how to focus on doing your homework

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How to Concentrate on Your Homework

Last Updated: May 6, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Josh Jones and by wikiHow staff writer, Megaera Lorenz, PhD . Josh Jones is the CEO and Founder of Test Prep Unlimited, a GMAT prep tutoring service. Josh built the world's first and only score guarantee program for private GMAT tutoring. He has presented at the QS World MBA Tour and designed math curricula for Chicago Public Schools. He has over 15 years of private tutoring and classroom teaching experience and a BA in Math from the University of Chicago. There are 15 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 434,220 times.

Focusing on homework can be tough, especially when you’d rather be doing anything else. Maybe your attention keeps wandering back to your phone, your stomach is growling, or you just want to put your head down and take a nap. The good news is that you can beat these distractions and get back on track with a few easy changes to your study routine.

Move around or stretch while you work.

• Try sitting on an exercise ball or wobbly chair when you’re doing your homework. The movement may help you stay focused.

Fuel up with water and healthy snacks.

• Apple slices with peanut butter
• Nuts, especially almonds
• Greek yogurt
• Fruit salad
• Dark chocolate

Put away anything that might make it hard to concentrate.

• Some people actually concentrate better with a little noise in the background. If it helps you to have some quiet music on, that’s totally fine! But if you find that it distracts you, turn it off.

Block distracting apps and websites on your computer or tablet.

• For example, you might need to block apps or websites like Facebook or YouTube while you’re working.
• If you get alerts or notifications on your device, turn them off so they won’t distract you. The last thing you need is your tablet blowing up with Facebook notifications while you’re trying to work!

Work on one assignment at a time.

• Don’t try to text your friends or have a conversation with a family member while you’re doing homework, either.

Break your assignments into smaller tasks.

• For example, if you’re supposed to read a book chapter and write a report, start by skimming the chapter headings for important points. Then, read the whole chapter and take notes. Next, make an outline for your report. After that, write the report, and finish up by checking it for mistakes.
• If you have more than one assignment to work on, make a to-do list and put the hardest or most important projects first.

Redirect your attention if you notice your mind wandering.

• It can help to pick a specific thing to focus on to bring yourself back to the present. For example, pay attention to your breathing or to any sounds you can hear around you.
• If you’re working with a friend or family member, ask them to help you stay on track. They can say something like, “Are you focused?” or tap you on the shoulder if they notice you getting distracted. [9] X Trustworthy Source Understood Nonprofit organization dedicated to resources and support to people with thinking differences, such as ADHD or dyslexia Go to source

Fidget with something to help you focus.

• Fidgets are great concentration aids for some people, but are distracting for others. Don’t keep using a fidget if it’s taking your mind off your work.

Turn your homework into a game to make it more fun.

• You can also turn it into a game with a friend or family member. For example, take turns quizzing each other and give points for each right answer. Whoever gets the most points wins the game.
• Or, if you’d rather not play a structured game, try making up a story about what you’re doing. For instance, if you’re studying history, imagine yourself living in the time period you’re learning about.

Try working with a study buddy.

• You could even get together with a small group. Trade notes, quiz each other, or just hang out quietly while you all do homework together.

Take a break at least once an hour.

• You can also use a timer to make sure your breaks don’t go on too long. Remember, the sooner you get back to work, the sooner you can get it done!
• If you’re feeling really restless, frustrated, or distracted, it’s okay to take a break ahead of schedule. Give yourself a few minutes to unwind, then try again.

Pick a time when you feel awake and rested if possible.

• Make it a routine to do your homework at the same time each day. For example, if you’re an evening person, try doing it right after supper every night. [16] X Research source Having a schedule will make your work feel less overwhelming.
• You can’t always choose the perfect time to do your homework, but having a routine can still help you get in the zone when it’s time to work! Once you pick a time, try to stick to it.

Study in a quiet, comfortable spot.

• If you’re studying at home with your family, ask them to keep it down while you work.
• Be careful studying in your room—if you use a space where you usually sleep or relax, it’ll be hard to get into homework mode! Set aside a spot just for homework, and don’t do your work in bed. [18] X Research source
• Finding a good study space can be tough, especially if there are other people around. If you can’t find a quiet spot, put on some noise-canceling headphones. Listen to white noise or peaceful music without vocals to help you tune out background sounds.

Organize your study supplies.

