How To Not Get Distracted When Studying

Summary

In this video, Sam, a Cambridge economics student, shares effective strategies to minimize distractions during exam season. He emphasizes the importance of limiting phone distractions, whether through deleting apps, turning off notifications, or keeping the phone out of sight. Sam also recommends creating a dedicated study space free of distractions and setting specific goals and deadlines to stay focused. Additionally, he highlights the value of maintaining healthy habits, including proper sleep, nutrition, and exercise, to boost cognitive ability and reduce distractions. These tips aim to improve productivity and focus while studying for exams.

Takeaways

• 😀 Limit phone distractions by deleting certain apps, such as social media, to prevent mindless scrolling during study time.
• 😀 Turn off phone notifications to minimize interruptions and stay focused while studying.
• 😀 Keep your phone out of sight, like in a closed drawer or handed to a family member, to reduce the temptation of checking it.
• 😀 Set clear and specific study goals and deadlines to provide direction and minimize distractions from uncertain tasks.
• 😀 Avoid using your phone during study breaks, as it can lead to longer breaks and reduce the quality of rest.
• 😀 Use apps like Forest to help focus and gamify your study process, turning studying into a more enjoyable activity.
• 😀 Create a designated study space that is free from distractions, associating that space only with studying to strengthen focus.
• 😀 Keep necessary study materials within arm's reach in your study space, so you don't waste time searching for them.
• 😀 Set clear and actionable deadlines, such as completing past papers by a certain date, to stay on track during study sessions.
• 😀 Build healthy habits like proper sleep, good nutrition, and regular exercise to improve cognitive ability and focus during exams.

Q & A

What is the main cause of distractions during the exam season, according to Sam?

The biggest source of distractions is often the phone, especially due to apps like social media and short-form content.

What is one approach Sam recommends to limit distractions from your phone?

One approach is deleting certain apps that are the main source of distraction, such as Instagram and TikTok.

How does deleting apps help with limiting distractions?

By deleting distracting apps, you avoid the temptation to open them when you pick up your phone, leading to mental clarity and a better focus on studying.

What is another method, besides deleting apps, to reduce phone distractions?

Turning off notifications can reduce distractions by preventing interruptions from messages or app alerts during study sessions.

Why is keeping your phone out of sight a helpful strategy?

When your phone is out of sight, it's out of mind, and you're less likely to be distracted by it while studying.

What does Sam recommend for study breaks to avoid distractions?

Sam recommends avoiding phone use during study breaks, as using your phone can extend the break and make it harder to refocus afterward. Activities like going for a walk or talking to a friend are better alternatives.

How can apps be used positively for studying?

Certain apps, like the Forest app, can help students focus by tracking study time and gamifying the process, making studying more enjoyable.

What is the benefit of creating a designated study space?

A designated study space helps create a mental distinction between studying and other activities. It also allows you to keep necessary study materials close and distractions far away.

What role does setting clear goals and deadlines play in reducing distractions?

Setting specific goals and deadlines gives you a clear direction, making it easier to stay focused and less likely to be distracted by irrelevant tasks or thoughts.

What are some healthy habits Sam mentions that can improve focus during the exam season?

Developing a good sleep schedule, ensuring proper nutrition and hydration, and engaging in regular exercise can significantly improve cognitive ability and focus, reducing distractions.