Recently viewed courses

Recently viewed.

Find Your Dream School

This site uses various technologies, as described in our Privacy Policy, for personalization, measuring website use/performance, and targeted advertising, which may include storing and sharing information about your site visit with third parties. By continuing to use this website you consent to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

   COVID-19 Update: To help students through this crisis, The Princeton Review will continue our "Enroll with Confidence" refund policies. For full details, please click here.

Enter your email to unlock an extra $25 off an SAT or ACT program!

By submitting my email address. i certify that i am 13 years of age or older, agree to recieve marketing email messages from the princeton review, and agree to terms of use., 9 ways to stop homework distractions and get your work done.

Do any of these scenarios sound familiar to you? You try to read and get distracted by Snapchat. You’re doing your math homework until you’re little sister comes barreling through the kitchen. The new BuzzFeed quiz sounds way more appealing than starting your French paper .

End homework distractions

Research shows  that even a 3-second interruption (like the time it takes to glance at your buzzing phone) has the power to completely derail the task you’re working on and makes you more likely to mess up.

Want to defeat homework distractions once and for all? Here are nine interruption busters to help you concentrate on homework without getting distracted to  reach your goals .

1. Make homework a habit.

You brush your teeth before bed; it’s just what happens. Same with homework. You do homework after school. Or, you do homework after dinner. Your schedule might vary from day to day, but in general being consistent about when homework will happen assures that it will become second nature.

2. Find your perfect study space.

Doing your homework in roughly the same place every night will help cement the routine. Whether it’s the public library, on your bed, or at the kitchen table, find a study space to make your own.

3. Get rid of unnecessary interruptions.

Distractions are often electronic but not always (rowdy younger siblings definitely count!). Wear headphones. Silence those enticing app notifications. You probably need your computer to do research or type up your lit essay  so consider using a browser extension like StayFocused to block chronically distracting sites (like your favorite blog or Instagram).

Read More: 8 Tricks to Finish Your Homework Faster

4. Plan ahead.

Take a look at everything you have to do and gather up ALL the gear you’ll need to do it. Have a trig quiz ? Grab your calculator. Reading a  chapter for biology ? Make sure a highlighter is handy. Going on a search for supplies is a surefire way to derail homework.

5. Big projects? Start small.

If you’ve got a big assignment looming, like a research paper , stay motivated by completing a small piece of the project every few days. It’s easy to get distracted if the project seems too complicated or has a distant due date. Even writing just a few sentences a night will keep your essay on track.

6. Give your brain a break.

Our brains and bodies aren’t wired to do the same thing for too long. Attempting to complete a complicated geometry problem set  in one sitting could end up frustrating you and make you want to give up. Make sure you are allowing yourself plenty of breaks—walk the dog, have a dance party, scan your Twitter feed—to get the blood flowing and get the brain moving.

Read More: Not Sure if an Online Tutor is Right For You? Let Us Change Your Mind.

7. Shift subjects.

You’ve got homework from lots of different teachers across multiple subjects. Who says you have to finish your Spanish dialogue  before moving on to chemistry ? When your mind starts wandering or you’ve just had enough, it’s ok (and often very productive!) to move on to something else. You may end up shifting subjects a few times before your assignments are completed.

8. Get loose.

Your study routine doesn’t have to be monotonous, especially if you are “actively” rather than passively involved with homework  So take notes on passages as you read them. Or, create flashcards for vocab words. Don’t just study the biology diagram; try to replicate it. The more senses that are involved in the work, the more you will retain and the less likely you will zone out and read the same thing over and over with no comprehension.

9. Still can’t focus? We can help!

Sometimes an “outside force” can be very motivating. If you’re stuck, our online tutors are available 24/7 and can help you get back on track in just a few minutes.

TRY A FREE TUTORING SESSION

  • Tutoring  
  • College  

Explore Colleges For You

Explore Colleges For You

Connect with our featured colleges to find schools that both match your interests and are looking for students like you.

Career Quiz

Career Quiz

Take our short quiz to learn which is the right career for you.

Connect With College Coaches

Get Started on Athletic Scholarships & Recruiting!

Join athletes who were discovered, recruited & often received scholarships after connecting with NCSA's 42,000 strong network of coaches.

Best 389 Colleges

Best 389 Colleges

165,000 students rate everything from their professors to their campus social scene.

SAT Prep Courses

1400+ course, act prep courses, free sat practice test & events,  1-800-2review, free digital sat prep try our self-paced plus program - for free, get a 14 day trial, what would you score on the mcat today.

Thank you! Look for the MCAT Review Guide in your inbox.

I already know my score.

Enrollment Advisor

1-800-2REVIEW (800-273-8439) ext. 1

1-877-LEARN-30

Mon-Fri 9AM-10PM ET

Sat-Sun 9AM-8PM ET

Student Support

1-800-2REVIEW (800-273-8439) ext. 2

Mon-Fri 9AM-9PM ET

Sat-Sun 8:30AM-5PM ET

Partnerships

  • Teach or Tutor for Us

College Readiness

International

Advertising

Affiliate/Other

  • Enrollment Terms & Conditions
  • Accessibility
  • Cigna Medical Transparency in Coverage

Register Book

Local Offices: Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM

  • SAT Subject Tests

Academic Subjects

  • Social Studies

Find the Right College

  • College Rankings
  • College Advice
  • Applying to College
  • Financial Aid

School & District Partnerships

  • Professional Development
  • Advice Articles
  • Private Tutoring
  • Mobile Apps
  • Local Offices
  • International Offices
  • Work for Us
  • Affiliate Program
  • Partner with Us
  • Advertise with Us
  • International Partnerships
  • Our Guarantees
  • Accessibility – Canada

Privacy Policy | CA Privacy Notice | Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information | Your Opt-Out Rights | Terms of Use | Site Map

©2024 TPR Education IP Holdings, LLC. All Rights Reserved. The Princeton Review is not affiliated with Princeton University

TPR Education, LLC (doing business as “The Princeton Review”) is controlled by Primavera Holdings Limited, a firm owned by Chinese nationals with a principal place of business in Hong Kong, China.

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

How to Focus on Homework and Actually Get Things Done: 12 Time Management Hacks for Busy Students

  • September 15, 2022

A teen using his laptop and learning how to focus on homework

Chances are, you’ve had some days when you felt overwhelmed after a long day at school. You couldn’t imagine doing anything other than plopping down in front of the television, let alone finding out how to focus on your homework. 

How can you overcome the resistance and get it done? How do you get your mind to include this task in your day as well?

With just a few adjustments, you will be able to expand your capacity to concentrate.

Why Can’t I Focus on My Homework?

Countless factors constantly fight for your attention : social media, people, overthinking, and anxiety. All of this can make you feel as though you have little control over your mind. 

If you want to start to focus better on your homework, you’ll need to set your mind up for success. Remove all distractions .

Here are two key principles that can help you be more successful in your studies:

1. Identify the distractions in your surroundings

What are the things in your daily life that take your mind away from your studies? Clearly identifying these distractions can help you understand both the problem and what causes it.

Among our environmental distractions, digital distractions are one of the worst kinds, and according to a number of studies , their effect is on the rise in the classroom.

If you’re looking to gain more concentration and, thus, form better study habits, question your online behavior first and foremost.

2. Limit the use of technology to find focus

What’s the role of social media in your daily life? Have you ever sat down to calculate how social media distracts you from doing the things you should be doing?

When you are wondering how to focus on homework long after you’ve put your phone away, you’re still thinking about the last posts you saw on Instagram. The sound of new notifications can be enough to reroute our attention from the task at hand.

And then comes the information overload, the fear of missing out, and the all-too-common signs of addictive behavior. Technology is affecting your mind more than ever, and it’s taking your focus away.

A teenager learning how to focus on homework

How to Focus on Homework: 12 Things You Can Do to Be More Indistractible

Here are 12 tips on how to stay focused while completing your homework, taught by superbrain coach Jim Kwik and habit transformation expert Nir Eyal .

  • Make a routine
  • Set up a study-friendly environment
  • Avoid heavy meals
  • Organize your study notes
  • Tell others to stay away
  • Listen to study music
  • Set deadlines
  • Take brain breaks
  • Use discomfort as motivation for productivity
  • Use time blocking
  • Let go of thoughts that distract you
  • Reimagine your task

Let’s look at each study hack in more detail.

1. Make a routine

Routines help you be productive without exerting as much effort. When you have homework to do, a study routine can be the reason you actually sit down, set enough time aside, concentrate, and stay focused until you complete the project.

This process doesn’t need to be complicated: just tell yourself that you will sit at your desk at home once you’re back from school. Put your phone on silent, make an outline of the work that needs to get done, and simply begin with what’s most important.

2. Set up a study-friendly environment

A place for everything and everything in its place. That applies to studying, too.

Lying in bed with your notebook is considered a distraction, as is being in the living room with your laptop while others are doing their activities.

You need an isolated place when you decide to focus on your homework. Make it feel comfortable, keep it organized, keep it clean, and consider putting up some motivational posters or positive affirmations .

3. Avoid heavy meals

It’s not advisable to have a big meal beforehand. Big meals can ruin your focus and make you feel sluggish and lazy because it takes a big amount of time and energy for your body to digest. A snack is okay.

There are also some foods , though, that are just plain bad for your productivity. For example, soda, candy, and fried foods are all full of sugar and have no nutritional value. They make your insulin spike up, but then it crashes very fast, which makes you feel depleted of energy.

4. Organize your study notes

Prioritize your work. Keep lists and place the most important items on top. Then work on the items that you should get done first.

It helps to outline what you need to do, breaking it down into smaller, more manageable steps. Use colors to highlight the essentials . 

This makes it all look much simpler and you’re more likely to actually get started. The brain loves organization and it won’t be so likely to procrastinate when it knows you have a structure set in place.

5. Tell others to stay away

Don’t be afraid to let others know that you’re studying and require some time and space to get your work done. Decide on fixed hours for studying and tell your friends and family members that you won’t be available during that time of the day.

If others respect your study time, you’ll be more inclined to respect it as well. 

6. Listen to study music

There are many tracks out there designed to help your mind focus. Whether you use binaural beats or just instrumental music, the right sounds can really help to tune your brain into a productive frequency.

This meditation is also great to listen to; it puts your mind in a clear, concise, and ready-to-take-on-the-world mode:

7. Set deadlines

Even if your teacher has already given you deadlines for each assignment, set new ones yourself at earlier dates.

This helps you build discipline, learn how to focus on studying, and prioritize every day.

8. Take brain breaks

Frequent breaks actually increase your productivity and focus. You’ll see that after each study session, the brain needs to be engaged with something different —  you need to activate other parts of your brain before going back to your studies so that you can reach top performance.

You can also use the Superbrain Yoga Technique. In the Superbrain Quest, Jim talks about implementing it during your breaks. It goes as follows:

  • Massage the left lobe of your ear with your right hand, and the right one with your left hand
  • Inhale and squat down
  • Exhale and come back up while continuing massaging your opposite ear with the opposite hand
  • Keep going for a few minutes
As your body moves, your brain grooves. — Jim Kwik, trainer of Mindvalley’s Superbrain Quest

9. Use discomfort as motivation for productivity

The brain is wired to protect us from danger, and our ancestors needed this function of the psyche to survive. Discomfort is associated with danger, and whenever they felt it, they knew it was time to run away or protect themselves in one way or another.

In today’s world, danger isn’t so imminent. However, discomfort is, and the brain still works to protect us in the same way. 

So why not use it to your advantage?

Once you have this mindset shift, you can see the discomfort that comes with doing your homework as fuel for moving forward, from pain to pleasure. So instead of procrastinating and avoiding the discomfort, just use it as motivation to get things done.

And maybe you can even save yourself a fun activity to do later in the day, so you have something to look forward to.

10. Use time blocking

You can use time blocking and set a specific amount of time for parts of your homework that needs to be done. For example, you block 30 minutes of reading, then another 30 minutes of writing down highlights from the text. 

This method will give you more structure and support you when you need to focus on school work, as you will have a dedicated structured time to do so.

11. Let go of thoughts that distract you

When you need more concentration, but your thoughts keep getting in the way, here’s a fun visualization exercise you can use:

  • Before you start working on your homework, close down your eyes and imagine a flowing river in front of you. 
  • Now, place every thought on a leaf and let it run down the river while watching it move away from you. 

Do this repeatedly for 5-10 minutes and see how your mind becomes clearer, more productive, and more inspired.

12. Reimagine your task

How can you make the process of doing your homework more fun? Is there any way you can think of to make it more exciting and engaging?

As you introduce play and fun into any task, your capacity to stay focused will increase. So just try out different methods to engage more in your homework. 

For example, what if you made a trivia quest about your history lesson homework? Or what about riddles to make you remember all the characters from the novel you have to read? 

Once you play around with these kinds of games, you might find that focusing on your homework isn’t as boring as you thought it would be.

Unleash the Power of Your Focus

Discovering how to focus on your homework can go beyond schoolwork and actually support you in many other activities you want to do. Concentration is one of the best skills to nurture for your growth.

If you need a little guidance at the beginning of your focusing journey, Mindvalley has it in store for you. 

By unlocking your FREE Mindvalley access , you can check out sample classes from quests that help you develop better focus and study habits, such as Becoming Focused and Indistractable by Nir Eyal and Superbrain by Jim Kwik. You can also immerse yourself in beautiful sounds and guided meditations designed to improve concentration and help you enter the flow state.

The earlier you start, the greater your journey of self-discovery will be. Welcome in.

— Images generated on Midjourney.

  • Try Mindvalley for Free

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

Unlock Your Free Mindvalley Access Today

Begin your path to greatness with free quest lessons, guided meditations, special community events, and more Get started

Alexandra Tudor

Alexandra Tudor

' src=

You Might Also Like

Vishen, the founder of Mindvalley, on stage as a mentor

Stuck in Career Limbo? Learn 6 Tips on How to Find a Mentor Who’ll Help Skyrocket Your Success

A woman using her mobile phone to learn how to get into social media marketing

How to Get into Social Media Marketing with Simple Steps for Big Wins

Marisha Lakhiani, Mindvalley's Chief Growth Officer

10x Your Brand’s Reach With Game-Changing Social Media Strategy Secrets From Mindvalley’s CGO, Marisha Lakhiani

A man standing in the middle of Time Square in New York City and experiencing overstimulation

5 Ways to Heal From the Toxic Reality of Overstimulation

AI-generated image of a man using critical thinking while looking at the computer

How Critical Thinking Can Empower You to Do More and Succeed

AI-generated image of wings on a laptop

AI for Business Is a Game-Changer—Here’s Why

Get started.

  • Free Masterclasses
  • Coaching Certifications
  • Mindvalley Events
  • Vishen Lakhiani
  • Mindvalley Coach
  • The Mindvalley Show
  • Partnerships
  • Mindvalley For Business
  • In English 🇺🇸
  • En Español 🇪🇸

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

Fact-Checking: Our Process

Mindvalley is committed to providing reliable and trustworthy content. 

We rely heavily on evidence-based sources, including peer-reviewed studies and insights from recognized experts in various personal growth fields. Our goal is to keep the information we share both current and factual. 

The Mindvalley fact-checking guidelines are based on:

  • Content Foundation: Our articles build upon Mindvalley’s quest content, which are meticulously crafted and vetted by industry experts to ensure foundational credibility and reliability.
  • Research and Sources: Our team delves into credible research, ensuring every piece is grounded in facts and evidence, offering a holistic view on personal growth topics.
  • Continuous Updates: In the dynamic landscape of personal development, we are committed to keeping our content fresh. We often revisit and update our resources to stay abreast of the latest developments.
  • External Contributions: We welcome insights from external contributors who share our passion for personal transformation and consciousness elevation.
  • Product Recommendations and Affiliations: Recommendations come after thoughtful consideration and alignment with Mindvalley’s ethos, grounded in ethical choices.

To learn more about our dedication to reliable reporting, you can read our detailed editorial standards .

Daniel Wong

How to Focus When Studying: 20 Uncommonly Effective Tips

Updated on August 28, 2023 By Daniel Wong 129 Comments

Focus when studying

Do you find it hard to focus when you’re studying?

There are so many distractions these days: text messages, videos, email and social media.

Not to mention your own wandering mind.

Over the years, I’ve taught many thousands of students how to study more effectively.

One of the best ways to improve your grades is to learn how to focus better while you study.

I’ve come up with this list of 20 tips and techniques to help you concentrate while studying.