• If you like to nibble while you study, set your snacks out before you get started.
• If there’s stuff in your study space that you don’t need, take a few minutes to clean it up or put it away before you start working. Put completed assignments in their folders and throw away any trash.

Move to a new study spot if you’re feeling bored.

• Even changing your usual study space a little can help. For example, put up some new decorations or move to the other side of the dining table.
• It seems weird, but just the right amount of background noise can actually help you concentrate! That’s one reason some people work better in coffee shops or study halls.

Reward yourself with something fun when you’re done.

• For example, you could watch an episode of your favorite TV show, play a game you like, or call up a friend.

Supercharge Your Studying with this Expert Series

Expert Q&A

Reader Videos

• Try mindful meditation to help you focus and relax. [21] X Trustworthy Source Greater Good Magazine Journal published by UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center, which uses scientific research to promote happier living Go to source Look for mindful meditation videos online or use an app like Calm or Smiling Mind to help you practice. The more you practice, the easier it’ll be to use your mindfulness skills when you need them—like when you’re doing homework. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

• Take detailed notes in class to help you. If you are able to, type on the computer rather than handwrite (it won't make your hand ache, and it's faster, so long as you don't get distracted). Also, don't wear your most casual clothes for homework, as this will relax you and will make you focus less. Don't look at how much more you have to do; look at what you've done already, as this will make your assignments seem less daunting.
• I used to have some trouble focusing on homework because I would always try to watch YouTube while doing it. It helped me to set a timer for 20 or so minutes and work on homework. Then I would take a 10 minute break. It helped me do homework without frying my brain.
• When rewarding yourself, don't reward yourself with television or games. Sometimes it'll turn into procrastination. Instead, reward yourself with small stretches or a favorite snack.
• If you need to use the bathroom or anything while you are working, assign a number of questions that you have to finish to use the bathroom. This will make you want to work harder!
• Put your phone on airplane mode. This will mute your phone and you will have to manually put it back to regular mode. Only switch it off when you're done with all your work.
• If you have something that you seriously don't want to do, take small 5-minute breaks between steps. This will calm your stress and help you concentrate more.

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/movement-and-learning/
• ↑ https://www.sacap.edu.za/blog/applied-psychology/how-to-concentrate-on-studies/
• ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/focused.html
• ↑ https://www.commonsense.org/education/articles/5-ways-to-help-students-manage-digital-distractions-and-stay-on-track
• ↑ https://today.uconn.edu/2015/07/multitasking-increases-study-time-lowers-grades/#
• ↑ https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/tips-for-helping-your-child-focus-and-concentrate
• ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_to_focus_a_wandering_mind
• ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/learning-thinking-differences/child-learning-disabilities/add-adhd/how-to-improve-focus-in-kids
• ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/learning-thinking-differences/child-learning-disabilities/distractibility-inattention/child-trouble-focusing
• ↑ https://www.oxford-royale.com/articles/10-ways-fun-study/
• ↑ https://www.washburn.edu/academics/center-student-success/student-success-collaborative/Navigate-Study-Buddies.pdf
• ↑ https://time.com/3518053/perfect-break/
• ↑ https://www.uindy.edu/studentcounseling/files/studyingfromhomeduringcoronavirusdukekunshanu.pdf
• ↑ https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20210114-why-youre-more-creative-in-coffee-shops
• ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_to_practice_mindfulness_throughout_your_work_day

About This Article

To concentrate on your homework, start by settling into a quiet place and putting your phone away so it's not a distraction. Then, tackle your hardest or most time-consuming homework assignments first to get them out of the way. Try to finish each task before moving onto something else since jumping between assignments can disrupt your focus. Also, take 5-minute breaks every 30 minutes so your homework doesn't feel endless and you have something to look forward to. To learn how to stay motivated while doing your homework, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, how to do homework: 15 expert tips and tricks.

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Everyone struggles with homework sometimes, but if getting your homework done has become a chronic issue for you, then you may need a little extra help. That’s why we’ve written this article all about how to do homework. Once you’re finished reading it, you’ll know how to do homework (and have tons of new ways to motivate yourself to do homework)!

We’ve broken this article down into a few major sections. You’ll find:

• A diagnostic test to help you figure out why you’re struggling with homework
• A discussion of the four major homework problems students face, along with expert tips for addressing them
• A bonus section with tips for how to do homework fast

By the end of this article, you’ll be prepared to tackle whatever homework assignments your teachers throw at you .

