10 tips for improving concentration while studying

Concentration doesn’t come naturally to everyone, and many people find it difficult to focus long enough to be able to learn, study, and revise.

Many different factors can affect your ability to concentrate, including lack of sleep, distractions, stress, irritability, frustration, as well as a range of mental health conditions.

Whether you’re studying for an important exam, working towards earning your degree or learning a new skill at work, difficulties with concentration can be incredibly frustrating.

If you find it hard to concentrate, read our 10 top tips for improving concentration whilst studying.

Train your brain

Your brain is incredibly powerful and you can train it to help improve your concentration levels.

For example, research has shown that playing games such as sudoku, chess, jigsaw puzzles and word searches can help to develop your memory, problem-solving skills and ability to focus for longer periods of time.

Get more sleep

Lack of sleep can have a huge impact on all areas of your life, including your general health and wellbeing. With this in mind, if you are struggling with your concentration levels and other cognitive functions, you should look at ways you can improve your amount and quality of sleep.

Limiting screen time before bed and ensuring your room is the correct temperature for sleeping to winding down before bed and getting exercise in the day can all help.

Exercise

As well as many health and fitness benefits, exercising regularly can also help to improve your concentration. So set some time aside each day to workout and work towards achieving your personal fitness goals.

Take a break and get some fresh air

When you are studying, it’s important that you take regular breaks. Many people find stepping outside and getting some fresh air is incredibly helpful – even just 10 minutes can really help to boost your concentration and focus.

Meditate

Meditating offers a whole host of health and wellbeing benefits, including helping to improve your attention span and focus. If you’re new to meditation, there are lots of apps and resources that will help you.

Listen to music

Playing music whilst you work can help to increase your concentration levels. But remember the type of music you listen to will have an impact on how productive you are.

Experts state that classical music and ambient electronic music provide the perfect backdrop to study sessions and can help to optimise your focus.

Eat well

A diet that is high in fat, sugar and grease will have a huge impact on your ability to concentrate for long periods of time. Instead, incorporate lots of foods that will boost your concentration levels including spinach, blueberries, eggs, and other fruit and veg.

Never miss breakfast

It’s true what they say, you should never miss breakfast. Giving you the fuel you need to face your day, eating a healthy, balanced breakfast can boost your concentration levels, improve your memory and help you to focus.

Stay hydrated

When studying, it’s important that you stay hydrated as even mild dehydration can make it difficult to process and retain information. So, make sure that you’ve always got your water bottle to hand.

Try supplements

Finally, there are also several different supplements that can be used to help promote concentration and improve brain function, including Folate, Choline, Vitamin K, Flavonoids Omega-3 fatty acids, and Guarana seed extract. Of course, you should always consult your doctor before introducing any new supplements into your diet.

If you’d like to start a new course, or help support someone who is studying in a professional capacity, contact us today to find out more about our counselling and hypnotherapy courses.