Included in this document are tips on things to consider when creating a workspace at home. Having a dedicated workspace while learning from home (i e. a special space where you go to do work that is used only for doing work) can help with motivation, productivity, and concentration.

If you Can’t Have your Own Physical Space…

Some of us have to share physical space with others, and there isn’t much we can do about it. But we can set up boundaries that can help us be productive, even with others around. Try:

Letting the people you live with know when you plan to work
Letting them know what the work is and what you need to do to complete it
Having a regular schedule of when you work
- Bonus points if you coordinate your schedule with their schedule so you can share a physical space but use it at different times of day
Checking in with them about their plans for a shared space
Using headphones or turning your back to others while working to help you focus
- Listening to music without words can help improve your concentration while working on academic tasks

How to Create a Workspace

Consider Your Work Needs

You want a space that makes sense for all of your assignments. For instance, the workspace of an English major will probably look very different from the workspace of an art major, because they have different needs to complete their assignments.

Once you know what type of work you’re doing, think of what kind of materials and storage space you need to do that work efficiently. If you’re an art student, maybe you need a space with a lot of light for drawing. If you’re writing a lot of papers, maybe you need a big surface area to spread out printed books and resources. If all your classes are 100% online and you can do everything you need to on a computer, maybe you just need somewhere to put that computer.

Find a Specific Work Zone

When creating your workspace, consider what type of environment you operate best in. Do you need total privacy, a little background noise, or easy access to the kitchen for coffee refills?

Try to define what derails you, so you can eliminate distractions. Is it the growing pile of dishes in the sink, for example, the street noise below your bedroom, or the appeal of the TV? Understanding what facilitates and hinders your work will help you identify the best place to set up shop.

Above all, it’s important to settle on a place you enjoy spending time in. This can be the tricky part, especially in homes with a lot of people. You might think “I enjoy spending time in bed, so that should be my workspace”. We strongly advise against homework in bed, as for most people trying to work in bed makes it very difficult to concentrate (or stay awake!) Plus, life gets boring staying in one room all day, and we believe your bed should be a safe space where you don’t have to worry about work. As much as possible, try to find a space in another part of your house.

Also, it may be hard to find a space that is “yours” when you live with others. If you don’t have a room of your own to work in, try setting yourself up so your back is turned towards the rest of the room where people might be. This can make your space feel more private and could help you focus!

Use What You Have

If you don’t have a spare room to transform into a home office — or even space for a full desk — get creative. Maybe try using an old armoire as a makeshift office, or set up your computer on an end table or TV dinner tray. You could also use a rolling file cart to store your laptop, papers, and other work materials.

There is no one right way to have a workspace, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your resources!

Choose a Filing Method

If you’re primarily doing work on your computer, make a folder for each course so you can keep all of your class materials organized. You may even want to make folders within each folder for each week’s work, or separate files based on assignment.

If you have some physical copies of work you’re doing, make a folder for each class to keep materials separate. If you don’t have folders, you could also make piles of papers organized by class, or organized by what is already done and what still needs to be done.

Filing helps to keep your workspace organized and functional, which can help reduce stress and keep your workspace comfortable!

Prioritize Comfort

Turn your work area into a place you love. If it is a room, consider painting it a color you like.

Experiment with different seating options. Ideally, you could have a supportive, ergonomically correct desk chair to work at. If that isn’t available to you, try different chairs, couches, and pillows to see what makes you most comfortable.

Other options: brighten your space with greenery, hang a favorite piece of art, set up speakers, or bring in a fan or small space heater. Your work area sets the mood for getting things done, so you want to make it a comfortable, inspiring space.

Keep It Organized

For a clean, uncluttered workspace, limit framed photos and knick-knacks. Reserve your desk space for everyday supplies, like your stapler, planner, or stash of pens, and display keepsakes on floating shelves so you have more room to work.

You also might try collecting loose wires, cords, and tech devices into a “technology box” for easy access, or using a bread tie to keep them tidy, and setting up a drop zone for papers you need to file. A discreet wall pocket or hanging file holder will keep your desk clear.

Tidy up your work area at least once a week. Get rid of any dirty dishes, used post-it notes, or other loose items.