5 ways to maintain concentration during revision
In order to help you succeed, here are some top tips on keeping your concentration going during that final stretch. Eat well and regularly Some people choose to skip breakfast […]
In order to help you succeed, here are some top tips on keeping your concentration going during that final stretch.
Eat well and regularly
Some people choose to skip breakfast to get straight to it, while others can get distracted by food and make themselves a snack every hour. Having a regular, balanced diet will make sure your body has the fuel it needs to keep you going, without sharps spikes or dips in energy levels. Try planning out or preparing your meals in advance to make sure you have enough brain food, without it eating into your study time! Drinking water regularly will also help you stay more alert.
Find your rhythm
Some of us are morning people, while others prefer to work in the evening. Some of us work best in 45-minute time slots while others can throw ourselves at a task for hours on end. There’s no right or wrong: the most important thing is to find what works best for you and stick to it. Try to block out a couple of evenings a week if that’s when you’re most focussed, or try an hour every morning before work if you prefer short, sharp bursts. And remember to take breaks, especially from complex work – allow yourself to rest completely to keep energy levels up for longer periods.
Be in the right environment
Your work or study environment plays a large role in your ability to concentrate, so make it comfortable and relaxing. If possible, find a space where you can close the door to avoid distractions – no phone, no tv, and if possible no interruptions. Some people like to play music or have other sounds (for example crashing waves to keep them company), but don’t turn it up too loud. Pictures can also help focus the mind – landscapes or natural images can be calming and good for the brain.
One thing at a time
When it comes to studying, it really is important to give it your undivided attention to make sure you get it right. Even if you have conflicting priorities, or just a lot to do, schedule everything in. Those other tasks will then have their own designated time for you to worry about them, and your study time becomes just that. You’ll be amazed at how efficient you can be just doing one thing at a time.
Just one more…
If you’re coming to the end of your study session, make yourself do one more thing – a question, a page, a chapter – so you can finish on a high. Give that “one more thing” all your energy for a short amount of time, and your whole session will seem much more productive. Doing so regularly will extend your concentration span and help you focus for longer.
