1. Set clear, achievable goals
Think of a learning session as a journey, big or small. Without a goal, you will simply wander aimlessly. Yes, you may see something, but you will never reach the final destination…
Set clear, achievable goals for each learning session. These goals should be specific and time-bound (e.g., finish reading chapter 10 of a book today, solve the 3 most difficult problems by 8 p.m., etc.). This approach gives students a sense of direction and purpose.
2. Break the material into smaller parts
Instead of trying to cram all the information into your head at once, break down the learning material into smaller chunks. This makes the task less overwhelming and easier to handle.
3. Create a distraction-free environment
Your study environment should be a mini sanctuary, free from noise, distractions, and devices. Turn off notifications on your phone, find a quieter spot, put on some noise-blocking headphones, and make sure you have all the materials and tools you need on hand before you start studying.
A clean, organized space also reduces distractions. Sometimes a change of scenery is also necessary
4. Use a timer
Using a timer helps many people stay focused, motivate themselves to study, and at the same time, allows them to manage their time effectively.
For example, the Pomodoro method recommends studying for 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break. This method helps keep your mind fresh, your concentration sharp, and your energy levels high.
5. Create a study routine
Just as the best basketball or football teams have a practice regimen, you should create a study routine and stick to it. A routine can help your mind switch to “study mode” at certain times of the day, increasing motivation and facilitating concentration.
6. Be physically active
Physical activity is inseparable from good results in the fields of science and mental work. Regular exercise strengthens cognitive functions, improves concentration and reduces stress. Even a short walk or a few stretching exercises will refresh a student’s mind and help him regain strength to concentrate and force himself to study.
7. Try mindfulness exercises and meditation
Mindfulness exercises and meditation can be compared to brain overload. These practices help reduce stress and improve concentration. In today’s world, students are faced with an endless amount of stimuli, not to mention internal, close-knit pressures.
A few minutes in silence, with ASMR or soothing soundtracks before starting a study session can prepare your mind and relax it.
8. Use active learning methods
Active learning is another method that allows you to better feel progress and absorb the material. Greater confidence in what you have learned helps you find motivation.
Instead of just reading the text, engage with the material. This can be done by making your own summaries, creating personal mind maps, sharing knowledge with others, or thinking about where you can apply what you have learned, how you would connect it to what you have already learned.
9. Take regular breaks
Forcing yourself is not a pleasant thing. But sometimes it is necessary to achieve your goals.
However, forcing yourself to study and work too hard will inevitably cause mental fatigue. Then you get a headache, you have no energy, you feel sad and, it seems, nothing is getting done.
Therefore, do not think only about how to force yourself to study. Take short breaks every now and then. The brain needs to rest and gain new strength. Then you will study effectively and significantly replenish your knowledge base.
10. Take care of a healthy lifestyle
Your ability to concentrate is greatly influenced not only by the preparation of the mind, but also by the preparation of the body. This requires a balanced diet (not just fast food), at least 7.5 hours of sleep and regular physical activity. The brain uses a lot of energy, so its reserves must be enough for the entire period of study.