So let’s get started!

How to Do Homework: Figure Out Your Struggles 

Sometimes it feels like everything is standing between you and getting your homework done. But the truth is, most people only have one or two major roadblocks that are keeping them from getting their homework done well and on time. 

The best way to figure out how to get motivated to do homework starts with pinpointing the issues that are affecting your ability to get your assignments done. That’s why we’ve developed a short quiz to help you identify the areas where you’re struggling. 

Take the quiz below and record your answers on your phone or on a scrap piece of paper. Keep in mind there are no wrong answers! 

1. You’ve just been assigned an essay in your English class that’s due at the end of the week. What’s the first thing you do?

A. Keep it in mind, even though you won’t start it until the day before it’s due  B. Open up your planner. You’ve got to figure out when you’ll write your paper since you have band practice, a speech tournament, and your little sister’s dance recital this week, too.  C. Groan out loud. Another essay? You could barely get yourself to write the last one!  D. Start thinking about your essay topic, which makes you think about your art project that’s due the same day, which reminds you that your favorite artist might have just posted to Instagram...so you better check your feed right now. 

2. Your mom asked you to pick up your room before she gets home from work. You’ve just gotten home from school. You decide you’ll tackle your chores: 

A. Five minutes before your mom walks through the front door. As long as it gets done, who cares when you start?  B. As soon as you get home from your shift at the local grocery store.  C. After you give yourself a 15-minute pep talk about how you need to get to work.  D. You won’t get it done. Between texts from your friends, trying to watch your favorite Netflix show, and playing with your dog, you just lost track of time! 

3. You’ve signed up to wash dogs at the Humane Society to help earn money for your senior class trip. You: 

A. Show up ten minutes late. You put off leaving your house until the last minute, then got stuck in unexpected traffic on the way to the shelter.  B. Have to call and cancel at the last minute. You forgot you’d already agreed to babysit your cousin and bake cupcakes for tomorrow’s bake sale.  C. Actually arrive fifteen minutes early with extra brushes and bandanas you picked up at the store. You’re passionate about animals, so you’re excited to help out! D. Show up on time, but only get three dogs washed. You couldn’t help it: you just kept getting distracted by how cute they were!

4. You have an hour of downtime, so you decide you’re going to watch an episode of The Great British Baking Show. You: 

A. Scroll through your social media feeds for twenty minutes before hitting play, which means you’re not able to finish the whole episode. Ugh! You really wanted to see who was sent home!  B. Watch fifteen minutes until you remember you’re supposed to pick up your sister from band practice before heading to your part-time job. No GBBO for you!  C. You finish one episode, then decide to watch another even though you’ve got SAT studying to do. It’s just more fun to watch people make scones.  D. Start the episode, but only catch bits and pieces of it because you’re reading Twitter, cleaning out your backpack, and eating a snack at the same time.

5. Your teacher asks you to stay after class because you’ve missed turning in two homework assignments in a row. When she asks you what’s wrong, you say: 

A. You planned to do your assignments during lunch, but you ran out of time. You decided it would be better to turn in nothing at all than submit unfinished work.  B. You really wanted to get the assignments done, but between your extracurriculars, family commitments, and your part-time job, your homework fell through the cracks.  C. You have a hard time psyching yourself to tackle the assignments. You just can’t seem to find the motivation to work on them once you get home.  D. You tried to do them, but you had a hard time focusing. By the time you realized you hadn’t gotten anything done, it was already time to turn them in. 

Like we said earlier, there are no right or wrong answers to this quiz (though your results will be better if you answered as honestly as possible). Here’s how your answers break down: 

• If your answers were mostly As, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is procrastination. 
• If your answers were mostly Bs, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is time management. 
• If your answers were mostly Cs, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is motivation. 
• If your answers were mostly Ds, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is getting distracted. 

Now that you’ve identified why you’re having a hard time getting your homework done, we can help you figure out how to fix it! Scroll down to find your core problem area to learn more about how you can start to address it. 

And one more thing: you’re really struggling with homework, it’s a good idea to read through every section below. You may find some additional tips that will help make homework less intimidating. 

How to Do Homework When You’re a Procrastinator  

Merriam Webster defines “procrastinate” as “to put off intentionally and habitually.” In other words, procrastination is when you choose to do something at the last minute on a regular basis. If you’ve ever found yourself pulling an all-nighter, trying to finish an assignment between periods, or sprinting to turn in a paper minutes before a deadline, you’ve experienced the effects of procrastination. 

