How to stay awake in class?

I'm almost certain that everyone in some point of their lives has fallen asleep in class. Whether you are currently in classes, planning to attend classes, or have gone through the whole schooling process and plan to never attend a class again, you've probably experienced this. From a boring philosophy class to an intriguing drama class, there's still the potential of falling asleep.

Sometimes dozing off in class has everything to do with the level of its interest with you, something it has nothing to do with that and everything to do with the fact that you were up all night doing who knows what? No matter what your reason is, there are many ways to combat the doze bug.

1. Sit up front and centre. By sitting in the front, you have the sense that the teacher is looking directly at you, whether or not he/she is. You are in view of everyone. This position not only gives you easier access to the board or projector - so you can see the notes better - but it makes you feel obligated to pay attention. You will actually fear falling asleep because everyone will notice!

2. Take notes. Whether you are a good note-taker or not, the mere act of writing may help you stay awake. If your hand is constantly moving, then there is a lesser chance of falling asleep. Just do not get too caught up in your notes that you forget to listen to what is being said. This technique is good for visual learners (people who learn best when they actually SEE what is being taught).

3. Draw sketches or doodle in your notebook. Though this is not recommended for grade school, secondary/middle school and high school, there is no problem with doodling in college - ONLY if you have a good auditory memory (you remember the things you hear). This is an alternative to taking notes. It keeps your hand busy so you have less of a chance of falling asleep. It may help - for moments where the teacher goes off into a personal story or something - to doodle in the margins. If your notebooks are checked for neatness and such, do not doodle in your notebooks.

4. Change your position. Do not sit in the same position for the entire class. For example, ladies often cross their legs while sitting through a lecture. Try uncrossing your legs for some time, or switching the leg that is crossed. You can even shift in your seat every once in a while. Even changing the position of your notebook now and then can be beneficial.

5. Suck on a candy or chew gum. Now, please do not go into class with a lollypop sticking out of your mouth. Make sure the candy you select is something unobtrusive and discreet. You do not want to be sitting in class munching on a chocolate bar. If food is allowed, then fine, but do not be defiant and bring large packets of candy into the classroom when you know your teacher will be displeased. I've found that chewing gum or sucking on a mint can keep me awake.

6. Drink some water. This goes hand in hand with the candy and gum method. Most teachers who do not allow food and drinks will allow a bottle of water into the classroom. Take advantage of that allowance and sip some water every now and then to stay awake.

7. KEEP YOUR HANDS AWAY FROM YOUR FACE. Often times, as we get relaxed during lectures, we place our elbows on the desks and lean our faces against our hands. Most people do this. Do not prop your head on your hand. This will give your body a sense of rest and INVITE sleep. Leaning on your hands is as bad as putting your head on your desk. Don't do it!

8. Walk out of the classroom. If all else fails, walk away. I'm not saying to pack up all your things and go home. Just take a break - a BRIEF break. Walk down the hallway and get a drink of water. Do some jumping jacks to wake your body up, go to the bathroom to relieve yourself, splash some cold water on your face. If you're near a door that exits the building, go out for some fresh air. Just remember to return to class promptly. You do not want to miss too much valuable information.