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Any studying techniques that work if you get distracted easily?
for a 10th grader
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Doc’s Answer
Bri, studying is about finding a right balance between concentration, understanding, retention, and rest. And, just like any task that taxes your energy—be it physical or mental—it is often just as difficult to get started as it is to engage in the task itself.
TIME MANAGEMENT
Take time to reevaluate your to-do list. What’s the most pressing item there, and which ones can wait? Is it more important to prepare for your AP US History exam on Friday or complete your Honors Literature essay due in two weeks? Since you have your daily planner dialed in (ideally a few weeks ahead of time), you should be able to look ahead at what’s coming and figure out what needs to be tackled first. Some students work best by getting the harder tasks out of the way first, creating a sense of accomplishment, and lightening the load going forward. Some students prefer tackling easy tasks first, so they’re able to cross off a few things on their long list quickly. Figure out which system works best for you and stick to it. The most important thing is that you look at your upcoming tasks holistically and figure out what needs to be handled first.
TAKE NOTE
We’re all familiar with being in class, feeling like we understand a concept, then returning home to tackle our homework, feeling lost on the same material. This is where diligent and organized note taking comes into play. Not only does note taking help you review class material after first hearing it, but the actual writing and taking notes of what you’re hearing will help you absorb and hold onto more of it rather than the information flowing in one ear and out the other. Of course, it can be hard to keep really organized notes when the teacher is moving quickly in class. Go through and highlight key points, color code particular topics, add post it notes to areas you know you need more clarity on. Your notes are your surest guide to success in your classes.
SPACEOUT
In order to succeed, make sure your study space is set up to your liking. Clear off all of your distractions, have all of the materials you need: think textbooks, notebooks, highlighters, your favorite snack, etc. If your desk is disorganized, it can be difficult to focus on what really matters. I recommend having a study space separate from where you like to relax or sleep. This way, when it’s time to work, you come to your study space, and when it’s time to relax, you’re able to disconnect from your work and recharge.
REWARDS
Provide yourself rewards for your hard work. Did you bust out three hours of studying for that upcoming test? Treat yourself and allow your brain to recharge. Maybe that means a walk around the neighborhood, eating your favorite snack, or watching a favorite show. Just make sure you come back to your work when you need to. Remember your long-term goals and why each of these small tasks really matters. Small successes add up to your overall goals. Keep the long game in the back of your mind while you focus on bite-size tasks that will get you there. Don’t forget to reward yourself for the small wins along the way to keep yourself motivated and charging forward.
STUDY GROUPS
What happens when you get stuck on a concept you don’t fully understand, and you’re stuck at home without access to your teacher? This is where study groups can really come in handy. Forming study groups with a few classmates will help reinforce concepts, allow everyone to talk through questions, and really solidify your understanding. Reviewing aloud can immensely help students absorb the material and make sure they fully grasp it. It’s also a great opportunity to help out other classmates while you continue reviewing the material. It can also break up the monotony of studying for hours on end alone.
Hope this is helpful Bri
TIME MANAGEMENT
Take time to reevaluate your to-do list. What’s the most pressing item there, and which ones can wait? Is it more important to prepare for your AP US History exam on Friday or complete your Honors Literature essay due in two weeks? Since you have your daily planner dialed in (ideally a few weeks ahead of time), you should be able to look ahead at what’s coming and figure out what needs to be tackled first. Some students work best by getting the harder tasks out of the way first, creating a sense of accomplishment, and lightening the load going forward. Some students prefer tackling easy tasks first, so they’re able to cross off a few things on their long list quickly. Figure out which system works best for you and stick to it. The most important thing is that you look at your upcoming tasks holistically and figure out what needs to be handled first.
TAKE NOTE
We’re all familiar with being in class, feeling like we understand a concept, then returning home to tackle our homework, feeling lost on the same material. This is where diligent and organized note taking comes into play. Not only does note taking help you review class material after first hearing it, but the actual writing and taking notes of what you’re hearing will help you absorb and hold onto more of it rather than the information flowing in one ear and out the other. Of course, it can be hard to keep really organized notes when the teacher is moving quickly in class. Go through and highlight key points, color code particular topics, add post it notes to areas you know you need more clarity on. Your notes are your surest guide to success in your classes.
SPACEOUT
In order to succeed, make sure your study space is set up to your liking. Clear off all of your distractions, have all of the materials you need: think textbooks, notebooks, highlighters, your favorite snack, etc. If your desk is disorganized, it can be difficult to focus on what really matters. I recommend having a study space separate from where you like to relax or sleep. This way, when it’s time to work, you come to your study space, and when it’s time to relax, you’re able to disconnect from your work and recharge.