(To get 5 additional tips, download the free PDF below.)

Enter your email below to download a PDF summary of this article. The PDF contains all the tips found here, plus  5 exclusive bonus tips that you’ll only find in the PDF.

How to focus on studying.

You can learn how to focus better by trying some of these techniques during your next study session.

When you find one that works, make it a part of your routine every time you study.

1. Use your phone camera or webcam to record yourself studying

This tip may sound strange, but it works.

Set up your webcam or your phone camera to record a video of yourself studying.

The idea is to create accountability.

Instead of having a friend check on your progress, you have a camera watching everything you do.

Knowing that you are being watched will remind you of your objective.

Just when you’re about to get distracted, you’ll remember that everything you’re doing is being recorded.

It’s a useful reminder to yourself that you’ve made a commitment to study.

2. Use Focusmate

If you want to take it to the next level, use Focusmate instead.

With Focusmate, you make a pre-commitment to study for a 50-minute period at least one day in advance.

You then get paired with a real-life accountability partner.

You must turn on your webcam during the 50-minute session. This means that you and your study partner can see and hear each other during the study session.

If you leave your desk without giving an explanation, your study partner can report you, and vice versa.

Similarly, if you don’t turn up to your study session or if you are late, your study partner can report you.

Non-compliance results in the system marking you down. If your score falls below a certain level, the system will eventually lock you out.

But if you keep your commitments and complete your study session, the system will reward you with points.

3. If you don’t feel like starting work, take 1 minute to prepare yourself mentally

Timer

Sometimes you may not even feel like getting to work.

When this happens, take a minute to prepare yourself mentally.

Set a timer for a minute and tell yourself that you’ll start work when the timer goes off.

By doing this, you’ll be much more likely to get to work at the end of the minute.

This is called an “implementation intention”.

Any time you signal to yourself an intention to do something, it makes it easier to begin that task.

In this case, the implementation intention is to set a timer for a minute before starting a study session, if you feel like procrastinating.

So, if you find it hard to motivate yourself to start studying , take a minute and prepare yourself mentally.

By doing this, you will eliminate the resistance you were experiencing.

4. Before your first study session of the day, create a plan for the day

Make the plan as detailed as possible.

There’s a good reason for this. You must be clear about what you’re going to achieve during each study session.

For example, “study science” is not a sufficiently detailed study plan .

Here’s an example of a plan with enough detail: “Read pages 25 to 32 of the science textbook and create a summary diagram.”

When you break a task down into detailed components, you will have a better idea as to whether it’s achievable within the specified study period.

Another advantage of creating a detailed plan is that it becomes easier to assess your progress.

If you’re halfway through your study period and you’ve already completed half of what you planned to achieve, you’ll know you’re on track.

A key part of studying effectively is setting specific tasks to work on during each study session.

5. Write down exactly why you want to study hard

Another way to stay focused when studying is to be clear about why you want to study hard in the first place.

Write down the reasons you want to study hard.

Keep the list handy so you can remind yourself of these reasons when you find yourself losing concentration.

For example, you might write down:

  • “I want to become a more knowledgeable person.”
  • “I want to become a more self-driven person.”
  • “I want to cultivate the habit of always doing my best.”
  • “I want to make the most of my educational opportunities and learn as much as I can.”

Try to focus on process-oriented reasons rather than outcome-oriented reasons.

Because outcomes are often beyond your control, whereas the process is always within your control.

For example, the outcome of getting A’s for all your subjects is, in some ways, beyond your control. But studying for a total of at least 2 hours every day is a process that is within your control.

Here’s another reason to focus on the process rather than on the outcome.

The outcome could be something that may only come to pass in the distant future.

On the other hand, the process is something you engage in every day.

It’s far more effective to measure the achievement of the process than the achievement of the outcome.

6. Keep track of all the tasks you’ve completed

Keep track of tasks

Keep a record of all the tasks you complete each day.

This is important for two reasons.

Firstly, it allows you to monitor whether you are meeting the objectives set in your study plan.

If you are not meeting your objectives, you may have underestimated the time required for the tasks.

But if you are completing your tasks with time to spare, you may be able to set your targets higher.

Secondly, it’s important for your morale to see that you are making progress.

Studying is an activity where progress isn’t always easy to measure. But when you keep track of the tasks you have completed, you’ll be clearer about the progress you are making.

This will remind you that you have been productive, which will keep you motivated.

7. Put only the materials you need for your current task on your desk

The brain is able to process information more effectively in an uncluttered environment. This is what researchers have discovered .

As such, it’s a good idea to place on your desk only the items that you need to complete the task at hand. For example, this might consist of the assignment, a pen, a pencil, an eraser, and a calculator.

Make a list of what items you’ll need during your study session. Make sure you have only those items on your desk.

If your study area is disorganised, take a couple of minutes to tidy it up before you start work.

Having things neat and tidy has a calming effect on your mind and will help you to concentrate.

8. Get your brain ready by doing deep breathing exercises before each study session

Deep breathing exercises increase the ability of your mind to focus.

Researchers at Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience have studied the effect of breathing exercises on the body’s production of noradrenaline.

Noradrenaline functions as a neurotransmitter, which affects your concentration.

By regulating your breathing, you can optimise your levels of noradrenaline.

The researchers concluded that “there is a strong connection between breath-centred practices and a steadiness of mind”.

Here is a simple breathing exercise that will bring calm and focus to your mind before you study:

  • Close your eyes and take a deep breath in through your nose for 4 seconds.
  • When you feel that your lungs are full of air, hold your breath for 2 seconds.
  • Then slowly exhale through your nose for 4 seconds.

Do this exercise three times in succession before the start of every study session.

Try it out now to see how relaxed it makes you feel!

9. Don’t study in bed

Do not study in bed

Don’t try to do anything productive while lying or sitting in bed.

It’s important that the place where you study is not the same as the place where you sleep .

You won’t be able to study effectively in a place that you associate with relaxing or sleeping. In fact, this is my first suggestion when students ask me how to avoid sleepiness while studying .

Also, if you study in bed you will either be lying down or sitting cross-legged.

Neither of these positions is conducive for maximal focus. These positions may even result in neckaches and backaches.

What’s more, you may end up taking unintended naps!

So do your work at a proper study desk, every single time – this is a good habit that every student should cultivate !

10. Adjust the temperature of your studying environment

Make sure the temperature where you are studying is optimal.

Researchers at Cornell University found some interesting results when office temperatures were raised from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

Typing errors fell by 44% and output increased by about 150%.

Most research shows that the temperature most conducive for working and studying is in the range of 22°C to 25°C (72°F to 77°F).

So if it’s possible for you to adjust the temperature of your studying environment, keep it within this range.

11. Write down exactly what you’re working on at the moment

Every time you begin a study session, write down the task that you’ll be working on.

Do this on a rough sheet of paper and leave it on your study desk. This way, it will serve as a constant reminder about what you should be doing at the moment.

Just as you need a detailed plan for the day (Tip #4), you also need a detailed plan for each study session.

For example, if you write down “Do math assignment” for the current study session, it’s not specific enough.

“Do math assignment, questions 1 to 3 ” is more specific, so you’re more likely to stay on task.

12. Tell your family your study schedule for the day

Schedule

Post your study schedule on your bedroom door or on the fridge door in the kitchen.

This way, your family will know when they shouldn’t disturb you.

There’s another benefit to doing this. It also gives you a greater sense of accountability.

By making a pre-commitment to your family about when you’ll be studying, you’ll be more likely to stick to your study schedule.

All in all, this is a simple tip that will enable you to concentrate when you’re studying.

13. Put all of your digital devices in another room

This might seem like common sense, but I’m surprised how many of my teenage coaching clients were not doing this before I started working with them.

The old adage “out of sight, out of mind” applies here.

Leave your tablet and phone in another room and put them on silent mode.

Minimising temptations is one of the keys to being productive.

In addition, even if you feel tempted to check your phone, you probably won’t do it because the effort required to walk to the other room is too great.

14. Use these two apps to eliminate digital distractions

The first app I recommend is Forest .

With this app, your study session “becomes” a tree.

At the beginning of the session, you plant the tree and it starts to grow. But if you close the app, the tree dies – and nobody wants their precious tree to die!

By using the app, you’ll have a more productive study session.

Of course, having your phone next to you while you study could be a distraction (as mentioned in the previous tip).

This means that you’ll need to be careful not to use your phone for anything else.

The second app you can use to remove digital distractions is Freedom .

You can schedule this app to block other apps such as YouTube, games, and social media to keep you on track.

15. Listen to classical music while studying

Classical music

Listening to classical music is another way to help you focus when studying.

Dr. Masha Godkin , professor at Northcentral University, has researched the effects of music on our brains.

She found that classical music can take you from the beta brainwave state to the deeper alpha state, and even further to the theta state.

According to Dr. Godkin, the ability of music to stimulate both sides of the brain is why music helps you focus and also improves your memory .

Classical music with a fast tempo, such as Beethoven’s Für Elise, is effective in helping students to concentrate and remember more information.

16. If you don’t like classical music, listen to music/sounds from these two websites

If you don’t like classical music, try using Coffitivity instead.

Coffitivity simulates the sounds you would hear in a cafe to boost your creativity and brain function.

It’s designed based on research at the University of Chicago. This research shows that we think better and are more creative when there is a moderate level of background noise.

Alternatively, try listening to Brain.fm .

Brain.fm offers music engineered to help you achieve and sustain deep focus.

Personally, I use Brain.fm almost every day, and I’ve found it to be useful. By listening to Brain.fm, I’m able to stay focused for about 50% longer than before!

17. Use earphones or headphones while studying

If you intend to use Tips #15 or #16, then you’ll probably want to use earphones or headphones.

But even if you don’t want to listen to any type of music, using earphones or headphones is still a good way to improve your concentration while you study.

Because they insulate you from the outside world.

Using earphones or headphones is a signal to others that you are occupied.

This reduces the likelihood that others will interrupt your study session.

Wearing earphones or headphones will also remind yourself that you are in the middle of a study session.

18. Count how many study sessions you complete each day

Count study sessions

There’s a saying that “what gets measured, gets done”. This principle applies to study sessions too.

Keep track of how many study sessions you complete each day.

This way, you’ll become more intentional about getting to work.

Let’s say that you typically study in blocks of 30 minutes.

Before you begin your first study session of the day, you might decide that your goal for the day is to do at least 3 sessions of 30 minutes each.

As the day goes by, count how many sessions you’ve completed.

By keeping score in this way, you’ll focus on the process of doing the work. As a result, you’ll get more work done!

19. When you feel as if you’re about to get distracted, write it down

It’s inevitable: From time to time, you’ll get distracted during your study sessions. So you need a strategy for dealing with these distractions.

Here’s a technique that works well.

Let’s say that you’re reading your science notes when you get the urge to check your text messages.

Instead of giving in to the temptation, write down on a rough sheet of paper: “Check text messages.”

Once you’ve done that, you’ll find that it’s easier to go back to studying.

During your next break, you can go ahead and do what you’ve listed on that rough sheet of paper. In this case, you can check your text messages.

Why is this technique effective?

Because instead of simply trying to resist the urge, you get to “take action” by writing down the distraction. In doing so, you’re acknowledging the urge without giving in to it.

This leaves you free to go back to what you were doing before – studying.

20. Set an end time for when you’ll stop studying each day

Set end time for studying

This might not be the advice you were expecting.

After all, shouldn’t you be trying to study for as many hours as you can every day?

No, because the idea is to study smart, not just hard.

Of course, you need to work hard. But it’s also essential to lead a balanced life.

So set a strict deadline, such as 9:30 pm, and make sure that you don’t do any work after that time. The best time of the day to study is specific to every student, but it’s important that you decide when you’ll stop studying each day.

This will give you time to wind down before going to bed. This means that you’ll be able to get those 8 hours of sleep that you need to optimise your academic performance.

There’s another advantage to setting a specific end time for when you’ll stop studying each day.

Clearly defined limits help you to concentrate on what you’re doing right now.

You won’t get distracted as often, because you know that you won’t stay up late to catch up on the time you’ve wasted because of procrastination.

The result?

You’ll learn more in less time, and you’ll get good grades too.

Staying focused while studying is something that all students struggle with.

But there are many things you can do to help you concentrate and get into a flow state when studying .

As described in this article, there are plenty of ways to harness the power of your mind and make it work with you, not against you.

So take at least several study tips from this article and work them into your routine, starting today.

If you do this, you’ll find that your study sessions will become more productive and enjoyable!

Like this article? Please share it with your friends.

' src=

May 2, 2020 at 7:18 pm

Thank you very much for your effort, its really taking me higher and making me more focused on my study. God bless you.

' src=

May 2, 2020 at 9:15 pm

You’re welcome, and God bless you too.

' src=

May 5, 2020 at 3:30 pm

They are so amazing thank you

May 5, 2020 at 4:53 pm

I’m glad you like the article.

' src=

October 6, 2020 at 11:29 am

I never thought some of these would work on me since I have autism and aspergers spectrum so I easily get distracted.

' src=

December 22, 2023 at 12:30 pm

This is so amazing and helpful may the Lord bless the work of your hands

' src=

May 2, 2021 at 1:56 pm

Hi this is Sagar, I am preparing for a competitive exam but I am unable to the focused mindset. My mind won’t allow me to sir and study as it takes a lot of time to prepare for it. Could you please guide me regarding it ?

' src=

November 2, 2020 at 11:59 pm

Thank you so much sir. I am in class 10 but I am distracted now, so I’m reading this. I feel energetic now. If I am distracted again I will read this. Thanks a lot sir…

' src=

January 29, 2021 at 6:29 am

Hello Mr Wong, may I simply ask what it is you have studied at University and if you graduated.

' src=

October 22, 2022 at 12:07 am

Thanks To you I’ve been more focused and discipline and I can see the changes in progress thank you Sir.

' src=

May 7, 2020 at 2:04 am

These tips are so much fruitful for achieving something very big in life

May 7, 2020 at 8:04 am

You’re welcome.

' src=

August 5, 2020 at 10:12 pm

reallu unusual tips but when i play the results in my mind they fall in place perfectly……..will definitely check them out!!! thanks for such a wonderful article

' src=

April 27, 2021 at 11:09 pm

Really it’s more realistic….superb…tips

' src=

May 3, 2020 at 9:27 am

Thank you for giving us the tips.. Its very useful.. I hope everyone can study easier using these tips 🌈

May 3, 2020 at 10:32 am

You are welcome, and I hope everyone finds this article useful too!

' src=

May 3, 2020 at 12:04 pm

Thank you sir 😀

May 3, 2020 at 9:34 pm

You’re welcome!

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 7:47 am

Thnku so much for tips …I’ll try it definitely …👍

May 4, 2020 at 8:43 am

' src=

May 3, 2020 at 4:05 pm

This is truly the best article regarding effective study. Reading the article was itself a big motivation. This article covers every problem a student faces with the best solution provided. I am in loss of words in expressing my deep gratitude to the writer of this article. Thank You very much! There could be nothing better than this.

I appreciate your kind words!

' src=

November 26, 2020 at 8:09 pm

I am trying to follow all the tips that you’ve mentioned sir. They are so useful to me during quarantine.

' src=

January 10, 2021 at 4:07 pm

ya you are right

' src=

May 3, 2020 at 7:34 pm

I really procrastinate during quarantine….. I have been trying these tips for some days now. And they work. Thank you do much for the tips!!

May 3, 2020 at 9:35 pm

I’m glad to hear that the tips have worked for you!

' src=

May 3, 2020 at 11:04 pm

First of all, thx for allowing comments, for me, not allowing them is “questionable” and seens to become more and more common among the media these days… Second: many of these tips are really new to me. I think this article will help a lot, thank you very much! Blessings from Brazil!

You’re welcome! I’m glad to hear that.

' src=

May 6, 2020 at 7:24 pm

I m going to try this from today it is difficult.thanks Sir

May 6, 2020 at 9:50 pm

All the best!

' src=

May 3, 2020 at 11:51 pm

This tips are very usefull. Thank you

May 4, 2020 at 8:44 am

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 12:18 am

In recent days… Procrastinate become my habit……I don’t know how …..But it happened……..These tips are very useful for me….Thank you sir….

I hope this article helps you!

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 12:45 am

It was really amazing 😍 Helped me a lot! Thank u so much😊

That’s great to hear!

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 12:51 am

Thank you very very much Sir.. everyone will find easier to focus on their studies like me during these quarantine days. It’s really benificial. I hope you’ll help us by your precious tips in future too.

