I often talk about different learning styles because the more you understand yourself and the ways that you learn and work, the more productive you can be. For example, today I am writing this blog post sat on the sofa. That’s because I know that when I’m relaxed, I’m more creative. Curling up with the woodburner on (it’s a cold and raining autumnal day) creates an environment where I am more likely to be able to write and the ideas will flow. However, if I’m writing a report, I will want to sit at my desk and be in a formal situation.

Here are some prompts to help you think about how to get and use the right environment. You might find that you need a different environment for different tasks or subjects.

Informal or formal?

If you are answering questions, you might want a formal space, which will make sure you are used to sitting in the posture of an exam hall. If you are reading, creating, drafting an essay or doing something less formal, you could study in an unconventional setting which is the opposite of exam conditions.

Hot or Cold?

I find it hard to work if I’m cold. But if I’m too warm then I become sleepy. Getting the right temperature that works for you will enable you to focus.

Visually stimulating or plain?

Visual learners might want to have what they are learning around them. Some people find clutter distracting. Others are distracted by the motion of others around them and need to box themselves away.

Quiet or noisy?

Some people need noise, others quiet. I have different playlists for different energies, but others would find a bit of Lizzo playing incredibly offputting. If you get easily stressed by your work you might find some relaxing music helps you to work. Search ‘focus music’ on Youtube for some inspiration.

Are there smells that help?

Some people find that certain smells help them be alert, relax a racing mind, or give them clarity. Popular smells for learning include citrus, rosemary, frankincense, peppermint or coffee (read more here). Get yourself a diffuser and some essential oils and see what works for you. We can also use the ‘proust’ effect where we link certain elements of learning to the smells, so that it triggers the learning.

Environmental factors are one of the strands of the Dunn and Dunn learning styles. This is one of the three models of different learning styles that I recommend exploring for yourself and your child. You can find out more about the different learning styles with my e-book ‘A Guide to Learning Styles’.