There are a number of pros and cons with regard to studying at home, when compared to somewhere like a library or study lab. Some of the major advantages of such studying include the fact that some people learn better while in the comfort of their own home, it may be easier to access a computer, and someone can more easily stop to get a drink or something to eat. There are also disadvantages to home study, however, such as a greater chance for distractions and a lack of access to resources found in a library.
Many people prefer studying at home rather than studying in a library or workspace that is specifically set aside for individuals who need to study. This typically comes down to personal preference, as well as other obligations a person may have that require him or her to be home. There are some inherent pros and cons to home study, however, which should be considered by someone with a choice of where to study.
One of the major advantages to studying at home is that some people simply learn better when in a comfortable environment. While sitting at a table in a potentially uncomfortable chair found in a library does work for some students, others may find that being on a couch in their own home is preferable. Libraries and study labs may also have a number of other students in them, all trying to utilize the same resources simultaneously. This can make it difficult to use a computer or other public device, especially near the end of a school term, and someone’s computer is typically easier to use while studying.
Someone studying at home can also typically start and stop more easily, especially for breaks to get something to eat or drink. At home, a person may be able to simply walk into the next room and get some food. While studying at a library, however, it is likely that someone would have to pack up his or her study materials and leave the building completely to find something to eat.
There are some disadvantages to studying at home, however, such as the increased opportunities for distractions. Television, movies, music, video games, roommates, family, and many more sources of distraction can all be present in a home but might not be found in a library or similar setting. There are also typically certain resources that can be accessed from a library which may not be accessible from a person’s home, such as microfiche records. More and more information is being transferred to digital formats that can be accessed through a computer in someone’s home, however, alleviating some of this concern.