If you’re a chronic procrastinator, you’re in good company. In fact, one study found that 70% to 95% of undergraduate students procrastinate when it comes to doing their homework. Unfortunately, procrastination can negatively impact your grades. Researchers have found that procrastination can lower your grade on an assignment by as much as five points ...which might not sound serious until you realize that can mean the difference between a B- and a C+. 

Procrastination can also negatively affect your health by increasing your stress levels , which can lead to other health conditions like insomnia, a weakened immune system, and even heart conditions. Getting a handle on procrastination can not only improve your grades, it can make you feel better, too! 

The big thing to understand about procrastination is that it’s not the result of laziness. Laziness is defined as being “disinclined to activity or exertion.” In other words, being lazy is all about doing nothing. But a s this Psychology Today article explains , procrastinators don’t put things off because they don’t want to work. Instead, procrastinators tend to postpone tasks they don’t want to do in favor of tasks that they perceive as either more important or more fun. Put another way, procrastinators want to do things...as long as it’s not their homework! 

3 Tips f or Conquering Procrastination 

Because putting off doing homework is a common problem, there are lots of good tactics for addressing procrastination. Keep reading for our three expert tips that will get your homework habits back on track in no time. 

#1: Create a Reward System

Like we mentioned earlier, procrastination happens when you prioritize other activities over getting your homework done. Many times, this happens because homework...well, just isn’t enjoyable. But you can add some fun back into the process by rewarding yourself for getting your work done. 

Here’s what we mean: let’s say you decide that every time you get your homework done before the day it’s due, you’ll give yourself a point. For every five points you earn, you’ll treat yourself to your favorite dessert: a chocolate cupcake! Now you have an extra (delicious!) incentive to motivate you to leave procrastination in the dust. 

If you’re not into cupcakes, don’t worry. Your reward can be anything that motivates you . Maybe it’s hanging out with your best friend or an extra ten minutes of video game time. As long as you’re choosing something that makes homework worth doing, you’ll be successful. 

#2: Have a Homework Accountability Partner 

If you’re having trouble getting yourself to start your homework ahead of time, it may be a good idea to call in reinforcements . Find a friend or classmate you can trust and explain to them that you’re trying to change your homework habits. Ask them if they’d be willing to text you to make sure you’re doing your homework and check in with you once a week to see if you’re meeting your anti-procrastination goals. 

Sharing your goals can make them feel more real, and an accountability partner can help hold you responsible for your decisions. For example, let’s say you’re tempted to put off your science lab write-up until the morning before it’s due. But you know that your accountability partner is going to text you about it tomorrow...and you don’t want to fess up that you haven’t started your assignment. A homework accountability partner can give you the extra support and incentive you need to keep your homework habits on track. 

#3: Create Your Own Due Dates 

If you’re a life-long procrastinator, you might find that changing the habit is harder than you expected. In that case, you might try using procrastination to your advantage! If you just can’t seem to stop doing your work at the last minute, try setting your own due dates for assignments that range from a day to a week before the assignment is actually due. 

Here’s what we mean. Let’s say you have a math worksheet that’s been assigned on Tuesday and is due on Friday. In your planner, you can write down the due date as Thursday instead. You may still put off your homework assignment until the last minute...but in this case, the “last minute” is a day before the assignment’s real due date . This little hack can trick your procrastination-addicted brain into planning ahead! 

If you feel like Kevin Hart in this meme, then our tips for doing homework when you're busy are for you. 

How to Do Homework When You’re too Busy

If you’re aiming to go to a top-tier college , you’re going to have a full plate. Because college admissions is getting more competitive, it’s important that you’re maintaining your grades , studying hard for your standardized tests , and participating in extracurriculars so your application stands out. A packed schedule can get even more hectic once you add family obligations or a part-time job to the mix. 

If you feel like you’re being pulled in a million directions at once, you’re not alone. Recent research has found that stress—and more severe stress-related conditions like anxiety and depression— are a major problem for high school students . In fact, one study from the American Psychological Association found that during the school year, students’ stress levels are higher than those of the adults around them. 

For students, homework is a major contributor to their overall stress levels . Many high schoolers have multiple hours of homework every night , and figuring out how to fit it into an already-packed schedule can seem impossible. 

