Sarah
2022.01.20 17:04
1734
1.
Study at your biological prime time
Biological prime time was first coined in the book Work the System by Sam Carpenter, which identifies the period of time when you feel you're most productive within a day.
However, such prime time varies among different people. So we have early birds and night owls. you might be able to achieve the highest level of concentration studying in the morning, or at night.
After you've found your most productive hours, you can then optimize your workload by focusing on the most difficult tasks first when you're at your peak productivity.
2.
Remove distraction from both inside and outside
What could be your outside distraction?
Your study desk, for example. Is it stacked with all kinds of stuff?
If so, it's time to tidy your desk so that next time you wouldn't speed too much time finding the things you want.
How about your inside distraction?
I mean the distracting thoughts you might be having while studying.
-"The newly-opened restaurant seems nice."
-"Bummer, I failed the test."
-"Why is Susan upset this morning?"
...
Distracting thoughts will only slow down your studying effectiveness and efficiency. A few minutes of wondering might take several minutes or even hours to get your thoughts back on track.
That's when you need to make classification and a to do list to prioritize your workload. So you'll need less time to find what you need and get more things done.
3.
Set a time limit
Stress can be a good thing. Appropriate time limit can in fact unleash your potentials.
Research https://www.hormone.org/your-health-and-hormones/glands-and-hormones-a-to-z/hormones/norepinephrineshows shows that your body will automatically release Norepinephrine once your brain perceives anything stressful. And Norepinephrine plays an important role in increasing concentration, as well as improving memory.
In other words, you might double your workload within a given time when you're under pressure.
That's basically how Pomodoro Technique works by breaking your times into 25-minute chunks with five-minute breaks in between. You can take a longer break of 15 to 20 minute after four chunks.
That's how you make the most of your time and become productive without getting distracted.
4.
Turn off your study brain (sometimes)
As mentioned, certain pressure can improve your productivity.
However, if you study under pressure all the time, your productivity will undoubtedly decline. You won't remember what you've learned and you're less likely to stay focused.
If that's the case, you need a break.
Like a car running out of fuel, how can you expect it to move forward? Break time is the fule you need at this particular moment.
Even one minute away from your study will be adequate enough to restart your engine.
5.
Enjoy alone time
It's getting harder to have some time of your own these days.
Technology has largely shortened the time needed for communication. So we communicate, as long as we have time.
But a second thought, do you really have time?
When you generously give your time to others, what about the time for yourself?
Next time, say no to parties that you don't want to attend. Cut off unhealthy relationship that only causes trouble than happiness. And put your needs first for a while.
You spend most of your day at campus. And you be around with friends all the time. Even when you do have time on your own, you give it all to your phone.
How about you spend some time with yourself. It's beneficial to your personal development as you get to focus on yourself during this time to think, to explore and to be creative.
Last thing but not least, have a great time no matter what!
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