You are very welcome.

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 1:10 am

I was looking for something like this for my studies. Thank you for doing this great work. I hope every student gets more and more benefit from this article. Thank you once again & God bless you.

May 4, 2020 at 8:45 am

You’re welcome and God bless you.

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 1:17 am

Unbelievable methods ND it’s very easy to relate with these ,sir really feeling blessed to see your article . Best article i have everything read sir related to studies .thanks a lot , thankyou so much sir Wong .

With regards .

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 2:23 am

Really an appreciable work from which I got new , effective, amazing and rejuvenating tips it’s really fab this article motivated me alot and make me feel energetic to indulge in my studies Apps provided by you are very helpful Thank you so much

I’m really happy to hear that!

' src=

May 7, 2020 at 7:00 am

Am really very greatful with the to and am really going to put it into practice Thanks once again

May 7, 2020 at 8:05 am

' src=

Thank you so much for your time and effort that you put into writing this article for us! I’ll definitely be downloading Focusmate and Freedom. Enjoy your day 😊

May 4, 2020 at 8:46 am

You’re welcome — thank you, I did take many, many hours to put this article together!

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 2:50 am

Thanks for sharing how to focus to study.Now I can get organize to start my Goal.

It’s my pleasure!

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 3:20 am

Thank You Sir your advice is very useful

You’re more than welcome.

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 4:25 am

May 4, 2020 at 8:47 am

You are welcome.

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 4:38 am

What can I do to motivate myself to start studying without stopping. Sometimes I feel I’m never going to finish how can I eliminate that feelings?

May 4, 2020 at 8:48 am

I’m sorry to hear that, but I think you’ll find this article useful: https://www.daniel-wong.com/2018/04/23/get-motivated-to-study/

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 7:22 am

Thanks for the tips

You’re very welcome.

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 7:26 am

Let me try for my children and let you know. Thank you.

Ok sure, thank you.

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 10:56 am

Every lines were worth reading. It help me realised where I’ve gone wrong and how i can improve my study session more effectively. Thank you so much for putting up all these tips together. I hope I’ll be able to implement them !!

May 4, 2020 at 11:47 am

All the best as you implement the tips!

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 1:05 pm

During the current situation is very likely to procrastinate, but your words are giving us enough motivation to do something. Thanks a lot.

May 4, 2020 at 2:35 pm

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 12:48 pm

Do you have a sample study schedule to share? Just a rough guideline will be good too. Thanks

May 4, 2020 at 2:36 pm

For that, you can check out this article ( https://www.daniel-wong.com/2015/01/14/straight-a-student/ ) — hope it helps.

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 1:22 pm

Can you please write an article On how to increase the hunger to study means we should get addicted to it

May 4, 2020 at 2:37 pm

I think you’ll find this article useful ( https://www.daniel-wong.com/2018/04/23/get-motivated-to-study/ ).

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 2:05 pm

Thank you very much for your generous sharing. I share these tips with students I am counselling. Will check in with them after a week or so, and I am sure they will be able to concentrate better and be more focussed.

These tips are also very useful for me.

Warm regards

Thank you, Helen. I’m glad you found the tips useful.

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 2:07 pm

Thnx a lot.. I will try these tips and let you know the results

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 4:30 pm

Thank you for sharing.

May 4, 2020 at 5:54 pm

It’s my pleasure.

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 4:52 pm

Its a really a great deal struggling to stay focus…Thanks for the insights, am sure it will be productive

May 4, 2020 at 5:55 pm

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 4:59 pm

Thank you so much sir for the really helpful tips ! Keep putting more content like this ..it’s really working !

I’m happy to hear that!

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 9:11 pm

Wooow! You did a wonderful and a great job. May God bless you and give you more wisdom for you to provide us with more of these things. Thanks.

May 4, 2020 at 10:18 pm

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 10:36 pm

The tips are just great, thank you sir

May 5, 2020 at 8:02 am

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 10:59 pm

Thanks so much for this article, lately I have being so distracted and often procrastinate about my studying time during this lockdown. But I believe with this article I will do well in studying and passing my professional exam. Pls I will like to be getting.ur articles often, how do get to read them.

May 5, 2020 at 8:05 am

You’re welcome. You can download this free guide ( https://www.daniel-wong.com/students-improve-focus/ ) to sign up for my mailing list, then you’ll get updated whenever I publish new articles.

' src=

May 4, 2020 at 11:18 pm

It’s one of the most valuable article I have read on effective studying tips till now …and surely goin to try these! Great work done 👍

May 5, 2020 at 8:00 am

' src=

May 5, 2020 at 1:04 am

Such an amazing article ever seen ,by reading itself I’m motivated thks alot for sharing such an article the subtitles mentioned in the article is very accurate to overcome distractions. I’m soo interested to include these in my daily routine for procrastinate my distraction. Once again thank you soo much.

May 5, 2020 at 7:59 am

' src=

May 5, 2020 at 1:14 am

This article came just in time. I’ve been looking for ways to keep me from getting distracted, but all I could really find is how to get motivated. I’ll definitely be using some of these tips!

I hope the tips work for you!

May 5, 2020 at 1:17 am

Such an amazing article ever seen thks alot for sharing this by reading itself I’m motivated moreover the subtitles mentioned in the article is very accurate to overcome distractions .I’m soo interested to include these in my daily routine for procrastinate my distractions. Once again thank you soo much. Share more stuffs like this which may help lots & lots of students.🙂🙂

I hope you manage to implement the tips successfully!

' src=

May 5, 2020 at 1:21 am

Thank you So Much Sir.. Now I’m preparing for Medical Entrance Examination…… These Tips really helpfull Expecting More…. 😄🙏 Sir….. Please pray for me to Crack My Exam… 😊

May 5, 2020 at 7:58 am

All the best for your exam!

' src=

May 5, 2020 at 3:12 am

Thank you very much for your advice! Have nice evening!

Sure, it’s my pleasure.

' src=

May 5, 2020 at 6:58 am

Thanks for sharing the tips of study.i am really worth it when read this article

' src=

May 5, 2020 at 6:59 pm

Mr.Daniel Wong I truly appreciate your extremely helpful efforts to make studies more productive.. Thank you so much for your article…

May 5, 2020 at 9:27 pm

You’re welcome, Pranjal.

' src=

May 6, 2020 at 6:26 am

It’s such an article for starting a productive study session or being attentive to study or even turning attention back to study..

May 6, 2020 at 8:15 am

All the best as you put the tips into practice!

' src=

May 6, 2020 at 11:19 am

Useful tips. Thank u

May 6, 2020 at 1:09 pm

You are welcome. I’m glad you found the tips useful.

' src=

May 6, 2020 at 2:20 pm

Thank you so much for such great tips and for taking the time to write this. I’ve saved this article and will implement the tips!

May 6, 2020 at 2:41 pm

Glad to hear that!

' src=

May 6, 2020 at 2:59 pm

One of the best article, I had came across during these days. It is motivational too. Thank you Mr. Daniel Wong for sharing very useful tips for all…. which are not only for students but every person.

Thank you once again

May 6, 2020 at 4:04 pm

You’re welcome, and thank you for your kind words!

' src=

May 7, 2020 at 6:50 am

This is very interesting and it will help some us! I think it will make a difference in our study! Thank you very much and continue with this great job! God bless you!

You are welcome and God bless you too!

' src=

May 13, 2020 at 2:53 pm

Thank you very much for the exceptional creative tips! These can help the learners a lot!

May 13, 2020 at 2:59 pm

' src=

May 22, 2020 at 2:54 pm

Thank you! I am trying to follow your advice roughly (I did that even before actually reading this article). The only thing is, I don’t think I need to videotape myself. Instead I just use tracking programs. And of course I write my assignments, organize a comfortable learning space, and leave my smartphone in my living room. I rarely turn on music – only when I feel that I can concentrate with it, but most of the time it’s easier for me to learn something in silence.

' src=

August 22, 2020 at 3:45 am

thanks a lot sir…it helped me a lot

' src=

August 31, 2020 at 10:47 pm

I love your suggestions…These are better than other websites which only state some common facts…your suggestions are great…I was also looking forward to using Focusmate…But it seems that only people 17 years old and above can use it…I am in middle school and just turned 13…Can you please suggest one more website just like Focusmate please…

October 6, 2020 at 11:31 am

Thanks, it really helped with my distraction problems!

' src=

December 23, 2020 at 10:21 pm

I’m preparing for exams which are after a month. These tips are soo helpful, I’m soo glad to have found this page. Thank you sir!🙂

' src=

January 8, 2021 at 2:46 am

thank you, this article really helps me!!!

' src=

January 17, 2021 at 11:08 pm

why i can’t focus in study

' src=

January 28, 2021 at 4:45 am

dude I just made an account on brain.fm

Game changer.

They should give you a cut when I pay for the year after my 3 day trial.

Going to go hit up a 2 hour session to “cinematic music focus”.

Might pair this with the tree app for extra measure.

(My issue is wanting to stop and hop on netflix — hence the tree).

' src=

February 15, 2021 at 1:23 pm

Really, this article got me excited as though I already practiced it. The methods are well outlined and easily implemented. The fact that it involves exercise, sleep and diet makes this article like an all-round solution for improving my learning, maintaining a healthy body and alleviating depression; all with just one article.

Thanks Mr Wong, you’re a life saver.

' src=

April 7, 2021 at 7:47 am

Thanks sir for your advise and tips, it really helped me focus in my study more.

' src=

April 11, 2021 at 8:33 am

thanks your article for studying.

' src=

May 9, 2021 at 8:01 pm

I found this useful. I have bookmarked this page so that I can come back here when ever I want it. thankyou so much

' src=

July 5, 2021 at 1:49 pm

thank you so much helped me alot

' src=

September 26, 2021 at 11:26 am

Thank you so much. The 16th tip helped me so much

' src=

November 14, 2022 at 8:35 pm

i really found it very helpful. amazing tips.

' src=

July 5, 2023 at 9:33 am

How to focus on main point.

' src=

September 29, 2023 at 8:44 am

Thank you so much. Sometimes it takes multiple strategies. Switching up from day to day. Good of you to share!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

  • Monday Affirmations
  • I Am Affirmations
  • Affirmations For Success
  • Self-Confidence Positive Affirmations
  • Weight Loss Affirmations
  • Sleep Affirmations
  • Healing Affirmations
  • Affirmations For Anxiety
  • Abundance Affirmations
  • Positive Affirmations For Men
  • Birth Affirmations
  • Chakra Affirmations
  • Gratitude Affirmations
  • How to Meditate
  • Best Meditation Tools
  • Best Books on Meditation
  • What is Vipassana
  • What is Mantra Meditation?
  • Visualisation Meditation
  • Best Time to Meditate
  • Pranayama Breathing
  • Benefits of Yoga Nidra
  • Yoga Nidra for Sleep
  • Yoga Nidra Script
  • NSDR Protocols
  • Mindfulness
  • Sleep Meditation
  • Stress Relief
  • Morning Meditations
  • Making Friends With Your Mind
  • Meditation For Mothers
  • For Children
  • SleepEasy Stories
  • Root Chakra
  • Sacral Chakra
  • Solar Plexus Chakra
  • Heart Chakra
  • Throat Chakra
  • Third Eye Charka
  • Crown Chakra
  • Chakra Test
  • Root Charka Affirmations
  • Sacral Charka Affirmations
  • Solar Plexus Charka Affirmations
  • Heart Charka Affirmations
  • Throat Charka Affirmations
  • Third Eye Charka Affirmations
  • Crown Charka Affirmations
  • Chakra Yoga
  • Chakra Mantras
  • Chakra Mudras
  • Chakra Stones
  • Chakra Science
  • What Is My Aura Color?
  • Aura Photography
  • Orange Aura
  • Yellow Aura
  • Indigo Aura
  • Purple Aura
  • Turquoise Aura
  • History of Solfeggio Frequencies
  • Solfeggio Frequency Science
  • The Magician
  • The High Priestess
  • The Empress
  • The Emperor
  • The Chariot
  • Wheel of Fortune
  • The Hanged Man
  • The Judgement
  • Ace of Wands
  • Two of Wands
  • Three of Wands
  • Four of Wands
  • Five of Wands
  • Six of Wands
  • Seven of Wands
  • Eight of Wands
  • Nine of Wands
  • Ten of Wands
  • Page of Wands
  • Knight of Wands
  • Queen of Wands
  • King of Wands
  • Ace of Cups
  • Two of Cups
  • Three of Cups
  • Four of Cups
  • Five of Cups
  • Six of Cups
  • Seven of Cups
  • Eight of Cups
  • Nine of Cups
  • Ten of Cups
  • Page of Cups
  • Knight Of Cups
  • Queen of Cups
  • King of Cups
  • Ace of Swords
  • Two of Swords
  • Three of Swords
  • Four of Swords
  • Five of Swords
  • Six of Swords
  • Seven of Swords
  • Eight of Swords
  • Nine of Swords
  • Ten of Swords
  • Page of Swords
  • Knight of Swords
  • Queen of Swords
  • King of Swords
  • Ace of Pentacles
  • Two of Pentacles
  • Three of Pentacles
  • Four of Pentacles
  • Five of Pentacles
  • Six of Pentacles
  • Seven of Pentacles
  • Eight of Pentacles
  • Nine of Pentacles
  • Ten of Pentacles
  • Page of Pentacles
  • Knight of Pentacles
  • Queen of Pentacles
  • King of Pentacles
  • Tarot Birth Card Calculator
  • Psychic Source
  • California Psychics
  • Life Path Calculator
  • Life Path Number 1
  • Life Path Number 2
  • Life Path Number 3
  • Life Path Number 4
  • Life Path Number 5
  • Life Path Number 6
  • Life Path Number 7
  • Life Path Number 8
  • Life Path Number 9
  • Master Number 11
  • Master Number 22
  • Master Number 33
  • Soul Contracts
  • Zodiac Meditation Course
  • What Is a Spiritual Awakening

7 Great Tips to Learn How to Focus on Homework without Getting Distracted

  • July 1, 2021
  • Alexandra Uren

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

Table of Contents

Staying focused , especially on something as dull as homework, is rarely easy. There’s so many factors constantly fighting for our attention that even staying focused on an engaging task can be difficult!

Whether it’s the lure of social media or the thought of enjoying the sunshine with our friends, it can often feel as though we have no power when it comes to what our minds choose to focus on.

Focusing properly requires both the right mental attitude and the right environment, but even the very best procrastinators can develop a productive study routine.

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

Make Mindfulness Easy

Join over 50’000 people on their meditation journey.

  • Large Library of Classes Taught by Expert Teacher
  • One on One Teacher Support
  • Transformative Approach to Meditation
  • Request a Courses You Want to See
  • 60 Day Money Back Guarantee
  • Large Library of Classes
  • A New Approach to Meditation
  • Request a Courses

Dedicate a Few Minutes to Change

Many students find that getting home and putting on comfortable clothing can help them to focus, as this can help separate the school day from the evening.

It’s also important to allow yourself a break before you get started. You may find a small amount of physical activity or 30 minutes spent doing something completely unrelated to school can give you a little boost of energy and motivation before you start your homework.

Incorporating some ‘fun’ into your after-school study routine can help make the ordeal a little less painful!

How to Focus on Homework - Wear comfy clothes

Identify the Distractions in your Surroundings

Unless you do your homework in an empty room, it’s likely your home is chockablock full of distractions!

Whether it’s the buzz of the TV, the pop-up notifications on your phone, or the whir of the refrigerator daring you to get another snack, escaping distractions isn’t easy.

Identifying the distractions around you can help you to beat them, as often we don’t even realise that we are being distracted. Once you’ve identified what you find most distracting, remove it from your study space.

Whether you’re tackling math homework or struggling to write an essay, removing your primary distractions will help hugely.

Limit the Use of Technology to Find Focus

It goes without saying that electronic devices are one of the biggest distractions.

While Netflix, Instagram and Deliveroo can bring value to our lives (especially on rainy days!), they are not quite so helpful when you’re trying to work.

It’s best to limit the use of technology when you’re trying to focus. Put your smartphone on silent and tuck it away somewhere so that you’re not tempted to look at it.

If you really can’t do without it, tell yourself that once you’ve completed your first task, you’ll allow yourself 5 minutes to reply to any important messages.

How to Focus on Homework - put away devices

Create an Environment that Breeds Creativity and Productivity

The right environment is key. A busy room with siblings playing video games or the TV turned up is only going to distract you.

