual projects, or do you need an area with table space to collaborate with classmates? A local library, book store, community center, or study lounge would be great for individual studying, while a co-working space is better suited to group work.

In the end, it’s all about finding the best place for you and your needs. Whether you prefer to study alone in a campus library or at a friend’s house, finding the right place can help you stay focused and achieve better results.

Tips for how to study

When it comes to studying, finding the right environment can make all the difference. But even if you’re studying in a place that’s conducive to learning, there are other strategies and actionable steps you can take to improve your study sessions.

Start by setting clear goals for each study session, and break your study materials into manageable chunks that you can tackle one at a time.

Use active learning techniques, like quizzing yourself or summarizing material in your own words, to ensure you’re truly absorbing the information.

Switch it up. Change the locations and methods you use to study. If you’ve been studying in your dorm room, try going to the park or the library. If you’ve been studying from textbooks, try using apps or websites to help keep things fresh. Or if you’ve been studying alone for weeks, try working with a study buddy or joining a study group. This can provide accountability and help you tackle difficult material together. 

Even if you don’t have time to switch up the location or method, you can take a break and do something completely different for 15 minutes—such as stretching, eating a snack, or going for a walk—to give your brain a break and come back feeling refreshed.

Finally, don’t forget to reward yourself for your hard work. Whether it’s a leisurely activity or something more indulgent, giving yourself recognition will encourage you to keep pushing yourself and stay motivated along the way.

What are the best countries for studying abroad?

If you’re an international student looking for a study abroad destination, the possibilities are endless. From traditional college towns with bustling cities to quiet corners of cozy coffee shops in European countries, you’re sure to find your perfect place.

Studying abroad is a great way to travel and see the world while not getting behind on your degree. Here are some of the top study abroad destinations:

1. Spain

Great for language learning and arts and culture

2. United Kingdom

Great for world-class education and outdoor exploration

3. Italy

Best for foodies

4. France

Great for culture and history

5. Germany

A popular destination for U.S. students studying abroad

6. Australia

Great for active lifestyles

7. China

A popular destination for U.S. students studying abroad

8. Japan

Great for STEM students

9. South Korea

Great for cultural immersion

10. Sweden

Great for sustainability

Other European countries to study abroad include Prague in the Czech Republic, and the Netherlands. When choosing a study abroad destination, it’s important to consider key points such as the cost of living, tuition costs, and popular subjects. It’s also helpful to research the best schools in each country and their QS World University Ranking.

Studying in the right environment can make a huge difference in how productive and successful your study session is. Fortunately, there are many great places to study, each offering a unique experience.

From the cozy beanbag chairs of a café to the ergonomic desks of an academic library, there’s something for everyone. Co-working spaces and study lounge areas are great for group work, while a library coffee shop offers a peaceful refuge for individual studies. International students have the opportunity to explore and learn at large universities in exciting destinations around the world.

Take a break and explore one of these 10 best places to study, and reap the rewards of finding a spot that works for you.

Happy studying!