It can be tough to stay focused while studying. Sometimes, all you want to do is take a break and watch a funny cat video on YouTube. But if you’re serious about getting good grades, you need to find a way to focus and stay on track.
Perhaps you’re studying in a noisy environment or simply can’t seem to get started. According to writing expert at Studybay Max Malak, every student should have his or her own copy of “The Ideal Strategy to Write My Assignments” and be aware of professional writer secrets that help them complete their work on time.
Are you finding it hard to focus while studying? Here are a few tips that might help.
1. Create an appropriate environment
Finding out where you work best is an important part of any productive study session. For some, silence is essential, but for others, the light bustle of a coffee shop can provide just the right amount of background noise to help them focus. But, no matter what kind of background noise you like, it’s important that your study space have these things:
- A flat, clear surface with enough space to hold all of your materials and laptop comfortably.
- Outlets – If you need your computer to study, having a close power supply can prevent you from having to get up and disrupt your flow.
- Seating (or standing) that is comfortable – When looking for a place to work, it’s important to look for one that has the necessary furniture to promote good posture for long-term, sustainable study. Sitting upright has been shown to increase energy levels, confidence, and overall mood. Moreover, sitting in a slouched position can predispose your brain to feelings of hopelessness.
2. Remove all potential distractions
This may seem like an obvious point to make, but it’s one of the most important when it comes to avoiding distractions while studying.
Did you know that it takes us 23 minutes on average to refocus on our work after being interrupted?
If like most of us, you find yourself picking up your phone as soon as the screen flashes, or checking your emails as soon as a new alert appears, you’ll understand how phones, apps, and websites can be the death of all productivity.
Using site blockers, turning off notifications, or – even better – placing your electronic devices completely out of sight will help you avoid distractions and stay focused on your studies.
3. Establish study goals
When you sit down to study, it’s important to have a goal in mind. What do you want to accomplish? If you don’t have a goal, you’re likely to get sidetracked and lose focus.
Set attainable goals for each session to avoid becoming overwhelmed by the amount of studying you must do. Set specific, measurable goals for yourself. For example, “I will read for 30 minutes and take notes on the material” or “I will complete three practice problems.” This will help keep you focused and on track.
Planning small rewards ahead of time can provide motivation to push through.
4. Make a study schedule
Another way to stay focused while studying is to create a study schedule. A study schedule helps you keep track of your time and make sure you cover all the material you need to know.
Many of us have spent the last year attempting to navigate a new way of managing our time due to the lack of a rigid school or university timetable. For some, it’s been an opportunity to study around a busy schedule of other commitments, while for others, it’s been a struggle to manage their own time.
Setting a study schedule is a great way to keep track of your progress toward your goals, establish a routine, and feel accomplished at the end of the day.
5. Plan out your day
One of the best ways to stay focused while studying is to plan out your day. Make a list of what you need to accomplish and when you need to do it. This will help keep you organized and on track.
If you find that you’re getting sidetracked, try working in short bursts.
6. Create a study ritual
Creating a study ritual can assist you in getting your mind into the flow and focus of studying.
Create a pre-study ritual, such as setting up your desk space, taking a short walk around the block, making a daily to-do list, or doing a 10-minute yoga session to focus your mind.
Taking the time to organize your studies in this manner will not only physically prepare you for a study session but will also help train your brain to recognize and easily transition into a focused state. The more you practice this ‘ritual’ before sitting down to study, the stronger your brain’s association with the need to focus and motivate you will become.
As a result, you’ll make better use of your time and spend less time trying to get into the flow of your work. You will be more focused during your designated study times, resulting in a more effective and efficient learning session.
7. Take regular breaks
It’s important to take regular breaks while studying. If you try to work for too long without a break, you’ll eventually get burned out. Get up and walk around every hour or so to give your brain a break.
8. Try the Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro Technique has recently been lauded for assisting students and workers in staying focused and making their working sessions more focused.
Its premise is straightforward: choose a task to work on, set a timer, work until the timer goes off (completely interrupted), and then take a short break. It is usually recommended that you study for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and then repeat until the task is completed. But in the end, it all comes down to what works best for you.
9. Keep active & healthy
One of the best ways to stay focused while studying is to keep active and healthy. When you’re feeling run down, it’s tough to concentrate on anything. Make sure you get plenty of sleep and eat healthy foods.
Exercise is also a great way to stay focused. When you’re active, your mind is clear and you can focus on the task at hand. So, try to get in a workout every day or two to help keep you focused while studying.
10. Drink plenty of water and eat well
A lack of water or eating high-fat foods will make you feel tired and sluggish. Water is essential for focus and concentration. Make sure you drink plenty of water while studying and avoid sugary drinks and caffeine. Eating healthy foods will help keep your energy levels up and your brain functioning properly.
11. Reward yourself
When you finish a task or study for a certain amount of time, reward yourself with something you enjoy. This will help keep you motivated and focused. Maybe watch a few minutes of your favorite show, go for a walk, or eat a piece of candy. Just make sure the rewards are short so they don’t distract you from studying.
12. Find the best apps to focus
There are a number of apps and tools that can help you focus while studying. Try using an app like Self Control to block distracting websites, or a tool like Noisli to create a study environment that works for you.
- Brain.FM is an app that uses music to help you focus. It’s been shown to improve concentration and productivity.
- Freedom Focus Sounds is an app that uses nature sounds to help you focus. It’s been shown to improve concentration, creativity, and productivity.
- Noisli is a tool that allows you to create your own custom study environment. You can choose from a variety of background sounds, and even add your own music
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, so find what works for you and go with it.
Staying focused while studying can be tough, but with a little bit of effort, you can overcome any obstacle. Use these tips to help you stay on track and achieve your academic goals.