Your work environment should be quiet, organised and spacious. Let as much natural light in as possible and clear your desk so that you have space to work.

Some people like to listen to some background noise while they are working, be it the hum of the radio or focus music.

Others prefer complete silence. Take some time to determine which environment works for you.

It’s also important to take regular breaks. Taking 5-minute breaks between each task can help you to stay alert and fresh.

Make a Study Plan & Prioritise your Tasks

If you’ve ever had so much to do that it feels pointless even getting started, a study plan is key. Divide your homework assignments into sections, and prioritise them by due date.

A piece of math homework due in for the following morning should be completed first, while the essay due for the next week can be lower down on your to-do list.

Use a planner to write down all your assignments, as well as the date they are due. Break any large projects into smaller sections.

How to Focus on Homework - Make a study plan.

Avoid Heavy Meals

Eating a heavy meal before you start work can interfere with your focus. If you’re too full, you’ll start to feel drowsy and find it harder to concentrate. But being hungry can also cause your concentration to falter!

It’s important you feel satisfied and content , and lots of sugar is unlikely to help.

Snacking on nourishing food before you begin studying will help you concentrate for longer, and prevent you from getting distracted by your rumbling stomach!

Try snacking on blueberries, nuts, wholegrain bread, and ensure you drink plenty of water.

Try a Focused Based Meditation

Sometimes, try as we might, we simply can’t get into the right headspace for studying. Whether it’s due to anxiety , stress or simply boredom, a change of tack is often needed!

A focus-based meditation, like mantra , can help you clear your busy mind, prepare you for study time and helping you to concentrate for longer.

MindEasy has a huge range of mindfulness meditation courses to help clear your mind, ease anxiety and put you in a fresher, more productive mindset.

Whether you’re worrying about the future or feeling anxious about your day at school, a short meditation can help melt away your worries so that you’re better able to focus on the task in front of you.

Organise your Study Notes

A clear desk and well-organised notes is immensely satisfying, and it’s especially important to be organised if you’re preparing for tests and exams.

You’ll be able to access the notes you need faster, without wasting precious revision time looking for things!

Using folders, highlighters and calendars can help you to stay organised when your homework starts to get on top of you.

Group your notes together by subject, then by topic. Many students find colour-coding their notes can help with organisation.

  • Staying focused can be exceedingly difficult, especially with so many distractions surrounding us at any given moment.
  • It’s important to divide up the school day and your evening. Change out of your school uniform, and allow yourself a 30 minute break before you sit down to tackle your homework.
  • To start, identify any distractions (such as your smartphone!) and remove them from your desk.
  • Allow plenty of natural light into the room, and try to stay away from noisy and distracting siblings!
  • Make a study plan and prioritise what you’re going to do first. Allow yourself a short break once you’ve completed each task.
  • Snack on nourishing, healthy food such as blueberries, nuts and wholegrain bread.
  • A focus-based meditation can help you to clear your mind and get into the right mindset.
  • Staying organised is key; group your notes into each subject, and then each topic.

Angel Number 323 in a cosmic setting, embodying balance and spiritual harmony

323 Angel Number: The Secrets of Balance and Creativity

Angel Number 202 in a serene, natural setting, epitomizing spiritual harmony and growth.

202 Angel Number: The Blueprint for a Balanced, Spiritually Rich Life

Angel Number 9999 in a cosmic setting, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment.

9999 Angel Number: Deciphering the Message of Completion and Renewal

Angel Number 8888 in a cosmic balance, symbolizing spiritual and financial alignment.

8888 Angel Number: The Intersection of Spiritual and Financial Abundance

Angel Number 7777 in a celestial setting, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment and mastery.

7777 Angel Number: Decoding the Mysteries of Your Spiritual Journey

Angel Number 6666 in a cosmic setting, symbolizing spiritual enlightenment and balance.

6666 Angel Number: Understanding Its Role in Shaping Your Destiny

Discover is no longer accepting new student loan applications. Applications received on or before January 31, 2024, 11:59 pm CT will be processed as usual.

Discover Student Loans

  • Credit Cards
  • Personal Loans
  • 1-800-STUDENT
  • Search Search Discover When autocomplete results are available use up and down arrows to review and enter to select. Touch device users, explore by touch or with swipe gestures. .

Discover Student Loans secure account login

7 ways to avoid distractions and stay focused on studying

Updated: Mar 10, 2023

  • Manage your time more effectively by organizing assignments and deadlines in a planner.
  • Silencing your phone, breaking up your study time, and using headphones can help limit distractions.
  • Find your preferred work atmosphere and clear your desk to create a productive study environment.

College can be overwhelming when you're trying to maintain your grades, work a part-time job, and/or balance relationships. Most of us get distracted with push notifications, text messages, and phone calls. According to research conducted by Dr. Larry Rosen, professor emeritus at California State University, Dominguez Hills, "the typical student" is "distracted for at least 5 out of every 15 minutes they set aside to study," most often as a result of texting and social media use.

With so much going on, it can be very difficult to stay focused, but it's not impossible.

Here are seven tips to help enhance your productivity:

  • Get organized with a to-do list
  • Silence alerts and keep open Internet tabs to a minimum
  • Break big projects into small pieces
  • Use music and headphones to cut down noise
  • Find the best environment for efficient studying
  • Clean up and organize your work-space
  • Reward yourself for accomplishments

Make a schedule or to-do list

Juggling multiple projects and deadlines at school can be stressful. When you're working on one assignment, it's easy to forget about another. You can help organize your deadlines and manage your time more efficiently with a proper schedule. Figure out when you're most productive and set time aside for homework and activities. Keeping a planner or digital calendar will help you keep track of your classes and assignments. Paper planners are perfect for those who like writing to-do lists and scheduling appointments by hand. One study suggests that the simple act of writing things out helps boost your concentration and memory.

Turn off alerts

Constant notifications and text messages are every college student's enemy. Put your phone on silent or in "Do Not Disturb" mode, and close unnecessary tabs on your computer. If you need the Internet, keep one tab open. You can fight online distractions by blocking or hiding time-wasting websites and apps.

Break down your work into smaller tasks

Defeat procrastination by breaking a large project into small pieces. It's easier to motivate yourself to do something in smaller tasks rather than jumping into a huge one. If you're having a difficult time studying or getting work done, break up your time effectively. Try giving yourself a 10-minute break for every 45–50 minutes of work you do. Studies show that taking breaks can help you retain information and increase productivity.

Use headphones

If you're working in a noisy environment, use noise-canceling headphones. Listening to music through earbuds can also tune out distracting noises like people talking too loudly or construction work. Often, though, music with lyrics can be too distracting. Researchers suggest listening to classical or instrumental music to improve concentration.

Find the right place to do work

Some students work best with a little background noise, while others need complete quiet. Get to know your work style and the type of atmosphere you prefer. Are you the kind of person who works better in silence at the library? Or do you prefer the campus coffee shop with ambient noise? Try a few different spaces and see how each study session works out.

Clear your desk

Is your desk covered with stacks of papers? Is your computer monitor framed with layers of sticky notes? If so, it's time to get organized. A messy workspace can keep you from getting your work done. Go through your desk and keep only the essentials. A clean workspace can help reduce anxiety and make room for motivation.

Reward yourself

A little motivation can go a long way. Setting up a reward system is a good way to encourage yourself to do something. For example, if you finish an essay without any distractions, give yourself a reward like watching a video or taking a nap.

Facebook

How helpful was this content?

Thank you for your feedback

Recommended for you

9 ways to improve your college reading skills

9 ways to improve your college reading skills

How to be productive in college

How to be productive in college

Smart studying guide for college

Smart studying guide for college

More to explore.

Questions to ask during your next interview

5 min. read

Dec 28, 2023, questions to ask during your next interview.

Have an interview coming up? Discover Student Loans shares questions to ask in an interview to determine whether the company you're applying to is a good fit.

10 tips for finding college internships

7 min. read

Nov 16, 2023, 10 tips for finding college internships.

Wondering how to land an internship as a college student? Use these tips from Discover Student Loans to learn how to get an internship in college.

Dual degree versus double major

Nov 15, 2023

Dual degree versus double major.

Interested in multiple academic options? Learn about dual degrees versus double majors, their benefits, and which is right for you with advice from Discover Student Loans.

How to get accommodations in college for disabilities

3 min. read

Oct 17, 2023, how to get accommodations in college for disabilities.

Accommodations can help students with disabilities thrive in college. Use this guide from Discover Student Loans to learn how to get accommodations in college.

How to find a mentor in college

Oct 11, 2023

How to find a mentor in college.

A college mentor can help support you in your academic and career journey. Learn the benefits and how to find a mentor with advice from Discover Student Loans.

Tips for first-generation college students

6 min. read

Aug 30, 2023, tips for first-generation college students.

Learn what it means to be a first-generation college student. Discover Student Loans provides tips on how first-generation students can navigate college.

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

Aug 21, 2023

How to turn an internship into a job.

An internship is a great way to start your career. Learn how to make the most of your internship and turn it into a job with tips from Discover Student Loans.

How to study abroad

Aug 17, 2023

How to study abroad.

Interested in studying abroad? Discover Student Loans covers how to study abroad in college, types of programs, what to look for, and how to pay.

Find College Scholarships

Student loan calculators.

  • Learn more about adult coaching
  • Client Portal
  • Our Coaches
  • Why Choose Beyond BookSmart
  • Join Our Team
  • Our Clients
  • Elementary School Students
  • Middle School Students
  • High School Students
  • College Students
  • School Leaders and Teachers
  • What Is EF Coaching
  • What is Executive Dysfunction?
  • How We Work With Students
  • School-based Training
  • Building Life Skills
  • Academic Coaching vs. Tutoring
  • Back to School Coaching
  • Our Evidence
  • Our Research-Based Approach
  • Testimonials
  • Our Resources
  • Your Kid’s Gonna Be Okay
  • Our Podcast
  • Events & Webinars
  • Infographics & Guides
  • Case Studies
  • Guest Podcasts
  • Video Tips for Parents
  • Screen Use and Executive Functioning
  • Our Pricing
  • On-Demand Information Session

Contact us

Check out our variety of resources and tips on Executive Function support, ADHD, mental health, and more

Find your coaching level

Featured Posts

How much screen time is too much 4 expert screen use tips for parents.

From phones and iPads to laptops and TVs, screens are just about everywhere in o...

Continue Reading

How to improve working memory for kids: 5 expert tips.

In the world of Executive Function, working memory is a standout skill. Consider...

22 ADHD Coping Skills That You Need to Learn

In a world that rewards peak productivity and efficiency, living with ADHD can f...

  • Executive Functions (75)
  • Developing Executive Function Skills (65)
  • Improving Confidence (64)
  • Self-Management Skills (58)
  • Building better habits (56)
  • Executive Functioning for Adolescents (49)
  • How to help kids with ADHD (45)
  • Executive Functioning Strategies (44)
  • Time Management (44)
  • Learning Life Skills (43)
  • Improving Academic Performance (42)
  • Emotional Regulation Strategies (37)
  • Organizational Skills (37)
  • Resilience (37)
  • Planning and Prioritizing (36)
  • Motivation (35)
  • Focusing Attention (34)
  • anxiety (32)
  • mental health (32)
  • high school (29)
  • College readiness (28)
  • Academic Coaching for College Students (25)
  • Executive Functioning for Children (25)
  • college (25)
  • Benefits of Executive Function Coaching (24)
  • Middle School (19)
  • COVID-19 tips (18)
  • adults with executive function challenges (17)
  • Building a Great Relationship with Your Child (16)
  • Getting started (initiation) (16)
  • work-life balance (15)
  • Study Skills (13)
  • executive dysfunction (13)
  • procrastination (13)
  • Executive Function Apps (12)
  • Problem solving (12)
  • Self Advocacy (12)
  • elementary school (12)
  • task initiation (12)
  • Test Anxiety (11)
  • Perfectionism (9)
  • Test Preparation Tips (9)
  • freshman year at college (9)
  • Study Strategies (7)
  • social anxiety (7)
  • Evaluation of Executive Function (6)
  • Managing Online Distractions (6)
  • Resistant students (6)
  • making friends (6)
  • parenting (6)
  • How to Write a Research Paper (5)
  • Special Education (5)
  • Standardized Tests (5)
  • Reading Comprehension (4)
  • Online Academic Coaching (3)
  • homework battles (3)
  • Tutoring vs. Academic Coaching (1)
  • homework refusal (1)

Description

Sign Up Today To Get The Latest Updates From Beyond BookSmart In Your Inbox

A personalized process for sustainable success.

Read about our two levels of coaching, then take our quick assessment to see which level is likely to be the best fit for your student.

Take Our Assessment

Distracted by Technology: Focusing Attention on Homework

By Michael Howard

Mar 27, 2015

Does your child stay up all night doing homework ? Is he or she often texting or online while doing homework or studying? Is it possible for students to study and do their homework effectively while being distracted by technology? Is focusing attention on homework really all that important? It’s just homework, right? 

Welcome to the 21st century. A world filled with distractions every where you turn. How is it even possible to get homework done at all, let alone focus on doing homework without being distracted by a wide variety of electronic gadgets. Back in the not so distant past, you might have heard a kid saying "It doesn't matter if I have the TV on while I do my homework. It's not like I'm studying for a test." Today, it's a bit more complicated as students and their smart phones are inseparable. What might at first glance seem harmelss, doing homework or studying while watching TV, texting or checking social media can actually impair learning the material as well as lower test scores. Research has shown that it's one of the worst study habits a student can develop.

Students_studying_while_distracted_by_technology

Is There an App For That ?

With nearly everyone over the age of 10 having a cell phone and access to the internet these days, it's quite common to find students dividing their attention between texting, checking social media websites and surfing the internet while doing homework and studying for exams. Given that text messaging is the way many students communicate with each other, it's not easy for parents to explain to them that when it's time to do homework or study for an exam it's necessary to turn their phone off.

In all likelihood, they will argue about this as s tudents of all ages seem to have a misconception that they can pay attention to more than one thing at a time and that multitasking is an effective way to do homework or study for a test. How are you, their parent, going to respond? With research. In this blog post, w e reviewed the most up to date research that we could find on the subject of multitasking to give parents a better understanding of what it takes to be a successful student.

What Does Research Show About Studying While Distracted by Technology?

In a study conducted by Dr. Larry Rosen, a psychology professor at California State University - Dominguez Hills, students were observed studying for a 15 minute period where they were told to "study something important.” He found was that students generally started to lose focus after about three minutes. On average "students only spent about 65 percent of the observation period actually studying." That’s not exactly what you might consider “quality” studying time.

Dr. Rosen did another study where he surveyed high school students and asked them how often they switch from studying to doing something related to technology such as checking email, Facebook, texting or watching TV. Across all grade levels, 80% of students reported that they switch between studying and technology somewhat often to very often. Rosen calls this “Continuous Partial Attention,” meaning that most of the time, students are not focused on studying but rather are moving their attention back and forth between studying and various forms of technology. As you might expect, students who were the most distracted generally had the most windows open on their computers. Students who were less distracted had higher GPAs than students who switched back and forth fairly often and those who regularly check Facebook or text messages. Students who had strategies for studying also had higher GPAs according to Rosen’s findings.

Rosen explains, “Young people’s technology use is really about quelling anxiety...they don’t want to miss out or to be the last person to hear some news (or like or comment about a post online).” One of the major problems with texting and posting on Facebook and other social media sites while in class and/or studying, is that "they draw on the same mental resources—using language, parsing meaning—demanded by schoolwork." Ultimately, he concludes, if we want students to learn and perform at their best, smart phones and other online distractions must be managed.

Can Doing Homework While Distracted by Technology Affect Test Scores?

In another study of 8-18 year old students done by the Kaiser Family Foundation, nearly one third of the students surveyed confessed that when they were doing homework, they were also watching TV, texting, or listening to music. Victoria Rideout, the lead author of the study, warns parents about the dangers of media multitasking. This concern is distinct from worrying about how much kids are online or how much kids are media multitasking overall. “It’s multitasking while learning that has the biggest potential downside,”she says.

If a student is focused when doing their homework, they actually retain more of the information when it comes time to take a test on the same subject matter. It's like studying for the test little by little and absorbing the information in small chunks. The strategy of ‘chunking’ bits of information has been shown to be the most effective way to learn larger amounts of information and is a useful test prep strategy. If a student does her homework while multitasking, that will result in less information being retained and therefore  more time will be required for test preparation in order to achieve the same result. Compounding matters, if homework is done while multitasking in an introductory class, it will be more difficult to build on that “shaky foundation of knowledge” in the more advanced class the next semester.

