Tips for Keeping Your Focus While Studying

Focusing on homework and studying can be tough, especially when you have so many fun things to do on your phone or computer, which are probably right next to you as you work. But finding ways to focus while studying is an important life skill that will serve you well for years to come. The truth is, focusing on the things you need to do over the things you want to do doesn’t get any easier with age. There are always going to be distractions, and developing good study habits now will lead to better work habits later on.

Get Comfortable

It’s important to know what posture and seating will help you do your best work. If sitting up straight at a desk is uncomfortable, try taking one of PBteen’s comfy lapdesks to your couch. You can even sit on the floor or get in bed if that works for you. Just make sure you’re in a position that’s comfortable enough so that you aren’t distracted or constantly having to readjust.

Focus on Your Goals

Many teens may wonder why doing homework or studying for tests matters. However, if you have goals, whether it’s going to college or becoming a star athlete, a good work ethic is essential to success. Being able to accept responsibility and commit to projects you may not want to do is part of what adulthood is all about. Keeping a pinboard above your work area with pictures of where you want to go in life can help you stay focused on working toward the future rather than thinking about what you’d rather be doing in that particular moment.

Study Smarter, Not Harder

Panicking and cramming for a test for five hours the day before may take longer, but it’s actually not as effective as putting in just 10 or 15 minutes each night the week before. You’re not going to remember everything from your last-minute cram session, and you’ll probably lose sleep and suffer from anxiety, as well. Prepare your study materials early on so you can keep them organized and accessible in your workspace.

Focus On Getting Rest

You probably already know that concentrating is way harder if you’re fighting to stay awake while you’re working on something that isn’t super exciting. Give yourself plenty of time to sleep, even if that means sacrificing some time doing activities that may seem more fun. If you prioritize getting to bed at a reasonable hour, you may see an improvement in your academic performance without having to make any big changes to your study routine.

Fuel Your Brain

Just like being tired isn’t good for your concentration, letting yourself get too hungry can be detrimental, as well. Plus, if you aren’t getting enough of the right kinds of food, it can impact your overall health, not just your study habits. Keep healthy snacks on hand that you actually enjoy. Your parents might even let you keep a mini fridge in your room if it means you’ll be eating more fruits and vegetables. While chips, candy and other kinds of junk food are tasty, they aren’t going to provide you with the nutrients your brain needs to function at its best.

Reward Yourself

If you’ve been working hard and can see that all your extra effort is paying off with good grades and respect from your teachers, you should definitely keep it up. However, it’s also important to have some fun. Just like developing good work habits now will help you later in life, having the ability to step away and enjoy yourself (something your parents might refer to as “work-life balance”) is just as important. Reward yourself for your hard work by hanging out with friends or even laying down your study materials for a test you feel confident about to sit on the couch and watch some TV. Figuring out how to blend the two priorities – work and fun – is the key to a happy life.