Holidays are a time to relax, refresh, and spend time with loved ones. But for students, holidays can also be an opportunity to catch up on studies, revise old topics, and prepare for the next academic session. Striking the right balance between rest and study is the key to making the most of holiday time. This blog explores the right way to manage study during holidays, ensuring productivity without burnout.

1. Understand the Value of Holidays

Before diving into study schedules, it’s important to understand why holidays matter. According to the American Psychological Association, breaks from routine can help reduce stress and improve mental health. For students, this means that holidays should not be seen as a time for intense study, but rather as an opportunity for smart and structured learning that doesn’t exhaust the mind.

2. Set Clear and Achievable Goals

One of the biggest mistakes students make during holidays is either overcommitting or doing nothing at all. The right way is to set clear and achievable study goals. Instead of saying, “I will finish the entire syllabus,” break it down into small parts like, “I will revise two chapters of math this week.”

SMART goals — Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound — are widely recommended for effective learning. These help create a sense of direction and accomplishment.

3. Create a Flexible Study Plan

A well-planned schedule is essential, but it should be flexible. Holidays are unpredictable — guests may visit, you might travel, or need extra rest. Instead of setting a rigid time table, create a daily checklist or a weekly target. For example, plan to study English grammar for 1 hour in the morning and practice science questions in the evening.

Keep room for changes and don’t panic if you miss a session. The goal is consistency, not perfection.

4. Balance Study with Fun

Studying during holidays should not come at the cost of fun. Combining study with enjoyable activities improves learning. According to educational psychologists, taking breaks after 25–30 minutes of study (Pomodoro Technique) improves focus and memory retention.

Schedule fun activities like watching movies, going out with family, or playing games after completing study goals. This reward system keeps motivation high and reduces procrastination.

5. Focus on Weak Areas

Holidays are a great time to work on subjects or topics you struggle with. During the school year, students often rush through tough subjects. Use this break to go back to basics — whether it’s fractions in math, grammar rules in English, or historical dates in social studies.

Watching educational videos, practising worksheets, or asking for help from a tutor or elder can make a huge difference during this quiet time.

6. Involve Family in Learning

Parents and siblings can play a great role in holiday learning. Children can do reading sessions with parents, older siblings can quiz the younger ones, and families can even turn learning into games — like vocabulary bingo or math puzzles.

Learning becomes more enjoyable when it’s shared. Moreover, family members can encourage and keep students accountable.

7. Use Online Learning Resources Wisely

Today, there is no shortage of learning tools online — YouTube lessons, educational apps, free courses, and e-books. Use this time to explore such resources. Khan Academy, Coursera, and BYJU’S are some trusted platforms offering free and structured study materials for school students.

However, screen time should be limited. Studying through gadgets should be balanced with reading physical books, writing, and practising offline.

8. Revise and Reflect

Holidays provide the breathing space to revise what has been learned so far. This is not the time to rush into new chapters unless necessary. Revision helps strengthen memory and builds confidence.

Along with revising, encourage journaling or reflection. Ask questions like:

• What did I find difficult this year?
• Which subjects do I enjoy most?
• How can I study better in the next term?

Self-reflection during holidays improves planning and study habits.

9. Avoid All-Nighters and Burnout

Some students think holidays are a time to “catch up” by studying all night. This is unhealthy and unproductive. Sleep is vital for memory consolidation, especially in growing children and teenagers. Maintain a regular sleep routine and never compromise rest for study.

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), school-aged children need 9–12 hours of sleep every night. Teens need 8–10 hours.

10. Stay Physically Active

Physical activity boosts brain function. Encourage simple exercises like walking, cycling, yoga, or even dancing at home. It improves mood, concentration, and energy levels — all of which support better study outcomes.

Even 30 minutes of movement per day can make a big difference. Avoid sitting all day, whether it’s for study or entertainment.

11. Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude

Holidays are also a time to build inner peace. Practising mindfulness — like simple breathing exercises or meditation — helps students manage exam anxiety and develop emotional strength. Gratitude journaling (writing down things you’re thankful for) improves focus and optimism.

Calm students are better learners. They can handle studies with more confidence and less pressure.

12. Don’t Compare Yourself with Others

Some students may be attending extra classes or joining coaching centres during holidays. It’s easy to feel left out or anxious about not doing the same. But remember — every student is different. Your holiday study plan should suit your pace, goals, and comfort.

Comparing only adds stress. Focus on your growth and your journey.

Final Thoughts

The right way to manage study during holidays is to keep it balanced, meaningful, and relaxed. With proper planning, clear goals, family support, and healthy habits, students can enjoy their holidays while staying on top of their academics. Holidays are not about overworking but about growing smarter, calmer, and more confident.

Make your break count — both for joy and for learning.

यूट्यूब का ध्यानपूर्वक उपयोग करने का सही तरीका

References:

1. American Psychological Association. (2020). The importance of taking breaks. https://www.apa.org
2. Doran, G. T. (1981). There’s a S.M.A.R.T. way to write management’s goals and objectives.
3. Cirillo, F. (2006). The Pomodoro Technique. https://francescocirillo.com/pages/pomodoro-technique
4. Khan Academy. (n.d.). Free Online Courses. https://www.khanacademy.org
5. Coursera. (n.d.). Free Courses. https://www.coursera.org
6. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). How Much Sleep Do I Need? https://www.cdc.gov
7. Harvard Health Publishing. (2021). Mindfulness for children. https://www.health.harvard.edu