As a UCT Online High School learner, you’re only one-click away from your bed to your desk, which is wonderful news for those of us who like to sleep in. 

As fun as studying history from beneath your blankets sounds, we’ve found that learning works best when sitting at your own dedicated desk. With our top tips, you’ll be grafting like a pro in no time.

TL;DR

1. Claim your space
2. Get the right chair
3. Put your screen in the right place
4. Look for natural light
5. Keep your desk tidy
6. Make it yours

1. Claim your space 

The first thing you want to do is clearly define a separate workspace from the rest of your house and make it your own. 

Whether it’s a desk or the ‘office end’ of your dining room table, keep the space where you work consistent. 

Let everyone else at home know that once you’re at your desk you mean business and you shouldn’t be disturbed unless it’s an emergency. 

2. Get the right chair

Having a good, ergonomic chair is essential for online learners. Try to find a chair that can be adjusted to the right height and that supports your back while you work. 

‍Studies show that having the right chair can help prevent musculoskeletal symptoms (things like strain and/or pain associated with our joints, bones and muscles). 

‍Experts also recommend that you stand and stretch every 30 minutes when working at a desk. This will help you to maintain flexibility and reduce the risk of back, neck and upper limb problems. 

If you need help remembering to take stretch breaks, you can download apps like Stand Up! or Work Break to set reminders.

In all likelihood, you’ll be spending a large portion of your learning life sitting at a desk. Develop good habits and posture now and your back will thank you for it later. 

Here’s how you should sit at your desk.

3. Put your screen in the right place

The top of your computer screen should be level with your eyes. Otherwise, you’ll bend your neck down while working, which could end up straining your neck and shoulders over time. If you have one, you can use a laptop or monitor stand to get the placement right, but a pile of books can also work well. 

You also don’t want to sit too close to the screen, so it should be at least 50 cm away from you. This will also give you plenty of space for any notebooks or other resources you may like to use when studying. 

‍Looking for other resources to help you on your learning journey? Read our article on the top 10 must-have apps for online learners.

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4. Look for natural light

If you can, set up somewhere where there’s lots of natural light. Many studies prove that natural light helps to lift mood and reduce stress. That’s because it prompts our bodies to release serotonin – which is essential to mood. Daylight also impacts our focus and productivity levels. A window with a view is first prize. 

However, if natural light isn’t an option, take lots of breaks outside to get some fresh air and sunshine. A few minutes outside can have a profound effect on both your mood and motivation, studies show. 

5. Keep your desk tidy 

Some of us are naturally messier than others and that’s perfectly okay, but a tidy desk can help you to stay focused and get into a flow state. But wait, what’s a flow state? That’s a way of describing those times when you are fully focused on whatever it is you’re doing. Think being “in the zone”. 

If your desk is too cluttered or messy, you can start to feel disorganised and overwhelmed. And that can make it a lot harder to stay focused on your studies. 

‍Bonus tip: A clutter-free computer desktop has the same effect as a neat and tidy desk. It’s good practice to keep all your notes and assignments labelled and filed away properly.  

6. Make it yours

Your workspace is a reflection of you and should be as attractive and inviting as possible without causing you distraction. 

Decorate it with your favourite mementos and trinkets. Add a desk plant and some photos of the people that you love. Get a vase and fill it with flowers – whatever brings you joy and improves the experience of working in this space.

Access more resources

For more tips and tricks to help you succeed as a UCT Online High School learner, head over to our other blog posts that cover topics like coping during exams and must-have apps for online learners.