Are you an online college student who struggles with staying focused on your lessons? You are not alone. Many students feel they aren’t as productive while studying at home. They find themselves too distracted by the TV, social media, and even their own families.
Don’t fret if you feel like you’re in this same boat. Follow these tips to induce focus and make the most of your time studying.
Stick to your schedule
Sure, online learners have flexible schedules. You have the freedom to spend your time as you wish. But the problem is that you can easily get distracted and push studying to the back burner.
It’s essential to treat online learning as seriously as you would treat face-to-face education. You have to put in the same amount of effort, perhaps even more, to your online education because you are basically the one in charge. So, keep a study schedule and stick to it day after day to ensure that you are giving your coursework enough time and attention.
Find a dedicated study spot
You can learn anywhere you can access the internet, but your location can also make or break your focus. For example, you may study on the bed, but you might end up dozing after some time. Or, you could study in the living room, but you’ll probably get distracted by all the noise and buzz going on around you.
You want to find a spot where you can block out the noise and other distractions. It’s also great if you’d have a study table and a comfortable chair, so you’re sitting up instead of lying down. Finally, pick a spot with lots of good ventilation, so you are comfortable working on your coursework, even for long periods.
Take a break
You can only maintain your focus for some time. But when you feel like you aren’t absorbing any new information or are already tired and uncomfortable, it’s time to take a break. Stepping away from your coursework, even for a couple of minutes, helps you clear your head. This is your time to focus on yourself, so take a nap, go out for a run or eat ice cream if you want. After which, you can come back to your desk, feeling refreshed and invigorated.
