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Top Learning Tips for Springboard Success

Whether you're new to online learning or looking to sharpen your skills, we've compiled a list of evidence-based tips and student-tested strategies to help you succeed. These insights come from conversations with students and alumni, as well as research into best practices for online education. Let's set you up for success!


Study Tips


  1. Set Dedicated Study Time
    1. Treat your study time as a non-negotiable commitment, just like a business meeting or in-person class. Identify specific times when you can focus solely on coursework and block these in your calendar. Show up consistently to build momentum and create a routine.
    2. Pro Tip: Use calendar reminders and set alarms to keep you on track!
  2. Find an Accountability Buddy
    1. Partner with a friend, family member, or fellow student to set goals and check in regularly. Share your progress, celebrate wins, and reflect on areas to improve. An accountability buddy helps keep you motivated and consistent.
    2. Research Insight: Studies show that peer accountability significantly increases goal achievement.
  3. Track Your Time
    1. Use an activity log to track how you're spending your time each day. This will help you identify areas where you might be losing valuable study time, such as excessive social media use or multitasking.
    2. Tool Suggestions: Apps like Toggl or RescueTime can help you monitor your habits.
  4. Minimize Distractions
    1. Identify your most common distractions and take steps to minimize them. Turn off notifications, close unrelated tabs, and set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode during study sessions.
    2. Research Insight: Reducing digital distractions can increase productivity by up to 40%.
  5. Overestimate Task Time
    1. We often underestimate how long tasks take, leading to stress and rushed work. Add an extra 50% to your initial time estimate to account for unforeseen challenges.
  6. Use the Pomodoro Technique
    1. Break your study sessions into 25-minute intervals with 5-minute breaks. This technique helps maintain focus and gives your brain time to recharge between bursts of effort.
    2. How to Do It: Work for 25 minutes → Take a 5-minute break → Repeat 4 times → Take a longer break.

Planning and Organizing Your Work


  1. Create a Weekly Plan
    1. Outline your goals at the start of each week. Break down larger tasks into manageable chunks and prioritize them. This approach reduces overwhelm and helps you stay on track.
    2. Pro Tip: Use apps like Notion or Trello to organize tasks visually.
  2. Draft Agendas for Mentor Calls
    1. To make the most of your mentor sessions, send an agenda 24 hours before your call. Include action items, questions, and areas where you need feedback. This ensures that your time with your mentor is focused and productive.

Stay Connected and Engaged


  1. Engage in the Online Community
    1. Join discussions, ask questions, and network with peers and mentors. Building connections with others in your program fosters accountability and motivation.
    2. Join Us: The online community is here to support you! Connect with others to share ideas and solutions.
  2. Schedule Advising Team Calls
    1. If you need guidance or feedback, book a call with the advising team. Whether you're looking for tips, resources, or personalized support, we're here to help.

Building Focus and Mental Well-Being


  1. Take Care of Your Body and Mind
    1. Staying active, hydrated, and well-rested improves concentration and cognitive function. Incorporate short walks, regular hydration, and sufficient sleep into your routine.
    2. Mindfulness Tip: Take a few minutes to stretch and breathe deeply between study sessions.
  2. Try New Study Environments
    1. If your usual workspace feels stale, mix it up by heading to a library or café. Changing your environment can refresh your focus and productivity.
  3. Awareness Is Key
    1. List your most common distractions and set boundaries around them. Apps like SelfControl or Cold Turkey can block distracting websites while you study.

Time Management Resources


Managing your time effectively is crucial for online learning success. We recommend exploring the following areas to strengthen your approach:


  • Goal Setting: Break larger goals into manageable tasks.  
  • Prioritization: Focus on high-impact tasks first.  
  • Managing Interruptions: Develop strategies to reduce common distractions.  
  • Procrastination: Understand your triggers and create accountability to stay consistent.  
  • Scheduling: Use calendars and planning apps to build structure into your study routine.  

Understanding Your Learning Style


Are you a solitary or social learner? Knowing your learning preferences can help you optimize your study approach. Take our quick quiz to discover whether you thrive in solo study or collaborative environments.


Improving Focus


Our brains are naturally wired to be distracted, but you can train yourself to stay in the zone with these strategies:


  • Pomodoro Technique: Immersive 25-minute work periods.  
  • Physical Self-Care: Keep hydrated and get plenty of sleep.  
  • Environmental Changes: Switch up your workspace to keep your brain alert.  
  • Mindful Awareness: Acknowledge distractions and let them pass without giving in.

By implementing these strategies and making small adjustments to your routine, you'll maximize your learning potential and feel more in control of your progress. Remember, consistency and planning are the keys to success in an online environment.


If you need more personalized tips or support, don't hesitate to reach out to the Student Advising Team by emailing advising@springboard.com!