Dr. David Meyer, a psychology professor at the University of Michigan observed that “under most conditions, the brain simply cannot do two complex tasks at the same time. Listening to a lecture while texting, or doing homework and being on Facebook—each of these tasks is very demanding, and each of them uses the same area of the brain, the prefrontal cortex." Most students incorrectly believe that they can perform two challenging tasks at the same time, according to Meyer. They may like to do it, they may even be addicted to it, but there’s no getting around the fact that it’s far better to focus on one task from start to finish.”

Quick Test for Students to Determine if Multitasking Impacts Performance

Here’s a fun, 3 minute test that you can do along with your kids to demonstrate if multitasking impacts performance (and the time it takes to complete homework).  Taking this simple test will allow students to see for themselves if multitasking could potentially be affecting their studying.

http://davecrenshaw.com/multitasking-example/

Top 3 Negative Outcomes of Studying While Being Distracted by Technology

According to an article by Annie Murphy Paul , research has shown that there are various negative outcomes that result from students multitasking while doing homework. Paul describes the top 3 negative outcomes. "First, the assignment takes longer to complete, because of the time spent on distracting activities and because, upon returning to the assignment, the student has to re-familiarize himself with the material.” Second, the mental fatigue caused by repeatedly dropping and picking up a mental thread leads to more mistakes. “Third, students’ subsequent memory of what they’re working on will be impaired if their attention is divided.” Paul explains, “The moment of encoding information is what matters most for retention, and dozens of laboratory studies have demonstrated that when our attention is divided during encoding, we remember that piece of information less well—or not at all."

Paul goes on to write, "Finally, researchers have found that media multitasking while learning is correlated with lower grades. In Rosen’s study (discussed above), students who used Facebook during the 15-minute observation period had lower grade-point averages than those who didn’t go on the site. In addition, two recent studies by Reynol Junco , a faculty associate at Harvard’s Berkan Center for Internet & Society , found that texting and using Facebook—in class and while doing homework—were negatively correlated with college students’ GPAs."

In conclusion, the evidence is overwhelming. Studying or doing homework while sitting in front of the TV, using social media or texting, makes it more difficult to learn and retain the information, increases the time it takes to complete homework, and may ultimately result in lower test scores.

Is your child attached to his smart phone or other electronic gadgets? If so, and grades are suffering, it might be time to take action. Are you ready to help your child  break the multitasking habit, learn to focus attention on homework and get on the path to academic success?

How Parents Can Help Children Manage Distractions While Studying

Teach your child to take technology breaks to separate doing homework from using technology. Here's the strategy: After your child has worked on his homework without interruption for 15 minutes, he is then allowed a technology break for 2-3 minutes to text and post to social media. When the break time is up, you instruct him to turn off his electronic devices for another 15 minutes of doing homework or studying. Students can extend their working time to 20, 30 or 45 minutes and perhaps extend their technology break time to 5-7 minutes. If your child complains that the technology break time is too short, you can let him know that when he is finished with his homework, he can use technology for as long as he wants (or whatever amount of time you say is ok).

Would you like to cut your child's homework time in half?

If so, click below to download our free guide to "Cutting Homework Time in Half."  You might also want to contact us to see if Executive Function coaching can help your child with focusing attention on homework .

Download Our Student Guide: How to Cut Homework Time in Half

Photo credit: Gitte Laasby

Attribution: A much more detailed discussion of some of these studies can be found in Slate Magazine (May 3, 2013) by Annie Murphy Paul , a fellow at the New America Foundation and author of the book Brilliant: The Science of How We Get Smarter.

MichaelHoward

Michael Howard is the Director of Marketing for Beyond BookSmart. He joined the company in 2012 and works remotely from Los Angeles. He is responsible for researching and developing marketing strategies, marketing materials, updating and optimizing the company website, social media, and search engine optimization. Michael earned his BA in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and his MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Lamar University .

About the Author

Michael howard.

Michael Howard is the Lead Marketing Strategist for Beyond BookSmart. He joined the company in 2012 and works remotely from Los Angeles. He is responsible for researching and developing marketing strategies, marketing materials, updating and optimizing the company website, social media, and search engine optimization. Michael is also involved with researching and recruiting potential candidates for employment. Michael earned his BA in Psychology from the University of Illinois, Champaign and his MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Lamar University.

Previous Post

Self-Advocacy: When NOT to Advocate for Your Child

An Educational Consultant's View on Admissions & Learning Disabilities

Latest Post

Related post, schedule a free discovery call.

Executive function coaching for students online throughout the U.S. and internationally.

Copyright © 2021 Beyond BookSmart, Inc.  ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Corporate Headquarters:

460 Hillside Ave., Suite C Needham, MA 02494

844-337-5455

  • Who We Help
  • How We Help
  • Privacy Policy

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Connect with us.

We will connect with you as soon as possible.

Illustration

  • Studying Tips
  • How to Focus on School Work & Stay Concentrated: 18 Tips to Follow
  • Speech Topics
  • Basics of Essay Writing
  • Essay Topics
  • Other Essays
  • Main Academic Essays
  • Research Paper Topics
  • Basics of Research Paper Writing
  • Miscellaneous
  • Chicago/ Turabian
  • Data & Statistics
  • Methodology
  • Admission Writing Tips
  • Admission Advice
  • Other Guides
  • Student Life
  • Understanding Plagiarism
  • Academic Writing Tips
  • Basics of Dissertation & Thesis Writing

Illustration

  • Essay Guides
  • Research Paper Guides
  • Formatting Guides
  • Basics of Research Process
  • Admission Guides
  • Dissertation & Thesis Guides

How to Focus on School Work & Stay Concentrated: 18 Tips to Follow

How to Focus on School Work

Table of contents

Illustration

Use our free Readability checker

Every new academic year has unique challenges that make students ask questions like, "Why can't I focus on school work?" It is more complicated than ever to maintain optimum concentration. Some people struggle because they are juggling family time, social activities, and media platforms. Nevertheless, you can focus on homework and finish your tasks efficiently by adopting interest-focusing strategies. These techniques will be helpful in overcoming diversions and concentrating on your schoolwork. You can achieve this by making simple schedule adjustments. In this blog post, we will discuss 18 tips on how to stay focused on homework in a clear and detailed manner. In case you have any questions or need expert assistance, contact StudyCrumb. Our academic writing team will be glad to solve any homework task you are dealing with. Say ‘ help with my assignment ’ and get top-notch assistance.

Why Can't I Focus on My Homework?

The question "why can't I focus on homework?" is popular among students, as numerous things can be distracting when doing assignments. Several hindrances like social networking sites, overthinking and watching digital content continuously demand concentration. As a result, you have little or no control over your thoughts. You must ensure your brain is dedicated to completing the task at hand. Focusing on an assignment may be challenging for many reasons. From my perspective, one of the reasons why I can't focus on school work is experiencing stress or exhaustion. Of course, being bored with the subject itself could also be the cause of why you are not concentrating. Many people find that figuring out the obstacle is the best way of understanding how to get focused on school work. Similarly, eating well and leading a healthy lifestyle is what helps you focus on homework.

Can't Focus on Homework? Find Out All Distracting Facts

Why can't I concentrate on my homework? Is paying attention to my assignments so crucial? Welcome to the new era where distractions are everywhere, and you can't concentrate on homework. How can you possibly finish your schoolwork and focus on it without being interrupted? Something minor, like social media browsing, may not seem harmful initially, but it can hinder studying. Students must learn how to stay focused while doing homework so that they can perform well. Many factors may contribute to these distractions and make you feel like you have limited power over your thoughts. These elements of distraction include the following:

  • Fear of failure.
  • Electronic devices.

Lack of interest is a common reason why students experience difficulties with concentration. If you aren’t interested in your subject and are looking for an expert to pay for homework , StudyCrumb is the best place to seek for academic help. Let us know the details and we will match you with the best writer in your field.

Tips for Focusing on Homework

You may struggle with focus occasionally as a freshman or a graduate student. One of the obstacles is the question of how to concentrate on homework. It can be challenging when you are thinking about something else. For example, your mind is constantly shifting focus onto your phone, your stomach is grumbling, or you want to lie down and nap. Start by learning how to focus on schoolwork in general by adopting technology as a core part of making you creative. However, technology is responsible for a never-ending stream of diversions that can weaken the will toward education. Check a few tips below on how to focus better on homework while avoiding interference.

1. Provide Quiet and Comfortable Environment

Students should learn how to focus on school at home as a core part of achieving academic success. Using a computer to do your homework staying in a noisy living room environment may affect concentration. To focus on school work, move to a quiet area where you can listen to helpful videos and read books. Make the space cozy, ensure it is also tidy, and maybe use inspirational banners in the room. You will probably have an easier understanding if you minimize distractions when studying. A quiet and conducive environment can optimize the quality of time spent on schoolwork and spare enough hours for free time. This is one of the crucial ways how to stop getting distracted from homework.

2. Prepare Snacks and Water Beforehand

This is another critical method and a sure way how to focus when doing homework. Here, you can learn how to focus on school by consuming water and healthy snacks, including low-fat yogurt, whole-grain bread, and dried fruits. It is not a good idea to eat a substantial meal prior to starting to work on the homework since it takes a lot of energy and time to digest the food. Thus, large meals can make you unproductive. Instead, preparing snacks and water beforehand is one of the easy-to-implement tips to help focus on homework. Water prevents dehydration and helps in digestion. Healthy snacks are a crucial element of a well-balanced diet, particularly when studying for long periods. Easy meals for college students play a critical role in curbing overeating. They also boost energy levels and metabolism and reduce hunger pangs, allowing you to concentrate better on your schoolwork.

3. Provide Silence to Concentrate on Homework

People often need silence when contemplating how to not get distracted while doing homework. Most students wonder why it is so hard to focus on school work in a loud environment. This is because it shifts your mind to what is happening around you rather than concentrating on your homework. Maintaining silence when focusing on school work enables you to absorb information better, remember it, and formulate new questions. You can assess the significance of alternative viewpoints and internalize different emotions and facts. Furthermore, silence allows you to practice deliberate and purposeful communication. It is also necessary to ensure effective use of the time allocated for schoolwork.

4. Organize Your Study Place

Taking an hour or more to arrange your space is helpful when figuring out how to focus on doing homework. If you study in your room, ensure the windows are open for the flow of fresh air. However, remain mindful of outside noise that may become even more distracting. One of the things to help you focus on homework is adequate illumination to help with reading and writing and clearing your mind. Both these preparations can be achieved using music and easy hygiene procedures. If you enjoy classical music, turn it on for the smooth sounds that will help you relax. Spend a few minutes removing dirty things on the desk, table, and study space, including your sitting position. The whole idea of organizing your study space is made to avoid time wastage. Furthermore, great organization boosts concentration and output and helps you avoid distraction.

5. Block Apps and Websites That Can Distract From Doing Homework

Another incredible tip on how to concentrate on school work is by blocking apps and websites that cause distraction. Focusing is undoubtedly tricky if you are completing homework on a laptop. Some apps are beneficial while others are not, especially when you think of what helps you focus on homework and ensure effective use of allocated time. For instance, Screen Time is an app that assists you in avoiding frequent distractions. Avoid apps like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube to focus on homework and close any notifications like text messages not to get distracted. By blocking these apps, you will concentrate more on your studies and enhance your workflow. You can run a few applications that support your efficiency in handling schoolwork.

6. Avoid Multitasking to Be Focused on School Work

If you are unsure about how to focus on homework at home, you are in the right place. You should identify different methods so you can concentrate thoughts on schoolwork and optimize the learning process. Focusing on one assignment at a time is another way how to stay focused on school work. Multitasking will reduce your productivity. Avoid watching a video lesson on science while completing your math assignment because you might be losing more than you gain. Before beginning a new task, finish the previous one and concentrate on homework. This enables you to take part in the activity more deeply and stay attentive. In addition, you will retain more knowledge and have less trouble applying the information in the real world if you can focus more on your schoolwork.

7. Choose the Best Time for Homework

As the saying goes, to everything, there is a time and place , and with homework, you need to set the appropriate time and place to work it out. You need to choose designated periods to make yourself focus on homework. Attentiveness to schoolwork may be difficult if the event is not scheduled correctly. Therefore, choosing the most appropriate time to focus on your homework without many distractions is key. The correct perspective in handling assignment deadlines would entail the selection of a timeframe that is best for you. In other words, the time allocation should be uneventful yet scheduled at an appropriate time for maximum efficiency. This means you will consider periods when your mind is fresh and there are minimal distractions to remain productive while focusing on schoolwork.

8. Put Aside All Gadgets

When researching how to do homework without getting distracted, gadgets are considered to be some of the most distracting elements that you can have. Having gadgets around, such as phones, leaves you vulnerable to shifting attention. This entails calls and messages from friends in social media or online interactions. Although gadgets are essential in helping you study, switch them off in order to not get distracted when doing homework. Accordingly, managing screen time must be a central topic when developing ways how to focus on your homework. You will find that without distractions, you can easily set attention to the tasks that matter. Putting off your gadgets often results in higher efficiency and productivity, especially when handling academic tasks.

9. Prioritize Your Homework

As with many other things, priorities are central when getting work done. Schoolwork at home can easily fall into events that are of lower importance. However, eliminating this perspective may be critical when considering how to focus while doing homework. Prioritization is the most effective when planning and scheduling events. Tasks like doing homework should, in this case, be set as the most important and high up on the schedule compared to other events. More time should also be allocated to more urgent events. This allows you to organize your thoughts and ideas while doing your homework without feeling rushed.

10. Plan Your Schedule to Be Concentrated

Students often wonder how to focus more on school work, especially when dealing with time-critical events or when they have a lot on their plate. I have, in several instances, successfully used scheduling when strategizing how to make myself focus on homework. The trick lies in developing a schedule that works for you. The plan, in this case, should operate around all your daily events and take advantage of the free periods. You can therefore complete the tasks that are typically overlooked. Keeping time will be easier with the correct approach to scheduling. You will also make more time for the things that previously fell between the cracks and remain undone.

11. Divide Your Task Into Parts

Undertaking large volumes of work that cannot be well-tracked may seem overwhelming. Being compelled can then make it hard to stay focused. In my experience, the practice of dividing work into parts has been able to help me focus on homework. Breaking down large volumes of tasks enables you to easily keep track of the progress you make and avoid the feeling of being overwhelmed. You can use this as a tip when figuring out what to do when you can't focus on homework. Also, scheduling periodic breaks after completing a stressful section will be helpful.

12. Make To-Do Lists to Focus on Homework

Lists are a common way of tracking the important events that should be done throughout the day. They can also be helpful when thinking of how to stay focused on homework in college or even in your personal engagements. You may wonder how to stop getting distracted while doing homework using lists, and here is how. Listing all the day's tasks in order of how you would like to undertake them keeps you focused on your goals. The order will help you tackle things individually and shape your focus on the next item you need to work on. Setting goals for each step can also lead to exceptional results in completing homework and minimizing distractions.

13. Use Tools and Apps for Studying

As a student, you must leverage technologies and all available ways to focus on homework. The advantage of studying in the modern schooling environment is that you have a wide array of tools and resources. For instance, mobile apps and games can help you meet the objectivity tasks you may require. They will also help you to get useful time management skills . Many free apps and tools help you to focus on school work at home. For example, scheduling apps offer time management and planning resources that help you get that extra edge in keeping focused. These tools provide alerts to inform you of your tasks and even help manage your progress. In addition to scheduling applications, using PDF annotating apps and tools can be very helpful for studying. Apps like PDF Reader Pro allow you to open, edit, annotate and share PDFs with ease. You can highlight important textbook passages, add notes and bookmark pages to better focus on your homework. 

14. Set a Timer While Doing Homework

Using timers is a great option when you are not able to concentrate on homework. Students who can't focus on school work may benefit from using them to manage their engagement in different daily activities. Timers are mainly instrumental in keeping your attention focused on a specific goal. Productivity timers, for instance, may help keep your focus by holding you accountable for every minute that passes. You know you need to finish a set number of tasks based on the time spent on these tasks. This can be beneficial if you are prone to procrastination or are too busy with other things. Older students wondering how to stay focused on homework in college or tertiary institutions may also use timers to manage their efficiencies. Timing yourself can also help keep pressure on the mind and focus your thoughts. Therefore, make timed tasks a habit.

