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5 Practical Tips to Improve Concentration While Studying: A Guide to Optimize Your Learning Environment and Study Method
Do you have difficulty concentrating while studying? Are you constantly distracted by notifications on your smartphone? Don't worry, you're not alone. Studying can be a real challenge, especially when you can't stay focused. But don't get discouraged, there are some tricks you can use to help you concentrate better and optimize your study time. In this article, we present you with five practical tips on how to concentrate while studying. With these tricks, you can study better and achieve your learning goals.
Creating the perfect study environment with quiet rooms, libraries, and study halls
Distraction is the number one enemy of concentration, so the study environment can make a difference for your concentration. Find a place where there are no noises or other entities that can distract you: a quiet room or a silent library can be good options, as well as any other place where there are no other people or things that can distract you. If you prefer to study in a quiet room, make sure the place is well-lit and ventilated, the temperature is comfortable, and there are no objects or clutter that can distract you. Also, try to eliminate sources of noise or bright light that can interfere with concentration.
Certainly, everyone has their preferences when it comes to the study environment, some prefer to study in silence in their room, while others need some background noise. For the latter, the ideal place to study could be a library or a study hall.
Discovering the perfect study method for your learning style
Finding the most suitable study method for you can make a difference and turn hours of tiring and frustrating study into stimulating and productive ones. If you manage to find a study method that is functional to your learning style, it will be easier to maintain high concentration. But how do you find the right method? Start experimenting with different learning techniques. For example, try taking notes by hand or with a tablet, try recording lectures, watching videos or listening to podcasts on the topic. Alternatively, you could try using the method of mind maps. Experiment with different methods and techniques and see which one works best for you.
Furthermore, keep in mind that your study method may change over time. What works for you today may not work tomorrow. So, don't be too rigid in choosing your study method and be ready to change if necessary. By adapting your study method to your learning style (visual, auditory, kinesthetic), you can maximize your results and learn better. For example, if you are a visual learner, you could try studying using online mind mapping apps.
The pomodoro technique and regular breaks
Concentration can decrease over time, so it's important to use a timer or time management technique to divide study time into periods of active work interspersed with breaks. For example, you can use the Pomodoro technique, a very simple but also very effective method. It works like this: work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break, and repeat the cycle until you have completed the task.
Take regular breaks. Studying for hours without interruption is not only exhausting, but also useless because it compromises your concentration and limits learning. Take regular breaks to relax, have a healthy snack, take a walk, do sports or anything else that helps you recharge your batteries. This way, you can return to your studies with more energy and concentration.
Setting goals and rewards for motivation
Planning goals to achieve for your studies can help you focus and stay motivated. Instead of thinking about all the material you have to study and feeling overwhelmed, try setting personal goals for each study session, such as finishing a chapter, solving an exercise, or answering specific questions. This way, you will always know what you have to do and can focus on a specific task.
Moreover, don't forget to reward yourself for your efforts. After each study session, do something you enjoy, such as watching an episode of your favorite series, meeting with friends, or doing sports. This way, you can enjoy the results of your work and stay motivated to continue studying.
Tips to turn off your phone and block distractions
Calls, WhatsApp messages, social media notifications, and other tabs open on your browser are enemies of concentration. When you start studying, try turning off your phone or putting it on do not disturb mode, close browser tabs that are not related to your study, and disable computer notifications. This way, you can focus on your task without being interrupted by messages or sounds that could distract you.
Consider using tools to block this type of distraction. There are websites or study applications that can temporarily block certain apps to help you concentrate better. For example, you can use Freedom or Cold Turkey to block the apps or websites that distract you the most while you study. Additionally, if you work on a computer, you can use the focus mode of some browsers, such as Google Chrome's focus mode. This mode automatically removes distractions from your browser, such as notifications or search suggestions.
Essential tips for maintaining focus and mental fitness while studying
Last but not least: don't forget to take care of yourself. Studying can be stressful, so it's important to exercise, eat healthy, and get enough sleep. These things can help you maintain focus and stay physically and mentally fit.
Don't be too hard on yourself. Concentration is not something that can always be controlled, so don't worry if you sometimes can't concentrate as much as you would like. Do your best and don't get discouraged if it doesn't always go as planned. With a little practice and the right tricks, you will learn to concentrate better and make the most of your study time.
