As Academic Skills Consultants, we see a lot of students struggling to keep focused on academic reading and writing. In a world of constant distraction, this is an issue that affects both students and staff. This post offers some advice and signposts to further support.
Firstly, think about your working environment. Where and when do you feel most productive? Do you prefer solitary, quiet environments or do you focus better in a library or study area, where being around other people provides motivation and accountability? Are there particular times of day that suit you best for particular tasks? Use this knowledge of yourself to plan a study timetable that works for you.
To stay focused, keep distractions to a minimum. Make sure that your phone is on silent and out of sight. If you are working on a lap top, limit the number of open ‘tabs’ to those essential for your task. The ReDD project (Reducing Digital Distraction) offers useful resources and workshops to help you manage your digital environment to reduce distraction.
Some people find that working in short, intensive bursts helps them to stay focused. Sometimes known as the ‘pomodoro’ technique, the ‘timer method’ suggests working against the clock for 20-25 minutes, taking a 5 minute break then repeating a few times until it’s time to take a longer break. Before you know it, you will have achieved 2-3 hours of focused work.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by large tasks or projects, break them down into a series of smaller, more manageable tasks. Plan when to do each task and tick them off when complete, to acknowledge your progress and boost motivation.
Finally, make sure you are well-rested, hydrated and not hungry! We all find it hard to focus if we are not physically ready to get the work done.
Further resources
Skills for Life and Learning Workshop ‘Enhance Your Focus: Clear distractions and train your attention to improve learning and well-being’ (various dates throughout the Semester) (all students)
‘Shut up and Write’ Writing Retreat sessions in the Main Library, last Thursday of the month from 14.00-17.00 (all students)
Writing Bootcamps for PGT students These sessions begin with a short Bitesize style workshop to offer advice on writing techniques and motivate you to write. Following this we offer a distraction- free period of writing.
‘How to focus on pre-recorded lectures’ Recorded during the pandemic, this short video from Dr Sarah Ivory, then a lecturer in the Business School, provides advice about focus in general, why it is so important and how we can improve focus.
Be well, learn well: improve your wellbeing and academic performance (2020) Gareth Hughes. This short book, available online through DiscoverEd, helps us to understand the links between wellbeing, learning and academic performance. It includes useful chapters on ‘Staying Motivated’ and ‘Don’t get stuck – getting work done’.
Study Skills Consultations – discuss your approach with one of our Academic Skills Consultants
