Which prayer should students say before studying?

the Sarasvatī prayer “Sarasvati namastubhyaṁ…” is the most common, often with a short prayer to Gaṇeśa.

Before opening books, many children say: “Sarasvati namastubhyaṁ varade kāmarūpiṇi, vidyārambhaṁ kariṣyāmi siddhir bhavatu me sadā” — “Salutations to Sarasvatī, giver of boons; I begin my study, may it always succeed.” Many also say “Vakratuṇḍa mahākāya…” to Gaṇeśa, remover of obstacles. In South India, Hayagrīva is also prayed to as the lord of learning.

The prayer works like a doorway: it settles the mind, signals that study is a kind of worship, and turns the student’s attention inward. Keeping books off the floor and not stepping over them comes from the same respect for Sarasvatī.

Keep the prayer short and steady, then study with full attention. Prayer supports effort; it does not replace revision and sleep. A child who prays and then works sincerely has done everything asked of them.

Deities of learning: Sarasvatī, Gaṇeśa, Hayagrīva · Source: common family and school practice

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