3 Tips for Fitting Homework Into Your Busy Schedule

While it might feel like you have literally no time left in your schedule, there are still ways to make sure you’re able to get your homework done and meet your other commitments. Here are our expert homework tips for even the busiest of students. 

#1: Make a Prioritized To-Do List 

You probably already have a to-do list to keep yourself on track. The next step is to prioritize the items on your to-do list so you can see what items need your attention right away. 

Here’s how it works: at the beginning of each day, sit down and make a list of all the items you need to get done before you go to bed. This includes your homework, but it should also take into account any practices, chores, events, or job shifts you may have. Once you get everything listed out, it’s time to prioritize them using the labels A, B, and C. Here’s what those labels mean:

• A Tasks : tasks that have to get done—like showing up at work or turning in an assignment—get an A. 
• B Tasks : these are tasks that you would like to get done by the end of the day but aren’t as time sensitive. For example, studying for a test you have next week could be a B-level task. It’s still important, but it doesn’t have to be done right away.
• C Tasks: these are tasks that aren’t very important and/or have no real consequences if you don’t get them done immediately. For instance, if you’re hoping to clean out your closet but it’s not an assigned chore from your parents, you could label that to-do item with a C.

Prioritizing your to-do list helps you visualize which items need your immediate attention, and which items you can leave for later. A prioritized to-do list ensures that you’re spending your time efficiently and effectively, which helps you make room in your schedule for homework. So even though you might really want to start making decorations for Homecoming (a B task), you’ll know that finishing your reading log (an A task) is more important. 

#2: Use a Planner With Time Labels

Your planner is probably packed with notes, events, and assignments already. (And if you’re not using a planner, it’s time to start!) But planners can do more for you than just remind you when an assignment is due. If you’re using a planner with time labels, it can help you visualize how you need to spend your day.

A planner with time labels breaks your day down into chunks, and you assign tasks to each chunk of time. For example, you can make a note of your class schedule with assignments, block out time to study, and make sure you know when you need to be at practice. Once you know which tasks take priority, you can add them to any empty spaces in your day. 

Planning out how you spend your time not only helps you use it wisely, it can help you feel less overwhelmed, too . We’re big fans of planners that include a task list ( like this one ) or have room for notes ( like this one ). 

#3: Set Reminders on Your Phone 

If you need a little extra nudge to make sure you’re getting your homework done on time, it’s a good idea to set some reminders on your phone. You don’t need a fancy app, either. You can use your alarm app to have it go off at specific times throughout the day to remind you to do your homework. This works especially well if you have a set homework time scheduled. So if you’ve decided you’re doing homework at 6:00 pm, you can set an alarm to remind you to bust out your books and get to work. 

If you use your phone as your planner, you may have the option to add alerts, emails, or notifications to scheduled events . Many calendar apps, including the one that comes with your phone, have built-in reminders that you can customize to meet your needs. So if you block off time to do your homework from 4:30 to 6:00 pm, you can set a reminder that will pop up on your phone when it’s time to get started. 

This dog isn't judging your lack of motivation...but your teacher might. Keep reading for tips to help you motivate yourself to do your homework.

How to Do Homework When You’re Unmotivated 

At first glance, it may seem like procrastination and being unmotivated are the same thing. After all, both of these issues usually result in you putting off your homework until the very last minute. 

But there’s one key difference: many procrastinators are working, they’re just prioritizing work differently. They know they’re going to start their homework...they’re just going to do it later. 

Conversely, people who are unmotivated to do homework just can’t find the willpower to tackle their assignments. Procrastinators know they’ll at least attempt the homework at the last minute, whereas people who are unmotivated struggle with convincing themselves to do it at a ll. For procrastinators, the stress comes from the inevitable time crunch. For unmotivated people, the stress comes from trying to convince themselves to do something they don’t want to do in the first place. 

Here are some common reasons students are unmotivated in doing homework : 

• Assignments are too easy, too hard, or seemingly pointless 
• Students aren’t interested in (or passionate about) the subject matter
• Students are intimidated by the work and/or feels like they don’t understand the assignment 
• Homework isn’t fun, and students would rather spend their time on things that they enjoy 

To sum it up: people who lack motivation to do their homework are more likely to not do it at all, or to spend more time worrying about doing their homework than...well, actually doing it.