REWARDS
Provide yourself rewards for your hard work. Did you bust out three hours of studying for that upcoming test? Treat yourself and allow your brain to recharge. Maybe that means a walk around the neighborhood, eating your favorite snack, or watching a favorite show. Just make sure you come back to your work when you need to. Remember your long-term goals and why each of these small tasks really matters. Small successes add up to your overall goals. Keep the long game in the back of your mind while you focus on bite-size tasks that will get you there. Don’t forget to reward yourself for the small wins along the way to keep yourself motivated and charging forward.
STUDY GROUPS
What happens when you get stuck on a concept you don’t fully understand, and you’re stuck at home without access to your teacher? This is where study groups can really come in handy. Forming study groups with a few classmates will help reinforce concepts, allow everyone to talk through questions, and really solidify your understanding. Reviewing aloud can immensely help students absorb the material and make sure they fully grasp it. It’s also a great opportunity to help out other classmates while you continue reviewing the material. It can also break up the monotony of studying for hours on end alone.
Hope this is helpful Bri
Updated
Dina’s Answer
Start really small! Instead of expecting yourself to study for hours, break down the task into smaller mini goals. Try picking a specific goal that can be accomplished in 10 minutes or less. When you finish each task, be sure to acknowledge your success by crossing it off a list, congratulating yourself, or taking a short break (if you will not lose focus) before returning to studying the next part on your list.
SMART goals might be especially helpful. SMART stands for specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound. Setting SMART goals can allow you to keep track of your progress as you work toward becoming a more diligent studier.
Wishing you lots of success this school year!
More information about SMART goals: https://www.asvabprogram.com/media-center-article/65
SMART goals might be especially helpful. SMART stands for specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound. Setting SMART goals can allow you to keep track of your progress as you work toward becoming a more diligent studier.
Wishing you lots of success this school year!
Dina recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Emma’s Answer
Hi Bri! Getting teenagers to focus is tough, especially post-Covid! I think attention span is a big part of this (speaking for myself haha!). Here's some things that work for me and could easily be adapted for your kiddo.
First, create a structured study environment. Designate a quiet and organized space free from distractions like electronics or noisy surroundings. Break study sessions into manageable chunks and build in breaks. For example, have your kid study intensely for 25 minutes, then take a 5 minute break. After completing four cycles, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. This approach can help maintain concentration and prevent burnout. For some people breaks be more effective if the environment is changed (i.e. going outside for a few minutes to get some sun, then going back inside. Or changing the laundry in the laundry room and then going back to the study area).
Additionally, use active learning methods and make learning fun. Instead of passively reading or listening, engage with the material actively. Take notes, summarize concepts in your own words, or teach the information to someone else. Find YouTube videos of Kahn Academy videos for your kid to watch and have them explain the concepts to you in their own words after they watch the video.
You could also work on setting specific goals for each study session and break down larger tasks into smaller, achievable objectives. Implement rewards after completing each goal to stay motivated.
Finally, consider using focus-enhancing apps or website blockers to limit distractions during study periods. Whitelist or Blacklist websites (Blacklist blocks things like FaceBook, Instagram, etc. while Whitelist blocks everything except the school website or whatever your kid needs to get their work done). Hope this helps!
First, create a structured study environment. Designate a quiet and organized space free from distractions like electronics or noisy surroundings. Break study sessions into manageable chunks and build in breaks. For example, have your kid study intensely for 25 minutes, then take a 5 minute break. After completing four cycles, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. This approach can help maintain concentration and prevent burnout. For some people breaks be more effective if the environment is changed (i.e. going outside for a few minutes to get some sun, then going back inside. Or changing the laundry in the laundry room and then going back to the study area).
Additionally, use active learning methods and make learning fun. Instead of passively reading or listening, engage with the material actively. Take notes, summarize concepts in your own words, or teach the information to someone else. Find YouTube videos of Kahn Academy videos for your kid to watch and have them explain the concepts to you in their own words after they watch the video.
You could also work on setting specific goals for each study session and break down larger tasks into smaller, achievable objectives. Implement rewards after completing each goal to stay motivated.
Finally, consider using focus-enhancing apps or website blockers to limit distractions during study periods. Whitelist or Blacklist websites (Blacklist blocks things like FaceBook, Instagram, etc. while Whitelist blocks everything except the school website or whatever your kid needs to get their work done). Hope this helps!
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hi!
