If you’re having trouble studying and getting good grades, it could be that your study habits aren’t the best. You might not realize how important it is to take breaks or get enough sleep before an exam. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to improve your study habits so that you can perform better in class! We’ve put together a list of our favorite tips on how to stay focused when studying so that you can get better grades without having to try too hard.
#1 Make a List
Lists are useful, that much is obvious. Making a list of your to-dos and giving them due dates undoubtedly helps. Add two columns to your list to make it a little more interesting and compelling. The first column lists tasks you must do, such as assignments, revision, research, and learning, while the second column lists leisure activities, such as viewing videos, using Instagram, or playing games. Always keep in mind that the items in the second column are your prizes for doing the duties in the first column; thus, only pursue them after finishing the primary labor. Making a list has the additional benefit of the satisfaction of ticking off items when they are accomplished.
You may break down your list of activities into smaller ones, like finishing five pages, or if some of them are larger ones, like finishing a whole unit. Due to the fact that they take more time, adding large tasks to your list increases the likelihood that you will abandon them in the midst. You can finish your list more quickly if you add smaller chores to it. You will feel a feeling of success and get closer to finishing the entire list once you complete it and cross it off.
When creating a list, it’s important to consider the time frame. You must be sure to give yourself a deadline for each task as you list it. This timeline should be chosen in a way that makes you feel a bit uneasy.
#2 Create a Soothing Study Environment
No matter where you choose to study, whether in your room, a library, or anywhere else, make sure the environment is calm and that you have everything you need nearby.
You’ll want to create a study environment that’s free from distractions and conducive to focus. This can include shutting off your phone if you have a hard time getting down to the task at hand with notifications popping up, or turning off the television so you don’t get too distracted.
If possible, it’s best to use a small desk lamp instead of overhead lighting since it’s easier on your eyes and won’t cause eyestrain (which affects concentration).
Make sure you’re sitting comfortably in an ergonomic chair throughout your studying session, which doesn’t mean leaning back with your feet up—this can cause neck pain!
#3. Breaks
Many people believe that if they study for two or three hours straight, they will succeed in school. Actually, this is not the case. Understanding and thoroughly assimilating the topic, rather than merely reading it through, is the key to getting excellent grades. You should stick with the phrase “Quality Over Quantity.” Not taking breaks works perfectly for some students—they don’t become bored or distracted—but it doesn’t for all of them.
Breaks are an essential part of study time. They help you stay focused and motivated, keep your health in check, and keep you happy (and your brain functioning).
- Breaks can provide a sense of accomplishment that makes it easier to return to the task at hand.
- Breaks allow your mind to wander, thus allowing you to find new connections between things that may not have seemed related before.
- Breaks help prevent burnout—the longer we work without taking a break, the more likely we are to become exhausted or bored with our tasks.
- Taking breaks allows us time out from staring at our computer screens or books without feeling guilty about it—in fact, this is recommended by experts.
#4. Eliminate Distractions
It is important to make sure that your study area is distraction-free because there are so many things that can distract you. Your mobile phone should be turned off and away from you. You should also turn off any notifications, such as text messages or emails. Turn off the television and do not multitask while studying; instead, focus on one thing at a time. Always study alone and in silence because it will reduce distractions caused by other people talking or working around you (unless they are helping with your studies). Avoid studying in a noisy environment such as a crowded coffee shop or library; choose an area with minimal noise and environmental disturbances.
If possible, choose an area with good lighting because it will help you concentrate better. Make sure that your study area is clean and tidy so there are no dirty dishes or messy papers, which can be distracting when trying to focus on studying.
There are many distractions that can get in the way of your studies, but they can all be managed if you plan ahead and create a distraction-free environment.
#5. Eat Well and Stay Hydrated
It’s no secret that eating healthily is good for you and your brain, but staying hydrated is just as important to keep your mind sharp. Water is essential for transporting nutrients around the body—and if you’re not getting enough of it, your brain function will take a hit. Plus, dehydration can also lead to headaches which make focusing on anything difficult. To keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.
Drink coffee or tea to help keep yourself alert and awake. Drink juice if you need something sweet (but don’t drink too much because sugar can make you tired). Drink milk with honey, salt, water, and/or lemon juice. Whatever your beverage of choice is—drink it often!
#6. Reward Yourself
Reward yourself by giving yourself a treat. For example, you can buy something small like a new book or pen. You could also reward yourself by doing something fun with your friends or family. You can even go out to eat at a new restaurant if you’re feeling daring! If you know that this is something that will motivate you to study harder in the future and stay focused on your work, then it’s worth it!
Numerous research has demonstrated the high effectiveness of reward systems. One is inspired to keep going and feels accomplished as a result of it. Knowing that you have put in a lot of effort and deserve to be rewarded for it is crucial.
Whatever you choose as your reward, it will feel different. While watching an episode that you have chosen to keep as your reward, you will feel satisfied. Knowing that you have been working hard and that this is merely a treat for yourself will prevent you from feeling guilty about squandering your time.
#7. Get Proper Sleep
Pulling all-nighters may seem like a wonderful approach for a student to achieve those grades, but it really has the opposite effect. Your brain’s ability to function is hampered by a lack of sleep, making it challenging to understand any notion. No matter how many hours you put in, you won’t obtain a great education if you don’t get enough sleep.
Sleep is the most important part of your day. It’s where you get a chance to restore your energy, sharpen your focus, and de-stress from the day. When you sleep well, everything else in life becomes easier.
A good night’s sleep helps you:
- Concentrate better during the day
- Remember what you learned during the day (especially if it was hard)
- Stay awake longer without feeling tired or lethargic
- Have more energy throughout the day (which will help motivate you to exercise!)
At the end of the day, studying is a skill you can learn. The more you practice it, the better you’ll get. Don’t let yourself get discouraged if your study habits aren’t perfect yet—that just means there’s room for improvement! And keep in mind that all of these tips are great ways to help you stay focused and achieve your goals.
FAQs
1. How can I concentrate while studying?
When it comes to staying focused when studying, your study space is crucial. To prevent interruptions to your study flow, you must set up a relaxing setting and ensure that you have everything you need, including a pen, pencil, books, and other items.
2. What is the most effective approach to focus when studying?
While checking alerts or using social media while studying would just push you down the path of procrastination, utilizing social media during a break is OK. Avoiding distractions when studying may be done in a number of ways, such as avoiding using your phone. Being distracted in any way will make it very difficult for you to focus, thus it’s critical to maintain mental clarity before beginning a brainstorming study session.
Being distracted in any way will make it very difficult for you to focus, thus it’s critical to maintain mental clarity before beginning a brainstorming study session.
3. How to increase my study time?
You might not be able to understand what you learn if you study constantly for more than two to three hours. Therefore, it is crucial to take little pauses when studying to rejuvenate yourself. As opposed to studying continually without any breaks, this enables you to concentrate on your studies for longer periods of time.
