'I can't concentrate!' How to improve focus and memory, by Brainscape on YouTube. 6 min 17 s.
- Video length
- 6 min 17 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 7
What you need
Steps
Pick one study task and make it easy to start. Keep your books, notes or flashcards already open on the desk so there is no setup delay.
Set small milestones for the session, such as finishing one chapter or 20 flashcards. Write them down so you know when you have hit each one.
Before you start, write down the worries or tasks running through your head. Set them aside until after the session so they stop pulling your attention.
Block outside distractions. Put your phone in another room or on silent, close extra browser tabs and tell people around you that you are studying.
Plan your breaks before you begin. Work for a set block such as 25 minutes, then take a short 5 minute break away from your desk.
Start the timer and work on your first milestone. When a distracting thought appears, note it and return to the task.
Review your milestones at the end of each block. Tick off what you finished and set the next small goal before your break ends.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep your phone out of reach, not just face down, because even a silent phone can pull your attention.
Make milestones small enough to finish in one work block so you get regular wins.
Take real breaks away from screens so your focus recovers for the next block.
Write down stray thoughts on paper instead of chasing them mid-session.
Questions
How long should each study block be?
A common choice is 25 minutes of work followed by a 5 minute break. Adjust the length to what you can sustain without drifting.
What if I get distracted by my own thoughts?
Jot the thought on a list and return to your task. Deal with the list after the session instead of in the middle of it.
Do I need an app to do this?
No. A timer and a piece of paper are enough. Flashcard apps can help you turn milestones into quick review sessions.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
