The Key is Concentration

A skill that will be used for the rest of your life is learning to concentrate. It is a skill you use while studying and can be applied to any kind of work. The key to concentration is focusing on the task at hand to eliminate any possible distractions. It is common to read through material and discover you have no idea what you have just read or, attend presentations and have difficulty paying attention to what is being said. To help you stay focused here are some suggestions.

When scheduling, try to stick to a consistent and efficient routine. If possible avoid studying at different times. Studying one day late at night and the next day in the afternoon is counter-productive. Once decided, avoid conflicts, by marking down these times in a scheduler or on a calendar.

Where you study needs to be quiet. Find a designated study spot free of distractions. This is so necessary that if you live in a noisy house or dormitory you may even have to go to a study room like the library outside your residence.

You need to remember to take study breaks. Take about a 10 minute break for every hour. Make it anything different in a different location. Get up and walk into another room and listen to music, grab a snack, or play a game. This brief rest is needed to refresh the mind so it does not wander.

Day dreaming can easily become a struggle while studying. Thinking about plans for the night or tomorrow’s events is not uncommon. Avoid daydreaming by asking yourself questions about the material as you study it. This will keep your mind focused.

A separate but related subject is presentations. If you have trouble focusing during presentations look over the notes of any related talks. Also read the material pertaining to the presentation beforehand so you can anticipate the main ideas that will be covered. Make yourself show outward interest. Having an attentive expression and posture will self-motivate internal interest. Just as it is important to resist distractions with study it is equally important during presentations. By sitting in front of the room you are away from disruptive occurrences and people. This move will allow you to focus on the presenter.

You will find that by learning this skill you have increased the control you have over some of the factors that govern your life. Only a few minor adjustments in your studying habits can go a long way in improving your concentration.