There are many things you can do to help! You will have to try them out and see which work best for you. Make sure you have a space that is not cluttered with distractions. Can you focus better with background noise or do you need quiet? Break up your studying time into smaller parts, such as setting a timer for 20 minutes, then take a break. Using highlighters is a good way to really focus on the important information, as is taking notes. Don't study while you are hungry. Some people find that munching on crunchy things like carrots helps to improve their focus. Use an organizer to keep track of when things are due so that you don't have to study the last minute. Flash cards are a great way to reinforce what you are learning. Make sure you are getting enough sleep and some exercise. You might also want to talk to your teachers because they might have some tips.
There are many things you can do to help! You will have to try them out and see which work best for you. Make sure you have a space that is not cluttered with distractions. Can you focus better with background noise or do you need quiet? Break up your studying time into smaller parts, such as setting a timer for 20 minutes, then take a break. Using highlighters is a good way to really focus on the important information, as is taking notes. Don't study while you are hungry. Some people find that munching on crunchy things like carrots helps to improve their focus. Use an organizer to keep track of when things are due so that you don't have to study the last minute. Flash cards are a great way to reinforce what you are learning. Make sure you are getting enough sleep and some exercise. You might also want to talk to your teachers because they might have some tips.
Updated
Afrad’s Answer
One highly effective strategy I found was to utilize any extra time in the classroom, especially when a class ended early. This time can be used to get a head start on assignments or to enhance and review your notes. This strategy is particularly beneficial as the lessons are still fresh in your mind and you are naturally focused on the subjects that have just been discussed.
When it comes to personal study, the environment is key. Seek out a location with minimal distractions. If your home doesn't fit the bill, consider a public library. It's also beneficial to have a study partner who can help keep you on track and hold you accountable.
It's also advisable to take some time to identify your typical distractions and devise strategies to overcome them. This way, you'll be prepared and won't be caught off guard if you start to get distracted.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful!
When it comes to personal study, the environment is key. Seek out a location with minimal distractions. If your home doesn't fit the bill, consider a public library. It's also beneficial to have a study partner who can help keep you on track and hold you accountable.
It's also advisable to take some time to identify your typical distractions and devise strategies to overcome them. This way, you'll be prepared and won't be caught off guard if you start to get distracted.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful!
Updated
Rosaline’s Answer
Hey there! Oh, the world of distractions, right? It's like every little thing suddenly becomes super interesting when it's time to study. 😅 But no worries, I've got some cool tips that might just be the game-changer for you:
1. Prioritize task. Think of your study tasks as episodes of your favorite series. You want to watch the most exciting ones first, right? That's how you should tackle your tasks - start with the most 'gripping' subjects and then move to the easier ones. It's all about keeping the momentum going!
2. Turn studying into a fun activity. Imagine if studying was as engaging as scrolling through your favorite social media feed. Try to make your study sessions interactive. Maybe create a quiz for yourself after each chapter, or pretend you're explaining the topic to a friend (or even your pet!). This way, you're not just staring at pages; you're actively involved in the learning process.
3. Embrace bite-sized learning. Ever heard of the Pomodoro Technique? It's like watching short YouTube videos instead of a three-hour documentary. Study for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and then go again. These short bursts can help keep your focus sharp.
And hey, make your study space a 'no-distraction zone' as much as possible. Maybe put your phone in another room or use an app to block distracting sites.
Now, if you're on the hunt for more awesome study strategies, I've got a treat for you. Check out this list of the best studying techniques. It's like finding a hidden treasure trove of study hacks!
1. Prioritize task. Think of your study tasks as episodes of your favorite series. You want to watch the most exciting ones first, right? That's how you should tackle your tasks - start with the most 'gripping' subjects and then move to the easier ones. It's all about keeping the momentum going!
2. Turn studying into a fun activity. Imagine if studying was as engaging as scrolling through your favorite social media feed. Try to make your study sessions interactive. Maybe create a quiz for yourself after each chapter, or pretend you're explaining the topic to a friend (or even your pet!). This way, you're not just staring at pages; you're actively involved in the learning process.
3. Embrace bite-sized learning. Ever heard of the Pomodoro Technique? It's like watching short YouTube videos instead of a three-hour documentary. Study for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and then go again. These short bursts can help keep your focus sharp.
And hey, make your study space a 'no-distraction zone' as much as possible. Maybe put your phone in another room or use an app to block distracting sites.
Now, if you're on the hunt for more awesome study strategies, I've got a treat for you. Check out this list of the best studying techniques. It's like finding a hidden treasure trove of study hacks!
Updated
A'Naiya’s Answer
I agree with Dina! As someone who gets distracted easily, I find that setting small SMART Goals and physically crossing things off a list helps me stay on task.
Another trick I've learned is the Pomodoro technique. In the Pomodoro Technique, you work for a certain amount of time and then rest. For example, I'll spend 45 minutes working on my to-do list and then spend 15 minutes taking a break by walking around, talking to a friend, grabbing a snack, etc. It allows me to focus on what I need to get done and "treat" myself for staying on tasks.