15. Come Up With Motivation

Motivation greatly helps when you wonder what to do when you can't focus on homework. Sometimes, simple inspiration and goal realignment may be all you need to restore your attention. Motivation comes in many forms and shapes. For instance, using reward systems or adjusting your school goals with personal interests may go a long way. Other options include joining group work discussions that match these objectives and engaging in an exercise that may help keep you motivated. So next time you think of how to focus on schoolwork at home, consider what benefits you may get from developing motivation for your goals.

16. Make Breaks for Better Concentration on Homework

Concentration is part of what can help me focus on homework, and there is a chance you may be severely affected by fatigue. Exhaustion is to be expected, especially when handling challenging course materials. I mostly find that I can't focus on my homework when I am tired. It becomes complicated to focus on homework without getting distracted when exhausted, and the solution I have found so far is taking a break. This helps rejuvenate the mind and generate new energy. Scheduling periodic intervals minimizes stress and allows you to refocus your thoughts. Nevertheless, be mindful and do not take a break that extends for too long.

17. Change Study Spot

You may be curious how a change in the environment affects your ability to concentrate or how to make yourself focus on homework with so many distractions at home. Fortunately, there are standard solutions to these questions as well. If you are wondering how to focus on school work at home, you should move to a different study spot. In a spacious house, you can find a quiet, designated space to set up and do your homework. Having a fixed location with the right environment for concentration may increase your creativity significantly. In smaller houses, getting a place that is secluded from direct distractions may also help minimize the impact these distractions have on your attentiveness.

18. Listen to Music

Changing approach to studying may also be needed to stay focused on homework. Listening to your favorite music can be a great option. This is particularly true if you have considered most of the options shared above and are still wondering how to do your homework without getting distracted. Music to study to is a great way to keep you focused, especially when using headphones to prevent external noise. It is exceptionally effective in stress management. There is a higher chance you may get distracted when doing challenging homework assignments. Music is one of the things that can be used to clear the mind when you are curious about what to do if you can't focus on homework. Symphonies and upbeat music, for instance, help manage stress by boosting the thinking process. It is, however, important to avoid listening to songs playing in the background with lyrics that may be distracting. Instrumentals are, in most cases, the more practical option.

Final Thoughts on How to Focus on Schoolwork

Beyond education, learning to concentrate on your schoolwork might also help you in other pursuits in your life. Among the best abilities for fostering your development is concentration. Various tips are practical when you spend all day and night working on school or college papers and cannot concentrate on your assignment. Stick to these 18 strategies if you want to try and work out how to focus on homework without getting distracted. We have all been through the "how do I focus on my homework" moment occasionally. However, listening to music, organizing your study place, and setting a timer will help you stay focused when doing homework. Make it a routine to read and utilize these tips; you will not regret a single day in your life.

Illustration

Forget about piles of books and endless assignments! Turn to our professional writing service and buy assignment from an academic pro who can complete any task for you.

FAQ About Focusing on Homework at Home

1. why can't i focus on homework for more than 10 minutes.

Gaining strict concentration may be one of the most challenging issues affecting students. Many learners find that they can't focus on homework even when they want. Distractions, exhaustion, and a general lack of interest in the subject are to blame for their lack of focus. In some cases, stress and other emotional distractions may affect a person's ability to focus.

2. How can I train my brain to concentrate on homework?

Fortunately, this problem can be solved by simple discipline routines and habits that enable students to concentrate on homework. Working past the undisciplined mind can be achieved by simply following a strict routine. Scheduling tasks and timelines are some of the ways that can be used to keep your mind set on targeted goals. Turning off all distractions, such as the television and background music, may also help improve concentration levels.

3. How to get my child to focus on homework?

Parents or guardians are often a great source in helping their children stay focused when doing homework. Creating an enabling environment and assisting in doing homework are ways that parents can improve their child's concentration and remain involved in their learning process. Other options, such as helping develop workable schedules for children, are also plausible ways that parents can use.

rachel_hill_42c3662f7e.jpg

Rachel R. Hill is a real educational devotee. She prides in writing exceptional general guides while listening to every need of students.

You may also like

thumbnail@2x.png

logo (1)

Tips for Online Students , Tips for Students

How to Not Get Distracted

How-to-Not-Get-Distracted-Smart-Ways-to-Stay-Productive

Ever wonder why you can’t say focused on important tasks? It could be that you have a big deadline approaching, yet you can’t sit still. Perhaps you’re trying to finish a paper for school, but you keep checking your phone. Distractions are everywhere and increasingly so. That’s why knowing how not to get distracted can make all the difference in your productivity.

Being able to focus is different for everyone. Some people work better at night, and others work better in the day. Besides these variations between people and focus, you can train yourself to avoid distractions. Here’s how to get started on mastering this discipline.

First, Cut Yourself Some Slack

1. avoiding distraction is hard:.

If staying focused was easy, everyone would do it. Distractions affect all people in a myriad of ways.

2. You weren’t taught:

It’s interesting to think about how we go to school from a young age, but we’re never formally taught how to learn. That’s why distraction management doesn’t always come easily.

3. You’re in control:

You have to take ownership and agency of yourself. You are the only person who can ultimately choose whether or not to be distracted. These steps will help you achieve better focus, but it’s up to you to practice them.

Photo by  Glenn Carstens-Peters  on  Unsplash

Practical tips to stay productive, 1. keep your eyes on the prize:.

Every person has their own personal reasons for why they do certain things. When you have a goal in mind, it’s this motivation that can keep you going when times get tough. When you set out to accomplish something, write down why you are doing it. That way, when it comes to potential distractions, you can look back and remind yourself what you want to achieve.

2. Focus on Specific Tasks:

To-do lists can become long and overwhelming. You may have more than a dozen things you need to get done. Try to narrow down the list and prioritize based on deadlines and importance. That way, you can limit your list to 2-3 things a day so you are more likely to get them accomplished. Another tip: Look at your list and see if accomplishing any task will make getting another one done easier. Do that task first so you can reap the benefits of its domino effect.

3. Get Them Done ASAP:

The less you procrastinate, the more you can get done. This is obvious, but what’s not as obvious is how much small decisions can drain your energy. If you are able to, try accomplishing tasks as soon as you can so that the other trivial elements of your day don’t get in the way.

4. Break it Down:

Many goals take time to accomplish. For example, writing a book starts with writing a page. Earning your degree starts with finishing a course. When you break your goals down into the steps they take, you can chip away at completing them without losing site or motivation.

5. Visualize the Work:

Your mind is a powerful tool that has the ability to create your reality. Before you actually start doing any work, you can imagine yourself doing the work. This starts with the smallest aspect, like imagining yourself writing notes and opening your laptop to read material. In this way, rather than focusing on all the reasons that you don’t want to do something, you’re setting yourself up to just go and do it.

6. Control Your Inner Talk:

You’re often your own worst enemy when it comes to doing what you have to do. This is because your inner self talk can be distracting. However, practice and accountability can help here. For example, if you set up a dedicated place to do the same work every time, then the moment you position yourself there, you’ll be more likely to focus on why you are there.

7. Remove External Distractions:

This plays on the notion of “out of sight, out of mind.” If you turn off your WiFi or remove your phone, then you can’t be distracted by the internet or talking to friends instead of working. Keep in mind that when you set up your workspace (especially if you’re an online student ), then only bring the essentials for the task.

8. Not Sure? Skip:

Some people may know to apply this approach to test-taking, but not to work. If you come across something you don’t know, don’t worry. Leave it blank and complete everything that you can do. Then come back to what you don’t know. Otherwise, not knowing something can set you on a spiral of distractions until you find the answer.

9. Practice Focus:

Attention is a practice and discipline. You can achieve it by utilizing techniques and practicing meditation and mindfulness. One technique you can try is the Pomodoro Technique — set a timer for 25 minutes and work on your task without distraction. Then, take a 5-minute break that is also timed. Then, go back to focused work for another 25 minutes. That way, you can work in highly focused sprints.

10. Momentum is Key:

Achieving goals not only requires small amount of intense focus, but you also have to remain consistent and not fall off track. You can do this on a small scale to keep momentum. For example, if you want to run a marathon, you don’t run an extended amount of miles daily, but you do something everyday to help you towards the goal — even if it means just going for a walk.

Why Am I So Distracted?

Before we get into why you feel distracted, let’s go back to the beginning of this article. Don’t be so hard on yourself! Assess your distractions without judgment to try to find the root cause and solve for that first.

Here are some reasons why you may be overly distracted when you try to get the work you need to get done:

1. Overwhelmed:

We exist in an interesting time. We are overflooded by information all the time because of technology and connectedness. While it may not seem obvious, everything we take in requires energy to process. Whether it’s clear or subconscious, we exist in a constant stream of being overwhelmed (that is, unless we practice technological disconnection and mindfulness).

2. Attention is Limited:

Our attention is a resource that we often take for granted. All the overwhelm mentioned above chips away at our stockpile of attention that we have to give.

3. Too Much Activity:

Even if you’re not running around physically to get things done, your mind is actively working to process information and assess your current environment. If you don’t learn how to control your thoughts and apply focus purposely, then you will constantly be allowing thoughts to dominate your stream of attention.

Photo by  Anthony Tran  on  Unsplash

How to overcome distraction.

Now that you know the reasons why you may become distracted, let’s look at some actual ways in which you can stay focused with these applicable practices:

1. Identify Why You’re Distracted:

You know yourself best. Distractions may not only be external. Perhaps you’re dealing with some internal and emotional distress. Try to clear your head before you judge yourself harshly.

2. Preparation is for Winners:

Become a planner. For every task you want to achieve, there’s a path you will choose to take. Write it down and give yourself deadlines so you can continue moving forward.

3. Turn Off WiFi:

The internet is full of distractions. Make the active choice to turn it off when you’re working on something that doesn’t require it. If you are studying online and need access, then use a website blocking tool such as Freedom .

4. Take a Break:

It’s natural to need to recharge. Allow yourself to take breaks . Whether they are to take a walk for some fresh air, meditate, read for fun, write to a friend, or whatever else clears your mind — it’s acceptable and necessary!

5. Breathing Techniques:

Especially in times when you feel overwhelmed, you can bring yourself back to the present moment by focusing on your breath. There are a variety of breathing techniques to master.

6. Alone Time:

Both digitally and in real life, we live in a hyper-connected reality. Give yourself time to just be alone and recharge. This is a part of self-care.

7. Get Enough Sleep:

People can work on different amounts of sleep, but for the most part, it’s recommended to get at least 7-8 hours each night. During your sleep, your brain is able to make sense of its day and categorize events from your subconscious. For proper physical and mental health, sleep is a requirement.

8. Write it Down:

When you have a lot to do, you’ll probably repeat it over and over in your head. The first step to alleviate the burden of cyclical thoughts and reminders is to write a to-do list down. That way, you’ll be less likely to forget a task. At the same time, you can stop replaying the list in your head.

9. Set a Deadline:

If you aren’t given a deadline for a task from work or school, then try to set up your own realistic deadlines. Having projects that are open-ended mean they can stay open-ended forever.

10. Wake Up Early:

Whether you get straight to work or not, waking up early gives you more hours in your day to do whatever you want. By simply waking up even 30 minutes earlier than normal, you can start you day by meditating, or just writing down your goals. Whatever you choose to do with this time will benefit you (unless you fill it with more unproductive distractions, of course).

11. Track How You Spend Your Time:

If you want to actually figure out what you spend your time doing, you can track this with apps. That way you can monitor what you do and make changes to align with your goals. Then you can continue monitoring to see if your changes are creating positive effects.

More Useful Tips and Tricks

Here are a few more things you can try to stay better focused when you need to be:

  • Practice self-care
  • Journal and write your worries down
  • Try to exercise
  • Use a scheduler/calendar

The Takeaway

Life is so dynamic that you are bound to feel distracted every now and then. As a college student or an active person trying to achieve their goals, staying focused is an invaluable skill. Asking yourself “Why do I get distracted so easily?” is the first step in learning how not to get distracted.

Consider the aforementioned tips and tricks and start implementing the ones that speak most to you!

Related Articles

Privacy overview.

Young girl studying on bed.

Curious Kids: how can we concentrate on study without getting distracted?

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

Professor, Faculty of Education and Arts, Australian Catholic University

Disclosure statement

John Munro has in the past participated in ARC-funded research

Australian Catholic University provides funding as a member of The Conversation AU.

View all partners

How can we concentrate on a particular thing (like studies) without getting distracted? Melvina, aged 14

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

Thanks for this great question, Melvina!

Many students are probably wondering the same thing as end-of-year assessments approach.

To concentrate best we need to resist distractions. To do this, it helps if you know what concentration looks like.

What is concentration?

When you concentrate, you direct or focus your thinking. Imagine your focus is like a torch beam.

This torch beam needs energy, which comes from your concentration. So we can think of concentration as the “mental energy” or “thinking petrol” your brain needs to focus.

Read more: Is homework worthwhile?

We know it’s important to concentrate to get the best results from a project or task. But, with distractions everywhere, we also know how hard it can be.

So what distractions should we look out for?

Deal with physical distractions

These are distractions in your environment. It’s a good idea to take steps to reduce them.

First, try to adjust the amount of light and noise to a level that works best for you.

This might mean getting rid of excessive background noise, or quietening it to a level that helps you concentrate. The level that works best for you depends on your personality, the type of noise and how demanding the task you’re concentrating on is .

When it comes to lighting, for most people, brighter white lighting helps concentration . But, as with background sound, there’s no single rule that works for everyone .

Read more: Curious Kids: is it OK to listen to music while studying?

It can also help to keep your study space tidy and remove any items that could distract you , like your mobile phone.

Teenager covering ears while studying

Thoughts and feelings can be pretty distracting too

If you find yourself thinking of things you’d rather be doing than the task at hand, take a moment to consider what you’ll do after you’ve completed the task, and how much more you’ll enjoy them because of what you’ve achieved.

Read more: Curious Kids: Why does English have so many different spelling rules?

Feelings can be pretty distracting too.

If you feel worried about how people will respond to what you produce, like an essay or presentation, you might be hesitant to get started. To manage this, try noting how a task or topic fits with what you already know, or remind yourself of a time you got through a similar task.

There are a few things you can do before, during and after a task to help too.

How to manage distractions

When you start a study session, it’s useful to:

decide what you want to get from the activity. What will the outcome look like?

prepare by collecting all the materials you need for a task

set yourself up so you can see your computer screen or books without straining your body

remember what you already know about the topic or the task

plan the steps you could take to complete the task.

Teenage boy studying

As you work through the topic or the task, it’s helpful check your progress. Note what you’ve achieved so far. Are you moving towards your goal or do you need to change direction?

This helps you deal with distractions while you’re learning.

How to beat distractions

Towards the end of a task, review what you’ve learnt and store it in memory. This allows you to get around distractions that occurred during the learning.

Give this a go:

say what you know now that you didn’t know earlier

say how your new understanding has changed or added to what you knew

feel positive about what you know now. Congratulate yourself on what your brain has done. The positive feeling helps you remember it better in the future

imagine yourself remembering and using the main ideas in the future.

When you store your new understanding like this, you can use it more easily in the future to concentrate and to get around distractions.

Hello, curious kids! Have you got a question you’d like an expert to answer? Ask an adult to send your question to [email protected]

  • Curious Kids
  • Distractions
  • Year 12 exams
  • end of year exams

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

General Manager | La Trobe University, Sydney Campus

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

Administrative Officer

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

Lecturer / Senior Lecturer - Business Law & Taxation

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

Newsletters and Social Media Manager

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

Industrial Officer (Senior)

logo JustDoMyHomework.com

How to Focus on Homework

  • How to Focus on Homework? 12 Practical Tips without Getting Distracted

How to Focus on Homework? 12 Practical Tips without Getting Distracted

1. Make You Feel Comfortable

2. create a study plan, 3. prepare your space, 4. prioritize your tasks, 5. use homework paper examples, 6. ask people around to help.

  • 7. Find Creative Environment

8. Get Rid of Harmful Distractions

9. leave some distractions out there for fun, 10. prepare a reward for yourself, 11. listen to calm music, 12. use special learning tools & apps, why can’t i focus on homework, how to focus on homework if i like to procrastinate.

  • Students Also Ask
  • 1. Does physical condition affect my ability to focus on homework?
  • 2. Is it only me who cannot focus on homework?
  • 3. I can’t focus on homework in any way. What to do?
  • 4. Should I focus on homework without pauses?

