Indeed, it's not a very effective or fast way. It's now been just under 4 years since I applied for my student visa, so things have changed a bit. I don't think they stress quite as strongly as they did back then your intentions to leave when your studies are finished because there is an understanding these days that there are possibilities for staying after graduation. HOWEVER, I don't believe stating on a student visa application form that you don't plan to leave and that you want citizenship as soon as possible is going to get you a visa! Also, the few times I re-entered the UK on my student visa, I was generally questioned as to whether my courses had changed. I could always honestly answer 'no' to that one, although my now-DH and I eventually applied for and received a Certificate of Approval, got married, and I applied for a spousal visa.
So, I've been here for 3+ years and am not eligible for citizenship yet! This is due to my own unique immigration history, and is also in spite of the fact that I'm the child of a British parent...a long and involved story that I'm not going to tell, but I mention it to point out that there are very few fast options.
At this point in time, the fastest way is via a spousal visa which CURRENTLY has residency requirements of 3 years (and a few other hurdles to jump as well). A student visa isn't considered to be a settlement visa, although I've heard of the 10 year wait for permanent residence on that one too, plus an additional wait before being able to apply for citizenship.
Welcome to the forum...I'm sure you'll find lots of interesting information here. Your responses so far, especially what loveaturtle has had to say, should give you plenty to think about for starters!
