Earning a license to sell real estate in South Carolina takes time and effort. If you stay on task and enroll in a quality real estate school, it's possible to achieve your goal in six months or less. Studying is, of course, a key factor to passing the state exam, which is a requirement of eligibility to apply for your license. While there isn't necessarily a right or wrong way to study, there are definitely issues that might make one method more effective than another, including time of day.

Studies show that there are two time frames within an average day that are most effective for learning. The first is between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., which is considered a morning time slot, although it extends past noon. Between the hours of 4 p.m. and 10 pm., is also an excellent time for studying. Data shows that the brain is primed and ready for learning during these hours. However, what works best for you might be different than a fellow student's optimum learning time.

When do you feel most alert for studying during an average day?

A key to determining when your best studying time might be is to first monitor the fluctuation in your level of alertness throughout the day. Do you typically feel more alert in late morning/early afternoon hours? If so, then the earlier time slot for effectiveness in studying might be the best option for you. If you notice that your alertness peaks later in the day, you might want to arrange your study schedule for the 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. time slot.

Are you easily distracted while studying?

Answering this question can help you determine the best time of day for studying. Successful study habits hinge upon focus, which is always easier to achieve when there are little to no distractions around you. If you are an easily distracted person, you'll want to choose a regular studying time when distractions are at a minimum, such as later at night when everyone in your household is asleep, or during hours when there tends to be less people there if you go to a library to study.

Choose a time that you can schedule with consistency

Studying at the same time each day helps with effectiveness. Self-motivation and discipline are necessary to make the time you spend studying worthwhile. You have heard it said that being consistent helps you achieve success. This is true as long as you are consistently effective. Therefore, when deciding when to set time aside for personal study outside the classroom, make sure you choose a time frame that you will be able to stick with from week to week.

As you can see, there are several time slots during the day that are best for studying. Circadian rhythm and chronobiology are key issues that affect individual alertness. Each person must determine which time frame best fits his or her own unique needs and ultimate study goals. Of course, it is also helpful to have quality study materials as well because optimizing studying time won't make much difference if the material that you're reviewing is insufficient to help you pass your state real estate exam.