Nursing school requires a lot of studying. Between pharmacology, pathophysiology, and preparing for clinicals, you’ll spend significant time with your notes and textbooks. Where you choose to study can make a real difference in how well you retain information and stay focused.
The good news is that there’s no single “right” place to study. The best spot depends on what you’re studying, how you learn, and what helps you concentrate. This post will help you explore your options so you can find what works for you.
Why does your study environment matter in nursing school?
Your surroundings affect your ability to focus and absorb information. A noisy, distracting space can make it harder to concentrate on complex material. On the other hand, a quiet environment might feel isolating when you need to talk through concepts with classmates.
Nursing students juggle a wide range of subjects and study methods. Some days you’ll need silence to memorize drug classifications. Other days you’ll benefit from a group setting to quiz each other before an exam. Understanding how your environment impacts your focus helps you make smarter choices about where to study.
Finding the right spot can also reduce stress. When you have a go-to location that works for you, it’s easier to settle into a routine and make the most of your study time.
What are the best on-campus places to study?
Depending on your campus, you may have a few on-campus options worth exploring. Each has its own strengths depending on what kind of studying you need to do.
Empty Classrooms
Empty classrooms can be a hidden gem. If you find one that’s not in use, you’ll have space to spread out your materials, practice skills, or review lecture slides on a larger screen. Just check with campus staff to make sure the room is available.
Student Lounges and Common Areas
Student lounges and common areas work well for lighter review or group study sessions. These spaces tend to have more background noise, so they’re better suited for collaborative work than deep concentration. They’re also a good option when you need a break from complete silence.
Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor spaces like courtyards or benches can offer a refreshing change of scenery. Fresh air and natural light can help you feel more alert, especially during long study days. Just be mindful of weather and potential distractions.
What are the best off-campus places to study?
Sometimes getting away from campus helps you focus. Off-campus options give you more flexibility, especially if your schedule includes gaps between classes or clinical rotations.
Your Home
Your home can be one of the most convenient places to study. You control the environment, and you don’t have to commute. The key is creating a dedicated space that signals “study time” to your brain. A consistent setup with good lighting and minimal distractions makes a difference.
Coffee Shops
Coffee shops work well for some students who find a moderate level of background noise helpful. The ambient buzz can keep you alert without being overwhelming. Just be aware of your own tendencies. If you find yourself people-watching instead of reading, a coffee shop might not be your best fit.
Public Libraries
Public libraries are another strong option. They offer quiet spaces, free WiFi, and extended hours. If you need a distraction-free environment away from home, a local branch can be a reliable choice.
How do you choose the right spot for the type of studying you’re doing?
Different tasks call for different environments. Matching your study spot to the work at hand helps you use your time more effectively.
For memorization and focused reading, look for quiet spaces with minimal distractions. This is when empty classrooms, a quiet corner at home, or a public library work best. You need to concentrate without interruptions to commit information to memory.
For group study and review sessions, choose a space where you can talk freely. Study rooms, student lounges, or a classmate’s living room give you the flexibility to quiz each other and discuss concepts out loud.
For lighter review or practice questions, a coffee shop or common area might be enough. These tasks don’t require the same level of deep focus, so a little background activity won’t hurt.
Pay attention to how you feel in different settings. If you notice you’re more productive in certain spots, lean into that. Your ideal environment might be different from your classmates’, and that’s okay.
What should you bring to make any study spot work for you?
A few essentials can help you stay productive no matter where you end up:
- Headphones to block out noise or signal to others that you’re focused
- Chargers and a power bank to keep your devices running
- Snacks and water to stay energized
- A small bag or pouch with pens, highlighters, and sticky notes
- A light sweater or jacket since temperatures can fluctuate and make it harder to concentrate
Find What Works for You
There’s no perfect study spot that works for every nursing student. The best approach is to experiment with different environments and pay attention to where you feel most focused and productive. As you move through your program, your needs might change, and that’s normal.
The important thing is to be intentional about where you study. A little planning goes a long way toward making your study time count.
Start Your Future in Nursing Today
If you’re considering a career as a registered nurse (RN), Arizona College of Nursing is here to help you pursue your dream. Our BSN program enables you to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in just 3 years or less with qualifying transfer credits. We’ve helped hundreds of students to earn a BSN degree and enter the nursing profession – and we’re ready to support you on your path to becoming an RN.
Why Choose Arizona College of Nursing?
- Earn a BSN degree in 3 years or less with eligible transfer credits
- Campus locations throughout the US
- Night classes for general education courses
- Hybrid Online/In-Person format for general education classes
- Nursing education is all we do
- CCNE-Accredited Program*
- NCLEX-RN success coaches and exam preparation class
- Financial aid available to those who qualify
Discover Your Path to a Career in Nursing
Information in this post is accurate as of December 22, 2025.
*The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program at Arizona College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (https://www.aacnnursing.org/). All Arizona College of Nursing and Arizona College campuses are institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (https://www.abhes.org/), a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency.