2 answers
Yahaya
Student
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
1
Question
Asked
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How do you have more focus in school
I am always getting distracted.
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2 answers
Melody Tharpe
Education - Teacher
169
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Melody’s Answer
Hello Yahaya,
I am a guide to students who find their coursework challenging. It's not uncommon to hear them say that they find class uninteresting or that other things are more captivating. Let's start by identifying what distracts you. Could it be noises, scents, visuals, or tactile sensations? Depending on your primary distractions, there are several strategies you might consider:
1. Physical factors (like low energy or dehydration) - Ensure you're eating and drinking adequately. If your body isn't well-nourished, it'll demand your attention.
2. External distractions (such as classmates, computers, school bells, noises from other rooms or outside) - Consider using noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to minimize these distractions. You could also request to change your seating arrangement to reduce exposure to these distractions.
3. Internal distractions (like thoughts or worries) - Try jotting these down on paper to clear your mind. If you're concerned about privacy, write in code. For example, use the first letter of each word, or assign numbers to different topics (1 for family, 2 for grades, and so on).
4. Challenging or confusing tasks - Consult your teacher and ask for written instructions that you can refer to as needed. You could also request a study partner to help you make sense of things.
5. Lack of motivation - This can be tricky. If you're feeling bored or unmotivated, you'll need to find a way to inspire yourself. Maybe small rewards for completing tasks or a big treat for making it through an entire class with notes (how about some ice cream?) could work.
6. Absence of urgency - Similar to the above, establish milestones with time targets and reward yourself as you achieve them.
This might seem overwhelming, but take your time to read through it and discuss it with someone who knows you well. They might have additional suggestions for you. I hope you'll find these strategies helpful.
I am a guide to students who find their coursework challenging. It's not uncommon to hear them say that they find class uninteresting or that other things are more captivating. Let's start by identifying what distracts you. Could it be noises, scents, visuals, or tactile sensations? Depending on your primary distractions, there are several strategies you might consider:
1. Physical factors (like low energy or dehydration) - Ensure you're eating and drinking adequately. If your body isn't well-nourished, it'll demand your attention.
2. External distractions (such as classmates, computers, school bells, noises from other rooms or outside) - Consider using noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to minimize these distractions. You could also request to change your seating arrangement to reduce exposure to these distractions.
3. Internal distractions (like thoughts or worries) - Try jotting these down on paper to clear your mind. If you're concerned about privacy, write in code. For example, use the first letter of each word, or assign numbers to different topics (1 for family, 2 for grades, and so on).
4. Challenging or confusing tasks - Consult your teacher and ask for written instructions that you can refer to as needed. You could also request a study partner to help you make sense of things.
5. Lack of motivation - This can be tricky. If you're feeling bored or unmotivated, you'll need to find a way to inspire yourself. Maybe small rewards for completing tasks or a big treat for making it through an entire class with notes (how about some ice cream?) could work.
6. Absence of urgency - Similar to the above, establish milestones with time targets and reward yourself as you achieve them.
This might seem overwhelming, but take your time to read through it and discuss it with someone who knows you well. They might have additional suggestions for you. I hope you'll find these strategies helpful.
Angela Cox
Consulting Program Partner Advisor
84
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Angela’s Answer
Hi Yahaya! This is a great question. I struggled a lot with focusing and concentration in school from when I was a kid all the way through college. I finally figured out how I could help myself. A few things that helped me were taking A LOT of notes in class, sitting in the front row in class and getting a good nights rest. I know sitting in the front row sounds terrible but after a while, it gets easier and less intimidating. Good luck!