ADHD Study Tips (how to regain control)

Summary

This session explores ADHD and offers five practical tips to improve focus for students with ADHD-like tendencies. It emphasizes that ADHD doesn't diminish intelligence but requires effective tools. Key strategies include using visual learning, gamifying tasks, incorporating movement, removing distractions (especially phones), and having an accountability partner. The speaker also encourages personalized study approaches and recommends external resources to help with productivity and time management. With a casual, engaging tone, the class aims to help learners overcome focus challenges and optimize their academic performance.

Takeaways

• 📅 The ADHD seminar starts at 11 AM in the Zen Den.
• 🧠 ADHD doesn't mean someone is less intelligent; it's about finding the right tools to manage learning.
• 💡 People with ADHD experience difficulty focusing, procrastination, and managing time but should consult a doctor if these symptoms interfere with daily life.
• 🖍️ Visual learning is an excellent tool for ADHD students because colors, diagrams, and mind mapping help them engage and retain information better than just words.
• 🎮 Gamifying study sessions, such as using the SQ3R method, can help maintain focus by turning learning into a competitive game.
• 💪 Movement and exercise release neurochemicals like dopamine, aiding in focus for ADHD learners. Even small actions like playing with a fidget toy or doing push-ups can help.
• 🔕 Removing distractions, especially phones, is crucial for focus. ADHD learners should create quiet study environments and avoid stimulating places like coffee shops.
• 👯‍♀️ Having a study partner or accountability buddy can motivate ADHD students to stay on track.
• 🎧 Use calm, mellow music to help focus during study sessions.
• 🎓 Mike and Maddie offer helpful courses on Skillshare about studying, productivity, and time management, and there's a free one-month trial available.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the ADHD seminar in the video?

The ADHD seminar aims to provide tips and strategies to help individuals with ADHD manage their focus and learning effectively. It addresses common challenges like difficulty focusing, procrastination, and managing time.

Why does the speaker emphasize that having ADHD does not mean being less intelligent?

The speaker wants to dispel the misconception that ADHD affects intelligence or capability. Instead, they explain that people with ADHD just need different tools to manage their studies and daily tasks.

How can visual learning help individuals with ADHD according to the speaker?

Visual learning is beneficial because it's more stimulating and engaging, utilizing colors, pictures, and diagrams that convey information better than words alone. The process of drawing or handwriting also helps slow down the mind, making it easier to focus on and retain information.

What is the SQ3R method mentioned in the seminar?

The SQ3R method is a reading comprehension strategy that stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review. In the context of the seminar, it's used as a way to gamify studying by setting questions to answer before reading, making the process more engaging.

How does movement help individuals with ADHD focus better?

Movement increases the release of neurochemicals like dopamine and adrenaline, which are typically lower in individuals with ADHD. This can help improve focus and learning, even if it’s just simple activities like playing with a fidget toy or pacing.

Why is removing distractions especially important for individuals with ADHD?

Individuals with ADHD are more susceptible to distractions due to their high sensitivity to stimulation. Removing distractions, especially their phones, can significantly help them maintain focus and avoid impulsive behaviors like checking social media.

What is the role of an accountability buddy in managing ADHD symptoms?

An accountability buddy can provide motivation and structure, helping individuals with ADHD stay on track with their work by studying together and holding each other accountable for their tasks.

Why might the speaker suggest using mind mapping instead of traditional note-taking?

Mind mapping involves using minimal words, images, and colors to represent ideas and their connections. This technique is more stimulating and less linear, making it easier for people with ADHD to visualize and remember concepts.

What is the bonus tip provided at the end of the seminar?

The bonus tip suggests using resources like Skillshare courses to improve study skills, time management, and productivity. These courses are recommended to help ADHD students build effective habits and strategies.

What should someone do if they suspect they have ADHD according to the seminar?

If someone suspects they have ADHD, they should consider taking a screening test and speaking with a doctor. It's important to distinguish between occasional symptoms that everyone experiences and those that persistently interfere with daily life.