Staying focused while studying for exams can be one of the hardest things for students. But we understand that it’s not always easy to remain focused for long periods of time, so these are our top ten tips on how to concentrate on study.
1. Find a suitable space
While we do recommend studying in quiet areas like libraries, we won’t strictly suggest this. We know that not every student can study in total silence. Some might prefer to study at home too. It all depends on preferences and what works best for you. Students can figure out what areas work best for them by testing out different settings, whether it be at home, in a library or even in a café.
2. Create a plan
Before you begin studying, set out a realistic schedule. Include your goals – what you want to achieve or complete this study session and by when. Make the plan strict and precise. Try your best to stick to it too. When you have a guide to follow there’s a sense of structure and organisation. It’ll make things easier when you have something to follow.
3. Block distractions
As a student, your biggest distraction is likely going to be your mobile phone and social media, but it’s not difficult to block these out. Simply switch your phone off for a while or delete Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat, whatever it is that distracts you. It’s all about self-discipline and it’s distractions like these that are really going to break your concentration.
4. Take breaks
Studies have proven that taking breaks do improve concentration while studying, but it is easy to forget to take them, especially when you’re in the zone. Set an alarm every couple of hours to remind yourself to take a half hour break. Use this time to eat, exercise or just relax. If you’ve been looking at a screen while studying, we recommend taking time away from it while on your break.
5. Stay hydrated
Don’t forget to stay hydrated while studying too. Drinking your recommended daily amount of water can help improve your mental performance and attention span. But aside from this, taking care of your health and well-being is just as important as studying for exams. Dehydration can be a major distraction and can lead to fatigue.
6. Keeps snacks nearby
Just like dehydration, hunger can also be a major distraction. But by keeping snacks nearby, we don’t mean crisps, chocolate and sweets. Think of well-balanced snacks that can help your focus and energy levels, like fresh fruit, yogurts and nuts.
7. Reward yourself
You could reward yourself with some snacks every so often while studying. Or, after a study session, treat yourself to some retail therapy, a nap or TV time. Make your reward something you enjoy, and that way you’ll have something to motivate you to get the work done.
8. Make it fun
Studying doesn’t have to be boring. There are many ways you can liven things up. Make colourful spider diagrams, read notes aloud, create a presentation, put your notes into rhymes or even just buy new stationary. When studying is made fun, the chances of remembering things is more likely. It doesn’t need to be plain old note-taking and reading.
9. Find a study partner
Studying can also be made fun by doing it with a partner. Have someone there who you can research and share strengths with. But most importantly, someone who can help motivate you. Your study partner will likely be feeling the same way as you, so knowing you’re both not alone can relieve the stress. Be sure to choose someone who you know won’t be a distraction.
10. Know your peak study time
There really is no best time of the day to study. Students may feel their brain is sharpest in the morning, while others may find their brain more active in the evening. There are pros and cons to each of these, and just like where you study, when you study also all depends on what works best for you.
Saturday School Ltd offers completely free advice to all parents and students on study revision, as well as course choices and levels.
Do not hesitate to get in contact with us if you would like further information on our services. You can call us on 0141 846 0219 or email us on info@saturdayschoolscotland.com