This thread is intended for those of you planning to maximize your hours played per day. There are several simple strategies and tips that will help you stay awake and playing into the wee hours, long after the masses have retreated to their beds.
A simple saying is very important if you plan on altering your normal sleep schedule.
"You cannot skip sleep, you can only borrow against it."
The first step in ensuring that you can stay up longer is by paying back any sleep deficits you currently have. Do this by getting 8+ hours of sleep for 2-3 days depending on how deeply in deficit you are. This will allow you to enter Tuesday's EA with energy and a minimum of fatigue.
Caffeine affects different people in different ways, as does sugar.
Ingesting massive amounts of caffeine can often have detrimental physical effects in the short term that may actually hurt your ability to focus. Concentrated forms of caffeine (like caffeine pills) may also cause stomach discomfort and GI distress.
Massive sugar intake also creates a seesaw effect due to your body seeking to achieve homeostasis. That is the sugar crash you will feel a few hours after the initial sugar high. Try to avoid carb-loading with sugary drinks and carb-rich breads and grains (pasta, pizza crust). Eat balanced and light meals with small snacks.
Stay hydrated.
Hydration is an unnecessary stress that can be easily avoided. Being dehydrated will inhibit your ability to concentrate and perform complex tasks. It may also cause headaches and fatigue. There isn't a set amount of water that every person needs to drink - everyone is different. Drink until your thirst is quenched and urine is more clear than yellow. NEON ORANGE urine is bad. Also, drinking gallons of water in a short period of time can kill you - so don't do that either.
By staying hydrated, your body will be operating at optimum. It will allow your body to better handle the stress of sleep deprivation.
Play with friends/family, preferably in the same room.
By having someone to speak with and engage in conversation, you will stay more alert and feel less fatigued. Make Early Access a social event. Then you can draw penises all over the first guy to fall asleep. (I kid, I kid!)
Accept that sooner, or later, you are going to crash. (See first tip)
It's going to happen. Plan ahead before you hit the couch/bed. Set an alarm for a realistic amount of sleep based on how you feel.
Missed one. Take frequent short breaks and walk around.
As it is Winter in the Northern Hemisphere, take advantage of the cold weather by slipping outside for a few minutes. This is an invigorating sensation that will help wake you if you are feeling sleepy.
This is not medical advice, nor do I condone you pissing in bottles, nor pooping in socks. I am just providing knowledge so that you may avoid some simple mistakes that may put an end to an exciting first day in Early Access.
Have fun. I'll see you in-game.