Each day you return home after school and classes, tired and annoyed. And instead of having a rest, you have to start working on your studies. It is tough to focus on homework when you want to join mates or spend some time on the net.  "So how to stay focused to do my homework ?" you would ask. We have done new research on this question and have found some valuable information about studying to give answers. Hopefully, it will help you stay focused on homework in any environment and turn you into a productive student with the best grades! 

How to focus on homework and do homework and how to get done with homework fast ? Let us start small. We have analyzed and sorted our best findings related to concentration, and here are quick tips and tricks for those who want to stay focused on their homework:

  • Find motivation for yourself, e.g., take some rest after completing a paragraph when writing an essay .
  • Maintain a routine schedule at home. This will make you more organized and able to focus on homework and complete any task.
  • Put away any distractions. Switch off the TV and other media, close doors, or put on headphones if roommates have loud conversations that lure your attention away.
  • Have some healthy snacks by your side in case you are hungry / want something tasty to eat.
  • Keep your desk in order. It puts your thoughts in order as well, helping to focus on homework .
  • Prioritize tasks. It might be best to accomplish quicker ones first to be motivated by your progress with each completed task.

In case you are constantly struggling to focus on homework, just need urgent help, why not contact professional writers who would do it for you? For study purposes, it is always helpful to get information from people who managed to solve this difficulty and achieve top grades. These pieces of advice will help you learn how to focus on your homework even when you’re tired, unmotivated, depressed, or sick.

Get dressed in something you adore to wear . Outerwear will only give you a sense of still being at school in front of your teachers & classmates so that you will be thinking about all the past day’s school events all the time.  Many students ignore this rule and remain in the same clothes when trying to focus on homework. You need to have unique home clothing you wear during the day and the one you put on at night.

Any successful time management is impossible without proper planning. Students always have big problems with time management . It is the most expensive resource in the world, so try to play with it correctly.  Find different homework planners and timers online using your computer, phone, or another device with internet access. It will take little effort to download and set up the chosen homework software, but it will help to keep focused by having a time map in your mind. Read more good tips on how to manage your time.

If you study in your room, open the window to breathe some fresh air. Make sure the lighting is proper enough for the homework preparation. Set the music on if you prefer classical composers. Other tracks won’t work as they are likely to disrupt your attention. Spend some minutes on solving one more problem, which is a dirty workplace. You need only your computer, textbook, and study notes. Leave distractions outside your room . Let’s say you can take them to your parents or living room, and then you can easily focus on homework assignments.

Another essential skill in completing your homework is the ability to prioritize your tasks. Arrange your tasks given by a teacher in order of importance and level of difficulty . Try to complete the most challenging tasks first. This method also helps to increase homework motivation . But do not get stuck on one task. Spend several minutes on your assignment. If you cannot do it, proceed to the next one. When you are through, you’ll be able to come back to the assignments you have missed.

School students can find free homework paper samples on any topic. Setting the template you like would help to solve similar problems in the future.  

Your parents may control you until you finish your homework assignments. They might also know other great tips as they used to study at school one day too. Create a study plan with them . To help you stay focused on homework, they should come to your room every X minutes (it’s up to you) and check whether you work hard. Don’t ask your little sister/brother to help. Only people older than you know how to focus on homework and other scrupulous tasks. They need to concentrate on their work every day so that they can share practical tips with you. Should parents help with homework ? Read our guide to find out.

7. Find Creative Environment 

What surrounds you matters. Find a place for studying where nothing distracts you, and you can focus on homework. Also, make sure to prepare all the things you’ll need to complete the assignment (pens, pencils, books, laptop, etc.) so that you can focus on your study activities and avoid distracting yourself every 10 minutes.

There are many distracting factors around, and the computer is the top thing to avoid while focusing on homework assignments. However, it’s not that easy sometimes: sitting in front of your computer all the time is one of the requirements of modern education — a real challenge for the human brain. You probably have a lot of music, movies, and games installed. People trying to connect with you on social networks is another significant problem. On the other side, you don’t want to block your friends forever.  Try software that will block access to distracting websites like social accounts and online gaming for several hours while you are working. Leave free access only to several good websites related to your educational process or homework answer websites . We mean online libraries and online homework writing services that can help. If you cannot distract yourself from the phone and keep checking your Facebook, Instagram, or other social media, feel free to block these apps for the time you work on your home assignment.

Some distractions serve as your rewards during the breaks. Make sure there are 10-15 minutes breaks in your homework study plan, just like at school. Make a list of things you like the most. Set a goal based on those priorities.  For example, if you prefer listening to music more than reading or playing Super Mario, dedicate 10-15 minutes of your break to this activity. Classical music even helps to remain focused on your homework assignments. Popular songs with lyrics are all distractions. It is better to avoid such music.

If you are not motivated to focus on your homework assignment, set yourself a reward for completing this work. It might be anything, starting with some tasty food to going to a nice place. Such a reward will motivate you to complete the task faster. Check this blog post to discover more ideas on how to make homework fun .

Music helps to get extra concentration, but not any music. Classical music can also help focus on homework. Also, there are some special applications with customized music lists. Find such music on YouTube, for example. Just type music for concentration or music for studying.

Your computer serves as a great helping tool when you know how to use it properly. Set up either a homework planner or calendar to keep track of the learning process. Things like that help get focused on homework as you know the timeline and all the important deadlines on it, ensuring getting high grades. It is better to search on the official Android & AppStore to find great trackers and planners. Some apps offer help with math homework; others include a variety of good features too: 

  • setting alarms/notifications
  • managing time with the help of academic calendar
  • finding proper music
  • providing effective learning tips
  • getting rid of distractions
  • breaking homework assignments into several parts
  • solving problems faster
  • complete study guides
  • improved options for taking in-class notes

Use these great homework apps to feel focused:

  • iStudiez Pro
  • Scanner Pro
  • Cite This for Me (ex RefMe)
  • Wolfram Alpha

One of the most obvious answers to this question is that most probably you do not want to study and want to go out with your friends, go to the cinema, or do something else. For this reason, you cannot focus on homework and keep on procrastinating. If it’s not the case, there might be some other reasons.

  • There might be some distractions, such as your phone, TV, or friends . Find the place where you can focus on homework and remove all the distractions. Turn on calm music or find special music for learning, which encourages concentration.
  • The other reason is that you are hungry or tired . Then, have a nap and eat something tasty, but avoid unhealthy snacks and overeating.
  • One more possible reason is that you are overloaded with tasks or do not know how to write that particular assignment. The easiest way out is to get writing assistance from professionals. 
  • Lack of motivation is another cause especially when you have too much homework . In such a case, motivate yourself, set a reward for completing the assignment, and focus on homework. 

These 12 learning tips are very effective when you work on your school or college papers days and nights long and cannot properly focus on your homework. But such a life sacks all the creativeness and desire away in a snap, and you still have to invest time in education to get a good job in the future. Thus, many students make it through with the help of online writing services. The hardest part here was to find the right place to make your order – and here we are – and the complete paper full of great ideas on any topic or problem will be delivered just on time! 

Students Also Ask 

1. does physical condition affect my ability to focus on homework .

Yes. It is hard sitting all day long in front of the computer. Do easy physical exercises every 15-30 minutes to feel better. Stop taking notes or writing an essay for an hour or two to take a rest in the park or gym next door so that your brain gets refreshed.

2. Is it only me who cannot focus on homework? 

No, you are way away from being alone here. More than 70% of students and workers in the world have serious troubles with focusing on homework and concentration on routine tasks and work because of a variety of reasons: stress, lack of physical activity, wrong diet, environmental issues, personal or family problems, and ADHD. 

 3. I can’t focus on homework in any way. What to do? 

It is not easy to change ways and regain concentration, especially when you are dealing with stress and other problems. Begin with analyzing blockers, research, and list each kind of distraction for your brain; find out what other things make you turn away from essay or term paper. Find ways to motivate yourself to focus on homework and accomplish the task.

4. Should I focus on homework without pauses? 

Don’t use the entire precious time on writing essays, learning, and focusing on homework – leave space for fun and rest. Otherwise, the brain won’t be able to focus, and you will not start doing homework at once. People who fall asleep after being tired every several minutes can’t concentrate on their work or learning process.  

Kids from 5 to 12 grade that study at school get a lot of homework during studying. Some of them couldn't understand the goal of spending a lot of time on their assignments. Some children may say they have got too much homework that is useless and just boring, they want answer the question who do my...

It is hard to argue with a lot of researches that show the pitfalls of homework. Yet, the benefits prevail and you keep getting your math, literature, and history homework every day. Leave the arguments to scholars and other educators, and take care of your home assignment. If you feel like homework...

Are you a parent who wants to encourage his kid to study? Or you are a student who just wants to find out how to do homework effectively. No matter who you are and how hard the homework is. Our homework service made an article that will teach our readers how to make homework fun and deal with it eff...

  • Everyone Wants to Work Here
  • Personal Productivity Secrets
  • Work Without Walls
  • Attention Management
  • From To-Do to Done
  • The Happy Inbox
  • 7-Day Restoration Handbook
  • Control Your Tech Guide
  • 10-Step Email Recovery Plan
  • Email Etiquette Mini-Course
  • Book Discussion Guides
  • Work With Me
  • 424-226-2872

Maura Thomas

How to Concentrate on Work Without Getting Distracted

Nov 13, 2021 | General Productivity Articles | 3 comments

How to Concentrate on Work Without Getting Distracted

It’s impossible to prevent distractions completely. But if you’re struggling to concentrate at work, you can minimize distractions by learning to manage your attention.

To concentrate on work without getting distracted requires learning a new set of skills. Learning attention management skills can increase your ability to control both internal and external distractions. This improves focus and increases productivity.

Any time you respond to distraction—whether it’s by answering a text that just showed up, or pursuing a random thought that just popped into your head—you’re being reactive . The problem is that we can only be productive when we’re being proactive .

10 Tips to Help You Focus Better on Work 

In this article, I’ll share some strategies you can use to maintain a state of proactivity. These strategies will help you resist internal and external distractions, so you can better concentrate on work, and achieve your most important goals.

1. Recognize That Technology is Hijacking Your Attention

Most of us are living in a state of constant distraction, allowing repeated interruptions that derail us from making progress on our projects, our priorities, and the significant results in our lives. 

We live in a constant state of self-induced distraction.  I say “self-induced” because we create the situation. The screens we surround ourselves with are designed to steal our attention from us .

The first step in changing any habit is awareness. Try keeping a piece of scrap paper in your work area and make a mark every time your technology distracts you, like when you react to a notification, stop what you’re doing to check the weather, look up something on your device (unrelated to what you were doing), or read an email just because it arrived.

Do this for at least a few hours, maybe even a few days. I think you’ll be surprised at how often it happens. It might illustrate that you aren’t really in charge of your days. 

2. Take Control of Your Email

Now that you’ve recognized the first big problem, you’re ready to address it. Let’s begin with email, one of the biggest attention thieves.

Why? Because email is full of other people’s priorities and passions. When you receive an email, it’s because someone is likely wanting you to set aside your important tasks to react to what they need. 

And the sooner the better, of course.

One of the best ways you can improve your ability to concentrate on work is to get your email under control. By this, I mean to adopt a systematic approach to reviewing and processing email.

If you’re struggling to concentrate on work, don’t use your inbox like the junk drawer in your home. Messages shouldn’t live there for very long. Instead, move them out of your inbox after you’ve read them. Add them to your task list if there is something you need to do. Or put them in a general “storage” folder if you think you might need the message later. 

If you’re struggling with distractions, you need to invest the time to set up email filters. This will stop messages from marketers or newsletters from unnecessarily distracting you during your workday. Create rules that send those to a folder that you can review at your convenience, or when the need arises. 

If your email is out of control and you need help with your strategy, download my helpful Control Your Tech workbook by filling out the form just below:  It’s a step-by-step guide to how to make your technology work for you, and not the other way around.

3. Don’t Try to “Multitask”

When you have more than one screen open at a time, you are, by definition, setting yourself up for distraction. While some jobs require two screens of “real estate” to make the job easier, most people use the second screen to monitor incoming communication. .

In this case, having a second screen sets you up to derail your productivity.

Did you know that research shows that multitasking isn’t even something humans can do? Instead, we do one task and then switch our attention to the other and back again. What we call “multitasking” is really just “task-switching.”

And here’s the catch—each time we switch our attention, it can take anywhere from two minutes to two hours to get back to what we were doing.

So task switching is a threat to productivity. If you’re serious about how you can concentrate on work without getting distracted, commit to using only one screen at a time.

4. Put Your Phone on Silent Instead of Vibrate

If you carry around a smartphone in your pocket, you are carrying a disruption machine. You may realize that, but feel you have no choice. 

You probably also put your phone on silent or vibrate when you need to concentrate, thinking that you have done everything possible to increase your ability to concentrate on work without getting distracted.

While putting your phone on “vibrate” shows you take care not to disturb others, it also shows that you feel it’s fine to interrupt yourself!  

Even if you put your phone on “silent,” your screen will still light up to alert you to an incoming call or text. This alone can divert your attention from the task at hand. 

Instead, treat your attention like the valuable resource it is. Whenever you need to focus deeply—whether during a meeting with someone else, or an appointment with yourself—put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” mode.

If you’re struggling to concentrate on work, you’ll want to retrieve your messages when you’re ready. You will need to control your phone rather than let your phone control you. 

Click here to get the free Control Your Tech guide . It includes step-by-step directions on how to use “Do Not Disturb” mode.

5. Don’t Use Social Media or other Internet Browsing to “Take a Break”

If you feel you need a break from work, getting sucked into the rabbit hole of social media, news, or sports scores isn’t truly giving your brain the refreshment it needs. 

As long as you are still on a screen, the same parts of your brain continue working (the part you use to read).

Restoration is key to unleashing your genius. To truly refresh your mind, try a more restorative activity. Instead of more screen time, try going for a brisk walk outside, doing a short meditation, chatting with a friend, or eating a healthy snack.

Check out this post for more strategies to help you unleash your genius .

6. Use Boundary-Setting Signals with Other People

Let’s face it: Whether you work from home or in an office full of colleagues, there are likely to be people who would like— need! —your attention right NOW.

You need a plan to avoid interruptions by others. If you don’t have a plan, you’ll spend your days being reactive to the priorities of whoever is interrupting you.

Fortunately, there are some easy, low-tech ways to signal you are busy and prefer not to be disturbed. These include:

  • Closing your office door if you have one.
  • Putting a Do Not Disturb sign up. (You can download funny ones here for free.)
  • Wearing noise-canceling headphones.
  • Making a whiteboard available for older children, teens, or team members (depending on where you’re working) to leave you a message.

The trick with all of these strategies is to be diligent with them. You can’t put up a sign and leave it there all day, because then it won’t have meaning. Use your signal for 15-30 minutes every hour, or 60-90 minutes a few times per day, so you can do heads-down, thoughtful work. The rest of the time you can be available to others, if necessary.

7. Recognize the 4 Different Types of Attention

Most people tend to think they’re either paying attention or they’re not. But your attention isn’t such a simple on/off mechanism. 

A useful tool for learning how to concentrate on work without getting distracted is to read about the four attention categories from my 4 Quadrants of Attention Management model:
  • Reactive and Distracted
  • Daydreaming
  • Focused and Mindful

Each of these types of attention can be summoned by setting the correct environmental conditions. And each type of attention is best suited to helping you perform a particular type of task. 

So, for example, let’s say you’ve been trying and trying to use your logical mind to solve a work problem. But so far, no luck. You can willfully set the conditions for Daydreaming, a state that helps our subconscious minds create insights. 

To do this, resist the urge to pull out your phone whenever you are bored or unoccupied. Instead, let your mind wander. In doing so, you are priming your brain for an “aha!” moment.

If you’re struggling to concentrate on work, learning about the four quadrants of attention management and how to leverage them can make a big difference in your life.

8. Practice Attention Management with the 7-Day Restoration Handbook

We need to deliberately and proactively practice attention management. Just like we can build our aerobic capacity by running a bit longer each time we work out, we can also train our minds to focus in various ways through exercises designed to accomplish this goal.

If you’re ready to exercise your attention management muscle, fill out the form below. I’ll send my “7-Day Restoration Handbook” straight to your inbox. You’ll get daily exercises that you can do in just a few minutes as you’re going about your regular routine.

At the end of the week, you’ll notice your attention management muscle is a lot stronger. You’ll be much more capable of concentrating at work and much better at preventing distractions.

