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Building Concentration


How much you accomplish when you study is not wholly a matter of how much time you spend. It is how you use that time and how well you concentrate on the task that will determine how much you learn. The ability to concentrate is a skill that can be practiced and developed. The following are some steps you can take to build your concentration:

1. Eliminate External and Internal Distractions

External Distractions are generally sights and sounds that attract your attention.

  1. Avoid external distractions by selecting a quiet place to study. Clear you desk of unnecessary items.
  2. Ignore distracting sights and sounds by refusing to look up or give them any attention.
  3. Notify family and friends when you will be free to give them attention.

Internal Distractions are generally physical concerns, thoughts or worries.

  1. Eat, sleep and exercise regularly.
  2. Eliminate intrusive thoughts and daydreams. Whenever you notice your attention wandering, immediately yell “Stop!” aloud or under your breath. Then redirect your attention to the task at hand.

2. Increase Concentration

Your Attitude Towards Studying Will Affect Your Concentration.

  1. Be prepared to concentrate – plan to get some work done.
  2. Develop an interest in what you are doing. There is no substitute for sheer enjoyment of the subject.
  3. Gradually increase your attention span.

Techniques to Keep You on Track.

  1. Set time limits when you study. Divide your assignment into smaller units and set time goals for each unit.
  2. Vary the activity. A period of reading might be followed by a period of memorizing or writing.
  3. Plan breaks when studying for a long period. You can sustain maximum concentration for only a limited amount of time.

Develop the Habit.

  1. Establish a regular place that you use only for studying. When you are here, get right down to work.
  2. Designate a certain time to begin studying.
  3. Study efficiently. Being in the right place at the right time does not ensure that you will accomplish what you intend.

Credits
This page was developed with resources from:
http://counseling.binghamton.edu/Concentration.html
http://www.pvc.maricopa.edu/lsc/Services/Improvingmemory.htm
http://www.iss.stthomas.edu/concen.htm