How to Study Effectively Outside and Tips for Al-Fresco Revision

May 2026 by Keira Bennett

With the days getting longer and the temperature getting hotter (for the UK, anyway!), studying inside for your end of year exams is the last thing you might want to do. Instead, make the most of sunnier months by moving revision outside.

Keep reading for the best ways to study outside without losing your focus, including tips for al-fresco revision and (arguably the most important tip) how to protect your laptop screen from the sun! Remember, if you are studying outside, don’t forget to use suncream and stay hydrated.

How to study effectively outside

Balance good revision practice with a much-needed dose of vitamin D with these tips for studying outside.

Pick the right time…
Studying in midday sun can cause heat fatigue, not to mention the glare on your screen will make it doubly difficult to concentrate. Instead, make the most of the cooler hours and study in the early morning or late afternoon.
… and the right spot
Unlike in the library, the outdoors brings its own symphony of noises — some of which are likely to distract you from the task at hand. Choose an outdoor study spot that’s as quiet as can be, away from traffic, chatter and music. Better yet, bring your headphones!
Treat the outside as your new study zone
The most important trick to studying effectively outside is to treat your revision session as a change of scenery, not a chance to relax. This may be difficult at first (especially if you’re used to soaking up the rays in your free time), but practice makes perfect with this one.
Plan for everything you might need
Revising outside requires a little more planning. Make sure to gather everything you need before you head out, so you don’t have to break focus and go back inside. This might include:
- Books (including dissertation reading materials if you’re in final year)
- Lecture notes
- Pens
- Clipboard to lean on if you’re not working on a surface
- Flashcards
- Blanket for late evening sessions
Make sure you can see your screen in the sun
The easiest way to study outside is by using written notes. However, if you are dedicated to studying in the sun and still seeing your screen, you may need to get crafty. We’re talking putting your phone in a box, investing in polarised sunglasses to filter out reflected light, or finding the perfect spot where the shade hits your screen but your legs are in the sun.
Ensure everything is fully charged
Al-fresco power sources are rare, so before you head out, ensure your devices are fully charged. If you’re notorious for running out of battery, buy a portable power bank for extra juice. It’s also worth checking if there is wifi nearby, if your hotspot can be temperamental.
Study with your coursemates
If you’re someone who gets distracted easily inside, chances are it’ll be even worse with the outside world! By studying with your coursemates, you can help each other stay on track. Not to mention, someone can save your sunny spot while you nip inside to the toilet.
Have lunch in the sun
Pack food you can eat outside (more tips on what to bring later in the blog) and enjoy study breaks in the sun. This will help you make the most of all the vitamin D, and also keep your brain refreshed to avoid burnout.
Take regular walking breaks
Talking of burnout, make sure to take regular study breaks — and walking is great for improving productivity. Why? Because you’re boosting physical energy, improving blood circulation to the brain, and most importantly, enjoying all the benefits of being outside.
Keep moving locations
If you’re planning a super-long study session, don’t forget to keep changing locations. This prevents your brain from entering “rest mode” in familiar surroundings, and also provides a novelty that can trigger dopamine release and boost motivation. Nice.

Tips for al-fresco revision

Use the Pomodoro Technique. Work for 25 to 50 minutes, then take a 5 to 10-minute break. We recommend stretching your legs and going for a walk.
Limit technology. If you can, switch to offline revision to avoid the temptation of scrolling on social media.
Switch up tasks. Keep your mind engaged by switching tasks from time to time. This could be changing from reading to writing flashcards to doing a practice exam paper.
Use active recall. Instead of just passively reading, focus on rewriting content or explaining it to someone else to improve knowledge retention.

Study-friendly picnic ideas to aid concentration

Avoid going back inside for lunch with these outdoor-friendly food ideas that will give your brain a much-deserved boost. Better still, bringing lunch with you is an easy way to make your student loan go further!