Lesley Martin, professional academic coach and founder of ClassTracker, shares her tips for staying productive.
Focus On One Thing At a Time. As much as we love having our phones to entertain us between chapters or problem sets, they really only hinder us. The brain is designed to focus on one cognitively demanding task at once. Studies have shown that when students multi-focus (i.e. doing homework while watching TV), it slows them down by almost 40%. By working in a totally distraction-free zone, you are able learn better and faster.
Tips:
- Put your phone on airplane mode—if you don’t know your best friend sent you the latest viral meme, you won’t feel the need to pick up your phone and reply.
- Find a place to study in your house where you won’t be interrupted or distracted.
Tips:
- Have your homework or study plan prepared before you get started so you know what you need to do for each “Pomodoro session.”
- Brainstorm a list of device-free break ideas. Here are a few: taking a snack break, snuggling your pet, or practicing five minutes of mindfulness.
Tip:
- Avoid using electronics at least 30 minutes before you go to bed- this will help you fall asleep more easily