I will also play "mirroring" videos in the background. They're videos of someone else working with all the sounds so that your environment audibly feels like one that you can be productive in.
It's important to remember that these techniques aren't a one-size-fits-all solution. You may have to try a couple or pull things from each method to find one that works for you. Don't get discouraged; continue to search for what works for you.
Good luck this year!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4u38XirY9c
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7izHQ7Ojt-s
Another trick I've learned is the Pomodoro technique. In the Pomodoro Technique, you work for a certain amount of time and then rest. For example, I'll spend 45 minutes working on my to-do list and then spend 15 minutes taking a break by walking around, talking to a friend, grabbing a snack, etc. It allows me to focus on what I need to get done and "treat" myself for staying on tasks.
I will also play "mirroring" videos in the background. They're videos of someone else working with all the sounds so that your environment audibly feels like one that you can be productive in.
It's important to remember that these techniques aren't a one-size-fits-all solution. You may have to try a couple or pull things from each method to find one that works for you. Don't get discouraged; continue to search for what works for you.
Good luck this year!
A'Naiya recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Darren’s Answer
My go-to for focusing is to listen to music (usually instrumental). It covers outside interference and energizes me.
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. Firstly, I suggest you find a time management tool that suitable to you first, e.g. your phone calendar, MS Outlook, etc.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Put down the time you need to attend school
2. Assign some time every day for your assignment, projects, revision of the material covered in the class, etc. Make sure you will take 5-10 min rest for every 1.5 - 2 hour. Otherwise, you will lose your concentration
3. Make sure you have sufficient time for sleep
4. Do exercise every day if possible
5. Allocate some time for your hobbies, friends & family gathering
You do not need to fill up your time completely. You can keep some 'me' time for reflection and relax.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Put down the time you need to attend school
2. Assign some time every day for your assignment, projects, revision of the material covered in the class, etc. Make sure you will take 5-10 min rest for every 1.5 - 2 hour. Otherwise, you will lose your concentration
3. Make sure you have sufficient time for sleep
4. Do exercise every day if possible
5. Allocate some time for your hobbies, friends & family gathering
You do not need to fill up your time completely. You can keep some 'me' time for reflection and relax.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
To this day I am very easily distracted. I find that blocking off "focus time" has been of benefit.
I even got distracted writing this and just found it on an open tab (true story)
Rather than saying I am going to study for 3 hours, I will break it into 30 minute segments and take little breaks in-between. By getting up and moving around and get the blood flowing, I find that I can focus better.
Also, set yourself up for success. Don't study in front of a tv. Don't have background noise/interruptions. Much of my heavy studying occurred at a park, in a library or by the ocean.
I even got distracted writing this and just found it on an open tab (true story)
Rather than saying I am going to study for 3 hours, I will break it into 30 minute segments and take little breaks in-between. By getting up and moving around and get the blood flowing, I find that I can focus better.
Also, set yourself up for success. Don't study in front of a tv. Don't have background noise/interruptions. Much of my heavy studying occurred at a park, in a library or by the ocean.
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Bri, thank you for reaching out to us. You've asked a great question! The first step is to pinpoint what's distracting you. Try to make a list of these distractions. For instance, your cellphone could be a major distraction if it's always within reach while you're studying. It can easily divide your attention. Once you've identified these distractions, it becomes easier to handle or even eliminate them.
Now that you've listed your distractions, it's time to strategize on how to manage or eliminate them. Ask yourself, do you want to control the distractions, or will you let them control you? Remember, you're not alone in this struggle. Even adults find it challenging to manage distractions that divert their focus.
As a young individual, you have the power to control these distractions, especially once you've identified them and learned how to handle them. Remember, every experience is a learning opportunity. There's nothing wrong with assessing your methods for controlling these distractions. If your current technique isn't working, don't hesitate to reassess and find a new solution.
Successfully managing your daily challenges will prepare you to be an effective manager in the future. Keep pushing forward and never stop learning!
Now that you've listed your distractions, it's time to strategize on how to manage or eliminate them. Ask yourself, do you want to control the distractions, or will you let them control you? Remember, you're not alone in this struggle. Even adults find it challenging to manage distractions that divert their focus.
As a young individual, you have the power to control these distractions, especially once you've identified them and learned how to handle them. Remember, every experience is a learning opportunity. There's nothing wrong with assessing your methods for controlling these distractions. If your current technique isn't working, don't hesitate to reassess and find a new solution.
Successfully managing your daily challenges will prepare you to be an effective manager in the future. Keep pushing forward and never stop learning!