We’ve all had to pull that all-nighter either to cram for an exam, finish a project or just because you had a brilliant idea you didn’t want to let go of. Whether you are writing, programming or just surfing, prolonged use of the computer is not healthy especially if in a dimly lit room.
Here are some tips to maximize efficiency, minimize discomfort and recover quickly. These are personal tips, no scientific backing here!
- Room Lighting
This is a matter of preference but I can’t stand to work in a really brightly lit room when it is dark outside. It just doesn’t sit well with me and I find that I concentrate better when the room is dark — maybe because there are fewer things to look at. - Change your Editor Color Scheme
If you’re doing programming or word processing, using light text on a dark background puts a lot less stress on your eyes than a black on white background. If you can’t get use to it, see the next tip. - Monitor Brightness
This is especially important if you’re working in the dark. An overly bright monitor will tire your eyes faster. There is no perfect setting for your monitor’s brightness and contrast. Depending on the lighting conditions, you will need to adjust them. Don’t be lazy and keep it on the high brightness you had during the day! - Watch your Posture
If you’re sitting awkwardly, you will definitely pay for it later on in the night as well as the following day. One of my favorite positions to sit is leaning forward to look at my monitor more closely (see picture above). This is of course very bad for the back so I like to make sure the font/zoom I’m using is big enough that I don’t have to lean forward to see it clearly. - Don’t neglect your hygiene
I find that I can’t work when I feel dirty. A quick shower or splash of water on the face really does wonders for me. Washing my face or rinsing with some intense Listerine mouthwash also serves as a quick pick-me-up when I’m feeling tired. - Take Breaks
I like to go to the kitchen and grab a snack or just get up and stretch a little bit. - Stay Hydrated
This serves several purposes. One, you won’t get dehydrated. Two, you won’t have bad breath the next morning. And three, you can’t fall asleep if you need to pee badly. Just kidding about that last one haha. - Don’t NOT sleep
I find that if I really need to do something, I will eventually get so tired I can’t focus anyway. Taking a short nap, even if it’s fifteen minutes, is enough to jump start my brain again. - Set an Alarm Beforehand
If you need to wake up at a certain time the next morning, set your alarm before you begin working. One time I got so involved in my work that I had forgotten to set my alarm. Lo and behold, after I finished my work, I went straight to bed and slept well into the afternoon the next day, missing my morning appointments. - Avoid High Caffeine Drinks
I know a lot of people that drink high caffeine drinks (Red Bull, coffee etc.). Personally, I find that it gets me going for a little bit but then I crash quickly and get really tired. Also, if you’re studying for a test, I’ve heard that drinking high caffeine drinks hinders your memory retention.
People say that your sleep deficits add up so if you miss out on a good night’s sleep, be sure you make up for it the next couple days!
Of course, if you’re organized enough, these things should never happen in the first place! What are your tips and experiences for pulling an all-nighter?
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