How do you study?

Serious question, sounds dumb, but everyone studies differently. I can't study without music, because then my focus is diverted to other noises (such as parents arguing, or my brother being obnoxiously loud). I usually have a music player, or my laptop on (but with only music + headphones) so I can listen to music as I read a book or my notes before a huge exam. I try to study ahead of time, but can never manage to most of the time. I study at night because I can't wake up at 4 AM in the morning to study like most people. But usually, I'll try to study a lot.. as much as possible until 1-2 AM, then wake up at 7 AM and continue studying, since my classes usually begins around 9AM+.