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The answer to success in school is not when you study but how effectively you can use your time.

As students who want to become successful in school and academics, we often find ourselves grappling with the infinite struggle between late-night homework sessions and early-morning study routines. Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one can make a significant impact on our academic performance and overall well-being. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of each option, and provide real-life examples.

Late-Night Studies: The Night Owl’s Guide

Studying at night does have a lot of benefits. According to the interviews at YLHS, many students stated that they prefer late-night studying. The reasons are the following: “I remember information the night prior better as opposed to the morning of” Onassis Lim (10). This brings out the first pros of studying at night—uninterrupted focus. When it’s late at night, the world tends to quiet down, a peaceful environment is the most satisfactory for concentration. “I like to study at night because it is nicer and quieter that way,” says Timothy Khaw (10). Moreover, Vivian Lin (10) also explains, “It’s an intimate space for studying.” Truthfully, finishing homework or studying at night does have the time flexibility to have enough time to complete each task well.

While studying at night is what most students do, there are also many drawbacks. Sleep deprivation is one of them as staying up late can lead to a lack of sleep, resulting in fatigue and decreased performance the next day. An irregular sleep pattern can contribute to long-term health issues, such as increased stress and a weakened immune system. (mayoclinic.org)

Morning Studying/Homework: The Early Bird Catches the Worm?

The YLHS 10th grade student Kelsey Ikemoto’s answer is, “I’d say really in the morning because… your brain is already functioning..it’s easier to think, especially [if there is] an early test.” 

Yes, refreshed minds are the main reason students should study in the morning. When the mind is fresh, it can lead to better comprehension and retention of information. Furthermore, a consistent sleep schedule can be maintained when this routine occurs. Waking up early encourages a regular sleep schedule, promoting overall health for students’ body development.

Nonetheless, doing homework or studying in the morning can also be stressful since there is limited time for waking up, eating breakfast, doing homework, and many other things. Early mornings may provide less time for homework, especially for students with busy schedules like zero periods.

Tristan Khong, another 10th-grade student added, “I like late-night studying because I’m too tired in the morning.” That is true, some individuals are simply not morning people and struggle to be productive during early hours. 

In addition, the interview with a 10th-grade YLHS student Ethan Hayashi, he describes his schedule for every day’s studying and homework, saying, “To be honest I haven’t done either late night studying or morning study because I get all my work done first, but I prefer late night study because there are less people to bother me, [then] and I can concentrate more.” He is totally right, either late-night studying or morning studying doesn’t matter too much. It is noteworthy whether you are effectively using your time. Morning or night, it only depends on your own habits and rhythm. Just like how Ryan Soto (10) finds the way that is more suited for him comment, “it’s more preferable to do morning studying, but honestly, I am forced to do it late at night because I lose track of time.”

To sum up, whether late-night or early-morning studying is preferable depends on your personal habits and rhythm. The key to success in school is not when you study but how effectively you use your chosen study time. The YLHS Endorphins Study Club is here to support students in navigating the challenges of academic life. Join us on Remind (code: endorp) and Google Classroom (code: qc62lzo) and follow us on Instagram (endorphins_119) for more valuable high school success tips. Your commitment to learning is what truly matters, regardless of whether you’re a night owl or an early bird. Keep it up!