3 Tips for How to Get Motivated to Do Homework

The key to getting homework done when you’re unmotivated is to figure out what does motivate you, then apply those things to homework. It sounds tricky...but it’s pretty simple once you get the hang of it! Here are our three expert tips for motivating yourself to do your homework. 

#1: Use Incremental Incentives

When you’re not motivated, it’s important to give yourself small rewards to stay focused on finishing the task at hand. The trick is to keep the incentives small and to reward yourself often. For example, maybe you’re reading a good book in your free time. For every ten minutes you spend on your homework, you get to read five pages of your book. Like we mentioned earlier, make sure you’re choosing a reward that works for you! 

So why does this technique work? Using small rewards more often allows you to experience small wins for getting your work done. Every time you make it to one of your tiny reward points, you get to celebrate your success, which gives your brain a boost of dopamine . Dopamine helps you stay motivated and also creates a feeling of satisfaction when you complete your homework !  

#2: Form a Homework Group 

If you’re having trouble motivating yourself, it’s okay to turn to others for support. Creating a homework group can help with this. Bring together a group of your friends or classmates, and pick one time a week where you meet and work on homework together. You don’t have to be in the same class, or even taking the same subjects— the goal is to encourage one another to start (and finish!) your assignments. 

Another added benefit of a homework group is that you can help one another if you’re struggling to understand the material covered in your classes. This is especially helpful if your lack of motivation comes from being intimidated by your assignments. Asking your friends for help may feel less scary than talking to your teacher...and once you get a handle on the material, your homework may become less frightening, too. 

#3: Change Up Your Environment 

If you find that you’re totally unmotivated, it may help if you find a new place to do your homework. For example, if you’ve been struggling to get your homework done at home, try spending an extra hour in the library after school instead. The change of scenery can limit your distractions and give you the energy you need to get your work done. 

If you’re stuck doing homework at home, you can still use this tip. For instance, maybe you’ve always done your homework sitting on your bed. Try relocating somewhere else, like your kitchen table, for a few weeks. You may find that setting up a new “homework spot” in your house gives you a motivational lift and helps you get your work done. 

Social media can be a huge problem when it comes to doing homework. We have advice for helping you unplug and regain focus.

How to Do Homework When You’re Easily Distracted

We live in an always-on world, and there are tons of things clamoring for our attention. From friends and family to pop culture and social media, it seems like there’s always something (or someone!) distracting us from the things we need to do.

The 24/7 world we live in has affected our ability to focus on tasks for prolonged periods of time. Research has shown that over the past decade, an average person’s attention span has gone from 12 seconds to eight seconds . And when we do lose focus, i t takes people a long time to get back on task . One study found that it can take as long as 23 minutes to get back to work once we’ve been distracte d. No wonder it can take hours to get your homework done! 

3 Tips to Improve Your Focus

If you have a hard time focusing when you’re doing your homework, it’s a good idea to try and eliminate as many distractions as possible. Here are three expert tips for blocking out the noise so you can focus on getting your homework done. 

#1: Create a Distraction-Free Environment

Pick a place where you’ll do your homework every day, and make it as distraction-free as possible. Try to find a location where there won’t be tons of noise, and limit your access to screens while you’re doing your homework. Put together a focus-oriented playlist (or choose one on your favorite streaming service), and put your headphones on while you work. 

You may find that other people, like your friends and family, are your biggest distraction. If that’s the case, try setting up some homework boundaries. Let them know when you’ll be working on homework every day, and ask them if they’ll help you keep a quiet environment. They’ll be happy to lend a hand! 

#2: Limit Your Access to Technology 

We know, we know...this tip isn’t fun, but it does work. For homework that doesn’t require a computer, like handouts or worksheets, it’s best to put all your technology away . Turn off your television, put your phone and laptop in your backpack, and silence notifications on any wearable tech you may be sporting. If you listen to music while you work, that’s fine...but make sure you have a playlist set up so you’re not shuffling through songs once you get started on your homework. 

If your homework requires your laptop or tablet, it can be harder to limit your access to distractions. But it’s not impossible! T here are apps you can download that will block certain websites while you’re working so that you’re not tempted to scroll through Twitter or check your Facebook feed. Silence notifications and text messages on your computer, and don’t open your email account unless you absolutely have to. And if you don’t need access to the internet to complete your assignments, turn off your WiFi. Cutting out the online chatter is a great way to make sure you’re getting your homework done. 

#3: Set a Timer (the Pomodoro Technique)

Have you ever heard of the Pomodoro technique ? It’s a productivity hack that uses a timer to help you focus!

