How To Make Studying Aesthetic

I’ll be honest with you—there was a time when studying just felt more like a punishment than a routine. I would sit at my desk with a stack of books, highlighters everywhere, and all I could think was, When will this be over? That changed the day I discovered the power of making studying aesthetic.

Now, before you roll your eyes, let me explain. “Aesthetic” doesn’t just mean making things look pretty for Instagram or Pinterest. It’s about creating an environment that inspires you, keeps you relaxed, and makes the process of learning enjoyable. Turning studying into an aesthetic experience completely transformed my productivity. It actually made me want to sit down and open my books.

If you’ve ever struggled with paying attention, motivating yourself, or even just convincing yourself to study, an aesthetically pleasing study routine might be the game-changer you need. Let me walk you through how I make my own studying aesthetic—and how you can, too.

How To Make Studying Aesthetic

1. Start With Your Study Space

The first thing I realized was that environment is more important than I thought. When my desk was messy, my brain felt messy too. So I made it a rule: my study space had to be clean and calming.

Here’s how I set mine up:

Declutter first – I get rid of anything that doesn’t serve the purpose of studying. Random receipts, snacks, or yesterday’s coffee mug? Gone.
Desk essentials only – I keep my laptop, a notebook, a couple of good pens, and maybe one or two highlighters. Less is more.
Decor that inspires me – A small plant, a scented candle, and a framed quote I love. That’s it.

When I walk into this space, it already feels like an invitation to focus. A clear desk makes me feel like I can actually handle what’s in front of me.

2. Good Lighting Changes Everything

I used to underestimate how much lighting could affect my study mood. Studying under harsh fluorescent lights made me feel like I was stuck in an office cubicle. Then I started using warm, cozy lighting, and the vibe completely changed.

Here’s what I use now:

Natural light whenever possible – If the sun is out, I’ll study near a window.
Warm desk lamp for evenings – No blinding white bulbs, just soft golden light.
Fairy lights or LED strips – Just enough to make the atmosphere cozy without being too bright.

The right lighting makes my desk feel less like a “work zone” and more like a creative, inspiring space.

3. Stationery That Sparks Joy

This might sound silly, but cute stationery really motivates me. I remember trying to study with half-broken pens and plain, boring notebooks, and I just didn’t feel inspired. Now, I’ve invested in tools that actually make studying something I look forward to.

For example:

Pastel highlighters instead of neon ones. They’re easier on the eyes and look beautiful in my notes.
Smooth gel pens that glide over the page. No smudges, no skipping ink.
Aesthetic notebooks with clean, minimal designs or soft colors.

When I take notes now, it feels almost like an art project. And the best part? Going back to review them doesn’t feel like a chore because they actually look inviting.

4. Sound and Scents for the Mood

Studying aesthetic isn’t just about how things look—it’s also about what you hear and smell. I’ve found that when I add sound and scent to the mix, my brain associates studying with comfort instead of stress.

Here’s what I do:

Background music – Lo-fi hip-hop, instrumental jazz, or nature sounds. No lyrics, just calm vibes.
Noise apps – Sometimes I put on a “coffee shop” background track from YouTube or Spotify. It makes me feel like I’m studying in a cozy café.
Scents – A candle or diffuser with lavender, vanilla, or eucalyptus helps me relax and focus.

These little touches make studying feel like self-care, rather than something I’m forcing myself to do.

5. Organize With Style

Organization doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, making it aesthetic is what motivates me to stay consistent. I use a mix of digital and paper tools, but I always keep them neat and calming.

Here’s what works for me:

Color-coded notes – Each subject gets its own color. Reviewing becomes so much easier.
Bullet journaling – I track assignments, deadlines, and study sessions in a way that’s both functional and beautiful.
Digital planners – On my iPad, I use pastel-themed planners with stickers and widgets.

When I look at my planner or notes, it not only keeps me on track—it’s also something I genuinely enjoy looking at.

6. Create a Study Ritual

The ritual is just as important as the setup. I noticed that when I follow a routine, my brain automatically knows it’s time to focus.

Here’s mine:

Light a candle or turn on my diffuser.
Put on background music.
Set out my pens and open my notebook.
Make a cup of tea or coffee.
Start with a small, easy task to warm up.

This ritual helps me shift from “I don’t want to study” to “Okay, let’s do this.” It’s like training my brain with little cues.

7. Add Breaks That Feel Aesthetic Too

Studying nonstop doesn’t work for me—I burn out quickly. But I’ve found that if I make my breaks as aesthetic as my study time, I come back feeling refreshed.

For example:

I’ll sip tea from a cute mug instead of a random plastic cup.
I’ll step outside for some fresh air and take a few mindful breaths.
Sometimes, I’ll journal or doodle for five minutes.

These little breaks don’t just give my brain rest—they make the whole process more enjoyable.

8. Use Technology Wisely

Technology can either enhance your study aesthetic or completely ruin it. The key is using it with intention.

Here’s how I do it:

I use aesthetic digital wallpapers on my laptop and iPad.
I keep my desktop tidy and clutter-free.
I use apps like Notion or GoodNotes with clean, calming templates.

Instead of staring at a chaotic screen full of messy files, I see a neat, organized setup that helps me focus.

9. Dress the Part

This one surprised me. I used to study in old, baggy clothes because I thought comfort was all that mattered. But then I tried wearing a cozy yet put-together outfit—like a soft sweater or a hoodie I actually liked—and it made a big difference.

When I feel good in what I’m wearing, I sit up straighter, I feel more energized, and studying becomes something I want to do. Comfort is still the priority, but I’ve learned that looking intentional boosts my mindset too.

10. Romanticize the Process

The biggest shift for me wasn’t in my tools or decorations—it was in my mindset. Instead of seeing studying as boring or stressful, I started romanticizing it.

I’d imagine myself as the main character in a cozy movie, studying in a warm café on a rainy day. Or I’d picture my future self thanking me for putting in the effort now.

When you treat studying as an experience instead of a task, it becomes less of a burden and more of a lifestyle.

Why This Works

At first, I thought making studying aesthetic was just procrastination. But then I realized it actually works because it changes how my brain feels about studying. Instead of dread, I now associate it with calm, comfort, and creativity.

It’s like this: if you had to eat vegetables every day, but you served them on a beautiful plate with spices and olive oil, wouldn’t you enjoy them more? Studying is the same. When you dress it up, it stops being a chore and starts becoming a pleasure.

Final Thoughts

Studying doesn’t have to be a daily battle. By creating an aesthetic routine, you can actually make it something you look forward to. For me, it’s the little details—the warm lighting, cozy sounds, and pastel pens—that make the biggest difference.

If you’re struggling with focus or motivation, try giving your study setup a fresh look and feel. You don’t need to spend a lot—just start small. Clear your desk, light a candle, put on some music, and see how it shifts your mood.

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ONWE DAMIAN

Onwe Damian Chukwuemeka is a relationship writer, a law student and a student advocate. He was the former Deputy Director of Public Prosecution SUG, University of Calabar, Nigeria, and currently one of the Judges of the High Court of the Student Union Government, University of Calabar. Learn more about him

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