Exams. Presentations. Projects. Homework. These tasks, on top of going to class, having a part-time job and being involved in extracurricular activities, can seem almost impossible…especially if you are also trying to get enough sleep every night. Many college students think that “pulling all-nighters” will be beneficial to their academic performance, when in reality, that is not the case. Research has shown that it is better to put the books away and get some sleep than it is to stay up all night studying.  Here’s why:

Sleep helps to consolidate memories, meaning that you will better remember what you learned that day. Sleep also enhances your focus, attention and mental clarity. Without sleep, you are more likely to be a passive learner, meaning you are learning less. Sleep will even aid your long term memory and retain the information you are studying for the future.

With the stress of assignments, it may be difficult at times to get a good night’s sleep. WebMD suggests these tips for a full 7-9 hours of sleep every night:

Begin by turning off electronics an hour before bed. The blue light right before going to sleep may keep you up.

Save your bed for sleep. Sitting in bed for work, TV, or playing on your phone can change the way your body reacts to “bed time.”

Set your body clock. Try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day.

Try your hardest to avoid caffeine after noon.

Make sure to also avoid heavy foods, sugary drinks and alcohol before bed.

While it may be tempting to keep the books out, put them away and get your sleep. You may feel guilty about it in the moment, but you will be doing your body and your grades a favor.

To learn about sleep hygiene and other health & wellness information and events happening on campus, contact the health and wellness educator, Kristi Hammaker, about details, questions, or concerns at [email protected].

You can also find us on Instagram at @BUHealthy, Twitter at @BUHealthyHusky, and Facebook at BU Healthy Husky, for quick tips and details about upcoming events.