Here’s how it works: first, set a timer for 25 minutes. This is going to be your work time. During this 25 minutes, all you can do is work on whatever homework assignment you have in front of you. No email, no text messaging, no phone calls—just homework. When that timer goes off, you get to take a 5 minute break. Every time you go through one of these cycles, it’s called a “pomodoro.” For every four pomodoros you complete, you can take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes.

The pomodoro technique works through a combination of boundary setting and rewards. First, it gives you a finite amount of time to focus, so you know that you only have to work really hard for 25 minutes. Once you’ve done that, you’re rewarded with a short break where you can do whatever you want. Additionally, tracking how many pomodoros you complete can help you see how long you’re really working on your homework. (Once you start using our focus tips, you may find it doesn’t take as long as you thought!)

Two Bonus Tips for How to Do Homework Fast

Even if you’re doing everything right, there will be times when you just need to get your homework done as fast as possible. (Why do teachers always have projects due in the same week? The world may never know.)

The problem with speeding through homework is that it’s easy to make mistakes. While turning in an assignment is always better than not submitting anything at all, you want to make sure that you’re not compromising quality for speed. Simply put, the goal is to get your homework done quickly and still make a good grade on the assignment! 

Here are our two bonus tips for getting a decent grade on your homework assignments , even when you’re in a time crunch. 

#1: Do the Easy Parts First 

This is especially true if you’re working on a handout with multiple questions. Before you start working on the assignment, read through all the questions and problems. As you do, make a mark beside the questions you think are “easy” to answer . 

Once you’ve finished going through the whole assignment, you can answer these questions first. Getting the easy questions out of the way as quickly as possible lets you spend more time on the trickier portions of your homework, which will maximize your assignment grade. 

(Quick note: this is also a good strategy to use on timed assignments and tests, like the SAT and the ACT !) 

#2: Pay Attention in Class 

Homework gets a lot easier when you’re actively learning the material. Teachers aren’t giving you homework because they’re mean or trying to ruin your weekend... it’s because they want you to really understand the course material. Homework is designed to reinforce what you’re already learning in class so you’ll be ready to tackle harder concepts later.

When you pay attention in class, ask questions, and take good notes, you’re absorbing the information you’ll need to succeed on your homework assignments. (You’re stuck in class anyway, so you might as well make the most of it!) Not only will paying attention in class make your homework less confusing, it will also help it go much faster, too.

What’s Next?

If you’re looking to improve your productivity beyond homework, a good place to begin is with time management. After all, we only have so much time in a day...so it’s important to get the most out of it! To get you started, check out this list of the 12 best time management techniques that you can start using today.

You may have read this article because homework struggles have been affecting your GPA. Now that you’re on the path to homework success, it’s time to start being proactive about raising your grades. This article teaches you everything you need to know about raising your GPA so you can

Now you know how to get motivated to do homework...but what about your study habits? Studying is just as critical to getting good grades, and ultimately getting into a good college . We can teach you how to study bette r in high school. (We’ve also got tons of resources to help you study for your ACT and SAT exams , too!)

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

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7 Tips for How to Focus on Homework

Homework can feel like a relentless tide, constantly coming in no matter how hard you try to keep up. It’s a familiar struggle for many students, a demographic often juggling multiple responsibilities alongside their academic pursuits. In this article, we’ll delve into practical strategies to enhance your ability to focus on homework, transforming it from a daunting task into a manageable part of your daily routine.

The key to success in homework is not just hard work but smart work – and a significant part of that is learning how to focus on homework effectively. We’ll explore various aspects of this challenge, from creating a conducive study environment to incorporating dietary considerations that boost your concentration. Understanding and implementing these strategies can turn the tide in your favor.

In the following sections, we will cover eight crucial areas:

• Understanding the challenge
• Setting up your environment
• Mastering time management
• Preparing mentally
• Taking effective breaks
• Focusing on nutrition
• Integrating physical activity
• Using technological aids

Each section is designed to provide actionable advice you can apply immediately.

So, let’s embark on this journey together to unlock your full potential in managing and excelling at your homework tasks. Prepare to dive deep into the world of productivity and discover how a slight shift in approach can significantly improve your academic life.

