The Science of Napping

During this crazy time of year, even the best planner can get behind and lose sleep. Though some people like to discredit naps as unproductive, napping can be the solution when you are dragging from lack of sleep. However, there are right and wrong ways to nap. Below are some tips:

1. Don’t nap for too long! 

Science shows that short naps are key to helping study. Ideally a 20-30 minute nap will improve alertness and focus. Anything longer can actually reverse the positive effects of a nap. In a study done on astronauts, they found that a “nap improved performance by 34% and alertness 100%.” (1)

2.  Don’t nap too late at night!

If you find that you still need to study and it’s getting really late, but you’re really tired, commit to one decision or the other: don’t nap too late. If you nap too late in the evening, it can disrupt your sleeping pattern and you may not be able to sleep at night, which would only make the problem worse.

3. Remember: a full night’s sleep is always better.

During finals period, try your hardest not to get behind on sleep. A nap is a short-term solution for a bigger problem. Use them sparingly and only when you need them most!

Try following some of these tips, to find yourself more alert throughout the day!