Wednesday, August 1, 2007

Concentration


We all have the ability to concentrate -- sometimes. Think of the times when you were "lost" in something you enjoy: a sport, playing music, a good game, a movie. Total concentration.
But at other times,

Your mind wanders from one thing to another
Your worries distract you
Outside distractions take you away before you know it
The material is boring, difficult, and/or not interesting to you.

These tips may help: They involve

What you can control in your studies
Best practices

What you can control in your studies:

"Here I study"Get a dedicated space, chair, table, lighting and environmentAvoid your cellphone or telephonePut up a sign to avoid being disturbed or interruptedIf you like music in the background, OK, but don't let it be a distraction. (Research on productivity with music versus without music is inconclusive)

Stick to a routine, efficient study schedule Accommodate your day/night time energy levels

FocusBefore you begin studying, take a few minutes to summarize a few objectives, gather what you will need, and think of a general strategy of accomplishment

Incentives Create an incentive if necessary for successfully completing a task,such as calling a friend, a food treat, a walk, etc.For special projects such as term papers, design projects, long book reviews, set up a special incentive

Change topicsChanging the subject you study every one to two hours for variety

Vary your study activities Alternate reading with more active learning exercisesIf you have a lot of reading, ask yourself how you could increase your activity level while studying? Perhaps a group will be best? Creating study questions?Ask your teacher for alternative strategies for learning. The more active your learning, the better.

Take regular, scheduled breaks that fit youDo something different from what you've been doing (e.g., walk around if you've been sitting), and in a different area

RewardsGive yourself a reward when you've completed a task

Best Practices:
You should notice improvement in a few daysBut like any practice, there will be ups, levels, and downs:
It will benefit other activities you do! http://www.studygs.net/concen.htm

No comments:

Post a Comment