How to Focus on Studying

20 authors | 80 revisions | Last updated: September 14, 2012

Studying for any exam and test can be difficult and stressful, many people find it hard to focus on the task you're trying to accomplish. However, there are some short, simple steps that you can follow to help you focus when studying.

Edit Steps

1
Find a suitable studying environment. Your bedroom or classroom isn't always the best possible place. Find a nice, quiet place with a large, comfortable chair, like your sitting room, preferably without a television, a computer or a cell phone within your reach.

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2
Collect revision materials, such as pens, highlighters, rulers etc before you study. Do not plan to look for them in the middle of studying. It can be really distracting at times, so prepare everything you think you need.
3
Collect suitable revision snacks. No energy drinks or coffee, because sooner or later, you will crash out. Cereal bars, fruit, and water are good, because they are simple and effective at releasing carbohydrates. However, don't use food as a reward.
4
Find a study partner. Pick someone who is sensible and focused like you are on the same task. Don't always pick your best friend, as you may ruin both your concentrations by chitchatting. Having a study partner is a great idea, as you can bounce ideas off each other, and see things form a different perspective as yourself.
5
Take short breaks. After 45 minutes of studying, take a 10 minute break and do something different, but get back to your studying after the break and the break shouldn't be longer than 20 minutes.
6
Don't panic! When you panic, you make mistakes, so keep calm throughout. If you successfully planned your revision, you will have no need to panic when the exam looms. Take a deep breath, tell yourself "I can do this" and cool down.
7
Minimize computer use. Especially the internet. You learn better when you write things out yourself. Also refrain from using your cell phone as you will be replying to texts every minute, which is very distracting.
8
Get Motivated! If you do your revision well and prepare for the exam, you will do fine. Get to a point with your revision so you can enjoy the exam when it happens. Do not think that the exam is a big deal, think of it as something to challenge your learning.
9
Be relaxed! Before studying don't listen to hard music, just some music that makes you relax, but not falling asleep.