Developing Concentration Habits in College
The Ability to Focus Without Distraction is Called Concentration
Sep 20, 2009
It is much easier to concentrate on something enjoyable, like playing a game, reading a book or watching a favorite movie. It is easy to get immersed in a favorite activity and much harder to concentrate when studying or reading a class assignment. Focused concentration while studying is hard to do because of multiple distractions, both internal and external. The key to learning concentration is practicing several techniques, creating a plan and following it.
Get Into a Routine
Studying at the same time and same place whenever possible will help build concentration skills. Use a calendar or other time management tool and schedule study time for the same time every day. That time is blocked off for studying, so when friends come by and want to start up a game or trip to the mall it is important to remember that the time is already committed to studying. Soon everyone will start to remember this and the distractions will start to taper off. Invitations to play will stop. It will become much easier to concentrate on studying now.
Schedule Study Times That Work
Some people are night people, others are morning people. Schedule daily study times at the time that works best. It is easier to concentrate when the brain is awake and alert. Relax before the study session with some deep breathing, signaling the brain that it is time to get to work and concentrate on the reading material. Sometimes the addition of soft music (without lyrics) will help enhance learning. Studies show that music can affect the brain waves to stimulate creativity and enhance concentration.
Start the Term With Good Study Habits
It is easier to create a habit than it is to break one, so make sure that good habits are started early in the term. Good study habits include things like bringing all materials necessary to the study session, sitting in a comfortable chair, using a desk, having adequate lighting, and using the designated study area for studying only. The mind will start to know that it is time to settle down and start studying upon arrival in the designated study area. Concentration will be much easier in familiar surroundings.
Increase Attention Span
Tricking the subconscious part of the brain into thinking that the material being studied is the most exciting and interesting thing ever read will help convince the conscious part of the brain that it needs to concentrate. To do this, start by pretending to be very interested in the material. Soon the pretending will lead to real interest and, with time, this technique will improve concentration skills.
Create an Environment Conducive to Concentration
The goal is to create a distraction free area to study in, either at home, on campus, or in the library. Try to study in the same place and at the same time every day. Take a deep breath, clear the mind, and prepare to concentrate on the materials at hand. Don't create internal distractions by thinking of things not related to the task at hand, getting up and down to find books,notes, pencils, etc. Don't study in bed, or at the dinner table. Instead, concentrate on creating a perfect study area where the only activity is studying.
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