Concentrating while studying...

[Debitt]

I've been running into a lot of problems while studying as of late. No matter where I am, I always get distracted. I can never seem to write questions down right, and my attention wanders while I'm doing my work. =/ This is especially bad when I'm trying to do math homework. Does anyone have any pointers on how to stay focused? x_x;

[Kaori]

Do you typically listen to music while studying? Although some people claims that this helps them concentrate, people statistically tend to do better without it. The exception is Baroque and Classical era music, which for some reason seems to actually enhance brain functioning--but the effect only lasts a few minutes past when the music stops.

Other than that, all I can say is that the advice I have usually seen is to not study for more than an hour at a time and to take breaks of about 10 minutes in between the 1-hour increments of studying. I rarely actually follow this practice myself, however, so I can't really make any statements about its effectiveness.

[shooraijin]

Yes, I didn't study in long blocks either, although I didn't study a great deal in medical school as it was ...

Those people who sat there and pulled all nighters, also, probably had little to no retention. Better to be well-rested rather than have completed the textbook, but not slept.

[TrigunX89]

I've had a lot of trouble concentrating lately as well. I came to this thread looking for pointers for myself. ^_^;;

All I can really do is back up what others have said before me. They gave good advice. As for music, my guess is that Kaori is right. I have, however, found that listening to techno and other instrumental stuff (not necessarily Baroque and Classical) have also helped. Also Japanese music is good, because I don't get distracted by the words. (I don't understand them.) You can't argue that techno beats won't get you pumped up. (or give you a headache)

[Mave]

I hope these pointers help.

Time duration: Study in 45 min cycles. I heard that's how long someone can concentrate on something in general and it is true for me. Take 5-10 minutes break by doing something completely different but not addictive, OK? Use a timer or clock to help discipline you back into studying if necessary.

Location: Somewhere quiet and away from distraction BUT never your bed. Just don't. Sit on a chair upright . I usually have snacks or drinks right to me as well. EDIT: Gameboxes and computers w/ Internet count as big-time distractions. So stay away from them.

Music: I usually listen to any music but for heavy studying or stuff that needs serious concentration (like say, Biochemistry, Engineering or Food Law), I had to forgo the music.

Note-taking: This helps me the most. Whenever I'm studying, I don't just read. I have a notepad next to me and I'm taking down notes or summarizing points. It helps me to 1) concentrate and 2) memorize important points.

Good luck!

[Debitt]

I tried turning off my music for a bit yesterday, and it really did help. ^^; I've tried both Japanese music and techno, but I can understand a fair deal of the Japanese and techno makes me hyper. o.o;

I admit, I should start taking less breaks (my attention wanders so easily. >.<) and working downstairs instead of in my room or near the computer. =X Note taking would also be a good idea. I'm so bad with that.

*hugs for all* ^_^ Thanks for the advice, guys! Hopefully I'll be able to start being more productive. =X Though I've noticed, especially with math, that I tend to focus better in class then at home. x_x; So frustrating.

[mitsuki lover]

I guess I'm weirdly wired,but I could never study for more than 1/2 hour.
Also having the tv on,etc. never really bothered me.I still ended up with a
C average.

[Kaori]

[quote="Kokoro Daisuke"]I've tried both Japanese music and techno, but I can understand a fair deal of the Japanese and techno makes me hyper. o.o]

I am the same way with Japanese music. I used to be able to concentrate while listening to it becuase I didn't recognize any of the words; but now that I can actually pick out a few words here and there I find myself trying to listen to the lyrics, even though I am far from being able to understand anything.

Good luck with your studying--I hope things go well for you.

[Mr. SmartyPants]

im so distracted in studying to the point i never study o_O

[dreamhacker]

Man, just the thread I needed! Haven't been able to concentrate when studying anymore, but maybe this can solve the problem. But what is this thing about the music? I always listen to Japanese music (.hack//SIGN and other anime OST*s etc.), and as I yet don't understand any of it, it shouldn't make any problem?