9. Collect Your Thoughts…Literally!

We all field interruptions all day long, and some of those interruptions and distractions come from our own random thoughts. 

But the last thing we should do if we want to be productive is to immediately act on every thought that pops into our heads.

So what should you do if you’re in the middle of a meeting and you suddenly remember that you forgot to run an important errand earlier in the day? 

You could block out the rest of the meeting, as you frantically try to think of what to do to make up for your mistake. If you don’t have a place to record random thoughts like this, they’re likely to hijack your attention.

However, if you have a system for dealing with random thoughts, you’re much more likely to return your attention to the meeting and keep it there.

The truth is, you can only manage what you can see, and the way to see your thoughts is to record them someplace outside of your head!

Using an electronic task list (rather than random pads, sticky notes, and notebooks) to organize your thoughts and responsibilities is one of the easiest and most effective ways to boost your productivity. For much more about how to implement a productivity system based on attention management, be sure to read 12 Ways to Organize Your Workload and Feel Better .

10. Learn to Meditate

Meditation is perhaps the one skill more essential to learn than any other if you are serious about learning how to concentrate on work without getting distracted.

Meditation is quite literally the practice of focusing your attention internally, recognizing when your mind wanders, and bringing it back to the task at hand. 

The question a non-meditator might ask is, “Why waste 20-30 minutes twice a day sitting around doing nothing when I could be accomplishing more stuff in that time?” This is a question I have received before and my secret thought around this is, “How do people get through the day without it?”

There are many reasons people choose to engage in a meditation practice. One of them is specifically to accomplish more .

The “sitting-down-quiet” type of meditation actually creates a deeper degree of rest than even the deepest part of sleep. Meditation reverses the typical signs of stress. It can change the levels of stress chemicals like lactate and cortisol in the blood. 

Meditation also can elevate levels of serotonin, which is a happiness marker, which can allow a person to be more focused and happier!

To get started, download an app like Headspace or Buddhify and follow a guided meditation. The narrator will explain exactly what to do to relax and let go, as you build your attention management muscle.

How to Concentrate Better on Work

The most important way to build your capacity to concentrate on work without getting distracted is to learn about attention management and practice your skills.

When you know how to manage your attention, you’ll live proactively rather than reactively. You’ll feel more energized and consistently achieve more of your important goals with far less stress.

To get started building your attention management muscle, get the “7-Day Restoration Handbook.” Fill out the form below and you can get started right away.

Lisa Sicard

Hi Maura, email is the biggest distraction for me. I often get new work via email so I don’t want to miss it but I get so much junk email as well. I’ve really go to set a timer for when to look at my email. I do handle the other distractions pretty well now as I’ve had to in order to get a lot of work done in my biz. Thanks for these tips! I like to go for a walk mid day – similar to your mediating tip!

Maura Thomas

Thanks for reading and commenting Lisa! There are some great free resources, including for getting fewer emails, on this page: https://maurathomas.com/free-resources/ . I hope you find them helpful!

Thanks Maura, I will check those out – anything to get fewer emails today!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Training for Teams

  • PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
  • EDIT Edit this Article
  • EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
  • Browse Articles
  • Learn Something New
  • Quizzes Hot
  • This Or That Game New
  • Train Your Brain
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
  • School Stuff
  • Class Distractions

How to Stop Getting Distracted by Your Phone when Studying

Last Updated: October 16, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Alyssa Chang . Alyssa Chang is a nutrition coach and trainer, based in the San Francisco Bay Area. She uses her extensive background in brain-based neuroscience to work with clients on improving their connections with their brain and body to heal, reach goals, and move pain-free. She holds a BS in Kinesiology and Exercise, Nutrition and Wellness from the California State University, East Bay and is certified in Precision Nutrition, Z-health Performance and is certified by the National Council for Strength and Fitness. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 93% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 77,254 times.

Technology allows us to access to endless data and research opportunities. The same devices that help you to learn can also distract you from getting your work done. The best way to stop getting distracted by your phone or device is to turn it off; however, many people use devices to study. Start by reducing your connectivity and planning your study session in chunks of time.

Using Distraction-Blocking Apps

Step 1 Switch on the “Do Not Disturb” mode.

  • On iPhones, swipe up from the home screen to access your basic settings. Tap the moon shape and this function will be enabled.
  • On Android phones, pull down the notifications drawer. Swipe down again to access the quick settings. Turn the Do not disturb function and select the amount of time you want it to be active. [1] X Research source

Step 2 Download a timing app or use your timer to work for a period of time.

  • You can download an app called Pomodoro or Unplugged that set timers for you and tracks your progress. With some of these apps, they remind you to set the phone down if you try to use it during the allotted time.

Step 3 Use Airplane mode to turn off your ability to connect to an outside network.

Organizing Your Studying Process

Step 1 Make a to-do list so that you have a feasible game plan for your study session.

  • Splitting your studying into separate tasks can also ensure you do a thorough job. For example, you may have a research session, an outlining session and a session where you write each of the major points in a paper.

Step 3 Do the most important/hardest tasks near the beginning of your study session.

Supercharge Your Studying with this Expert Series

1 - Study For Exams

Expert Q&A

  • Computer-users can take advantage of even more distraction-free apps and browser extensions. Whether you use a Mac or a Windows device, you can set timers and block capabilities before they distract you. [4] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Allow your phone to go dead more often. If you arrive at study time and you don’t have enough battery to use your cell phone or you have low battery, you are more likely to save it until after your session. Leave your charger in another place to ensure you will follow the no-cell phone rules. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

  • Some of the phone apps that get rid of distractions are paid apps. Try the free version if it is available, to ensure it’s something you need. Thanks Helpful 13 Not Helpful 3

Things You'll Need

  • App Store account
  • Distraction-free apps
  • Task blocks

You Might Also Like

Access YouTube at School

Expert Interview

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about interpersonal relationships, check out our in-depth interview with Alyssa Chang .

  • ↑ http://www.androidcentral.com/inside-android-ms-new-do-not-disturb-mode
  • ↑ http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/day-blocking-mobile-distractions/
  • ↑ http://examinedexistence.com/training-the-brain-how-to-focus-better-and-avoid-distractions/
  • ↑ http://99u.com/articles/6969/10-online-tools-for-better-attention-focus

About This Article

Alyssa Chang

  • Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Nirupama Dey

Nirupama Dey

Sep 19, 2017

Did this article help you?

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

Jan 9, 2022

Anonymous

Feb 21, 2019

Am I a Narcissist or an Empath Quiz

Featured Articles

Learn to Say No

Trending Articles

How to Take the Perfect Thirst Trap

Watch Articles

Wrap a Round Gift

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

How to Focus on Your Homework & Avoid Distractions

Accomplishing homework can be a daunting task for most students. Some even lose focus and divert their attention to other things. However, this can mess up the timing, and students do not finish the homework on time. This article features the best ideas and approaches on how to focus on homework and accomplish the task on time. Use these tips and see the change it brings your way when handling homework.

Tips to Ensure you do Homework without distractions

  • Read materials on how to focus on homework

Reading books and articles is one of the best ways to gain adequate knowledge to learn about something. We have pioneers and experts who understand the nature of homework and how some factors can distract students. Read such content from online platforms and from the books in the library to know how you can finish homework without distractions.

  • Discuss homework focus with fellow students

One of the best ways to accomplish and focus on homework is by engaging with other students. In the discussion, let each student give ideas on what works best for them when doing homework. Also, ask some daunting questions on your side and get perfect ideas from fellow students.

  • Watch a show explaining how to concentrate on homework

In your free and relaxed moments, do some research and watch content related to focusing on homework. Some professors have taken a step to create amazing content to help students in their academic works. So, take a moment and watch such shows for a better experience.

  • Talk to your tutor about how to focus better on homework

Sometimes as a student, you can go far looking for a solution to your academic work when you have a solution right before you. Your teacher should be your number one priority when you have a burning question. When doing homework, teachers understand better what destructs students the most, and they can explain to you the best approaches you need to take to ensure you are on the right move.

  • Ask your parent or guardian how to focus on homework

At home, your parents and guardians understand you better. They know the kind of activities that take up most of your time, and you fail to accomplish the homework on time. Talk to them and get guidance on what you should avoid to ensure you finish your homework on time.

  • Read the concepts explaining how to stay focused in school

All a student needs is motivation, especially when handling academic work. But how do you get good motivation as a student? First, read materials that encourage you to focus on school work. Reading through these concepts will give you the morale to work hard and look forward to achieving your goals. You can also read through biographies of those who focused on school work and became successful. This will motivate you even more.

  • Write down tips for focusing on homework

When gathering the tips to accomplish your academic work, you will need to research and read more. In the process of researching, make sure you note down vital elements you need to put into practice. Then, when you write down the tips, you can revise them once in a while to ensure you stay on track and make it a habit.

  • Evaluate personal habits; for instance, ask yourself, “why can’t I focus on homework?”

At times, students fail to realize that the solution to academic excellence should come from within. There are some habits students can engage in them, and these habits can ruin their academic performances—for instance, the issue with procrastination. Suppose you are the type that procrastinates a lot. Review your habits and start maintaining discipline when handling schoolwork. You will do away with bad habits and start embracing good habits with time.

Concentration on schoolwork is one of the activities some students find hard to accomplish. If you always find it hard to handle your academic work on time, try incorporating the above tips in your learning experience for better results.

how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

IMAGES

  1. How to Focus on Work at Home without Getting Distracted?

    how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

  2. How to focus on homework without getting distracted?

    how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

  3. 9 Simple Tips for Teaching Kids How to Focus on Homework

    how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

  4. A Parent's Guide: How to Focus on Homework without any rama

    how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

  5. Curious Kids: how can we concentrate on study without getting

    how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

  6. 17 Useful Tips On How To Stay Focused On Homework In 2023

    how to concentrate on homework without getting distracted

VIDEO

  1. How to Study for Long Hours📚 (EASY TRICK) 🎯

  2. How to Finish Homework Fast

  3. How to study without getting distracted 🙃 💖 || typically_veeDa

  4. How to Study After School When You're Tired

  5. Beginner workout at home #gymmotivation #fitness #bodybuilding #homeworkout #shorts

  6. Tips to study without getting distracted ✨️📚🔥|#fypシ #aesthetic #student #studytips

COMMENTS

  1. 16 Ways to Concentrate on Your Homework

    Get up and walk or stretch occasionally, or even do jumping jacks or run in place for a couple of minutes. Standing up while you work is also a great way to boost your focus. [1] Try sitting on an exercise ball or wobbly chair when you're doing your homework. The movement may help you stay focused.

  2. How to Study Without Getting Distracted: Tips From The Experts

    Study distractions can either be internal or external. Internal study distractions include physiological needs and emotional thoughts. External study distractions include technology and people. Your child must be able to focus on his or her homework to complete and understand what he or she is learning. By making sure your child is avoiding ...

  3. Stop Homework Distractions

    Here are nine interruption busters to help you concentrate on homework without getting distracted to reach your goals. 1. Make homework a habit. You brush your teeth before bed; it's just what happens. Same with homework. You do homework after school. Or, you do homework after dinner.

  4. How to Focus on Homework: 12 Hacks for Busy Students

    Decide on fixed hours for studying and tell your friends and family members that you won't be available during that time of the day. If others respect your study time, you'll be more inclined to respect it as well. 6. Listen to study music. There are many tracks out there designed to help your mind focus.

  5. How to Stay Focused: 10 Tips to Improve Your Focus and Concentration

    declutter the space where you will be working. 2. Coffee in small doses. Drinking coffee, or other caffeinated beverages, in small doses may positively impact your ability to focus. A 2021 study ...

  6. How to Focus When Studying: 20 Uncommonly Effective Tips

    By keeping score in this way, you'll focus on the process of doing the work. As a result, you'll get more work done! 19. When you feel as if you're about to get distracted, write it down. It's inevitable: From time to time, you'll get distracted during your study sessions. So you need a strategy for dealing with these distractions.

  7. 7 Great Tips to Learn How to Focus on Homework without Getting Distracted

    Allow yourself a short break once you've completed each task. Snack on nourishing, healthy food such as blueberries, nuts and wholegrain bread. A focus-based meditation can help you to clear your mind and get into the right mindset. Staying organised is key; group your notes into each subject, and then each topic.

  8. How to Concentrate on Studies (with Pictures)

    1. Make a timetable. If you have a long night of studying ahead of you, make a plan for the day. Aim to work for 30-60 minute periods with 5-10 minute breaks in between. Try dividing work into smaller chunks. Your brain needs the break to recharge. It's not laziness - it's letting your brain synthesize the information.

  9. How to avoid distractions while studying, according to science

    Overall, these results suggest that using media when studying should be limited due to the decrease in performance when multi-tasking. One strategy to avoid the negative effects of media multi ...

  10. How to Focus on Studying

    Here are seven tips to help enhance your productivity: Get organized with a to-do list. Silence alerts and keep open Internet tabs to a minimum. Break big projects into small pieces. Use music and headphones to cut down noise. Find the best environment for efficient studying. Clean up and organize your work-space.

  11. Tips to improve concentration

    Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night, and 150 minutes per week of aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking. Other healthy steps to improve focus: eat a Mediterranean-style diet, which has been shown to support brain health; treat underlying conditions; and change medications that may be affecting your ability to focus.

  12. 8 Tips For Studying At Home More Effectively

    Try to reserve your bed for sleeping and avoid studying in it (it can be all too easy to take a nap!). Most importantly, keep your study space clean and organized so you can put more time into studying (and less trying to find a pen that works). 5. Eat Properly. Don't forget to eat! Your body (and your brain) needs fuel to help stay in top form.

  13. Distracted by Technology: Focusing Attention on Homework

    Welcome to the 21st century. A world filled with distractions every where you turn. How is it even possible to get homework done at all, let alone focus on doing homework without being distracted by a wide variety of electronic gadgets. Back in the not so distant past, you might have heard a kid saying "It doesn't matter if I have the TV on ...

  14. How to Focus on Homework:18 Specific Tips to Use

    Thus, large meals can make you unproductive. Instead, preparing snacks and water beforehand is one of the easy-to-implement tips to help focus on homework. Water prevents dehydration and helps in digestion. Healthy snacks are a crucial element of a well-balanced diet, particularly when studying for long periods.

  15. How to Not Get Distracted: Smart Ways to Stay Productive

    One technique you can try is the Pomodoro Technique — set a timer for 25 minutes and work on your task without distraction. Then, take a 5-minute break that is also timed. Then, go back to focused work for another 25 minutes. That way, you can work in highly focused sprints.

  16. How to STUDY effectively without getting bored, distracted or tired

    Tips on How to stay productive and focused when studying🌈 Get 2 Free Months of Skillshare Premium! (first 500 people to click): https://skl.sh/simplevictori...

  17. PDF How can I reduce distractions while studying or taking a test ...

    • Move around while studying. Get up and use a whiteboard or change positions often. • Chewing gum is sometimes helpful for focus, and/or having a stress ball or other fidget device can help when you start to feel restless. • Some students find sitting on an exercise ball while studying helpful with focus as well.

  18. Curious Kids: how can we concentrate on study without getting distracted?

    First, try to adjust the amount of light and noise to a level that works best for you. This might mean getting rid of excessive background noise, or quietening it to a level that helps you ...

  19. How to Focus on Homework Easily and Not to Procrastinate in 2021

    4. Prioritize Your Tasks. Another essential skill in completing your homework is the ability to prioritize your tasks. Arrange your tasks given by a teacher in order of importance and level of difficulty. Try to complete the most challenging tasks first. This method also helps to increase homework motivation.

  20. How to Concentrate on Work Without Getting Distracted

    If you're serious about how you can concentrate on work without getting distracted, commit to using only one screen at a time. 4. Put Your Phone on Silent Instead of Vibrate. If you carry around a smartphone in your pocket, you are carrying a disruption machine. You may realize that, but feel you have no choice.

  21. How to Stop Getting Distracted by Your Phone when Studying

    4. Inform your friends that you are unavailable when you are studying. Block out regular time when they know you will be unavailable. 5. Place your phone on a shelf or in another area of the room, rather than on your desk. 6. Give your phone to a friend, if you can't stay away from it.

  22. How to Focus on Homework Without Getting Distracted

    Discuss homework focus with fellow students. One of the best ways to accomplish and focus on homework is by engaging with other students. In the discussion, let each student give ideas on what works best for them when doing homework. Also, ask some daunting questions on your side and get perfect ideas from fellow students.