Understanding the Challenge

Focusing on homework is a skill that many students struggle to master. The digital age has brought countless distractions, social media notifications, and text messages from group chats. It’s not just about willpower; it’s about understanding the nature of these distractions and how they impact our ability to concentrate. A study by Microsoft suggests that the average attention span has significantly decreased in recent years, making focusing even more daunting ( Time ).

The challenge doesn’t end with external distractions; internal factors like stress, fatigue, and lack of interest also play a significant role. When homework feels overwhelming or uninteresting, it becomes even more challenging to devote your full attention to it. The key is to recognize these obstacles and find ways to overcome them.

At this point, it’s not about working harder but smarter. By acknowledging the difficulties and understanding their roots, we can begin to develop effective strategies to focus on homework. This recognition is the first step towards turning the tide in our academic endeavors.

With this understanding, we’re now ready to delve into creating a conducive environment for homework, which is our next critical step in developing laser-sharp focus.

Creating a Conducive Environment

The environment where you study can make a substantial difference in your ability to focus on homework. Creating a space that minimizes distractions and maximizes your comfort and productivity is crucial. A study space should be quiet, well-lit, and free from clutter – a sanctuary where focus is the mainstay.

Ergonomics plays a vital role in maintaining focus. A comfortable chair and desk at the right height can prevent discomfort and keep you concentrated for extended periods. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill provides excellent tips on setting up an ergonomic study space ( UNC Ergonomics ). Remember, comfort is vital, but too much comfort, like studying in bed, can lead to drowsiness.

Another aspect of creating a conducive environment is the deliberate reduction of digital distractions. This might mean turning off smartphone notifications or using apps that block social media during study hours. It’s about creating a space that signals your brain that it’s time to focus on homework.

Lastly, personalizing your study space with elements that boost your mood, like plants or motivational quotes, can also help maintain a positive attitude towards homework. An environment that aligns with your preferences can be a powerful tool for enhancing focus.

With the right environment set up, it’s time to look at how effective time management can further help us focus on homework. This will be covered in the next section.

Time Management Techniques

Effective time management is a critical component when trying to focus on homework. It’s not just about allocating time; it’s about using it wisely. A well-structured plan can prevent the feeling of being overwhelmed and help maintain a clear focus on the task.

The Pomodoro Technique is a popular time management method among students. It involves breaking down work into intervals, traditionally 25 minutes long, separated by short breaks. This technique not only helps in maintaining focus but also ensures regular rest, preventing burnout. Tools like the TomatoTimer (accessible at TomatoTimer ) can be used to implement this technique effectively.

Additionally, setting specific goals for each study session can significantly enhance productivity. Instead of a vague aim like ‘work on math,’ set clear objectives like ‘complete five algebra problems.’ This approach gives a clear direction and a sense of accomplishment upon completion.

It’s also important to prioritize tasks. Start with assignments that are due soonest or tackle the most challenging tasks when your energy levels are highest. Tools like Trello or Asana can help organize and prioritize homework tasks (More on these at Trello and Asana ).

By implementing these time management techniques, students can make their study sessions more productive and less stressful. With a solid plan, it’s much easier to focus on homework.

In the next section, we’ll explore how mental preparation is crucial in focusing on homework, moving beyond physical and logistical aspects.

Mental Preparation to Focus on Homework

Mental preparation is just as crucial as the physical and logistical aspects of focusing on homework. The right mindset can transform homework from a chore into a meaningful, engaging activity. Cultivating a positive attitude towards studying enhances focus and improves the quality of learning.

Begin by setting a clear intention for your study session. This could be as simple as telling yourself, “I will focus on this task for the next 30 minutes without distractions.” Such affirmations can prime your brain for focused work. Mindfulness practices can also be beneficial in this regard. Engaging in a brief period of meditation before starting homework can clear your mind and reduce anxiety. The Headspace blog offers insights on how mindfulness can improve focus ( Headspace on Mindfulness ).

Another aspect of mental preparation is dealing with procrastination and negative thoughts. Understanding the root cause of procrastination can be vital to overcoming it. Often, it’s not laziness but fear, perfectionism, or lack of interest that holds us back. Tackling these underlying issues can significantly improve your ability to focus on homework.

Lastly, visualizing success can be a powerful tool. Imagine completing your homework efficiently and reaping the rewards of your hard work. This visualization can create a positive feedback loop, motivating you to achieve your vision.

With our minds prepared and ready, we can now explore the importance of taking breaks, which is not just a respite but a strategy to enhance focus on homework.

The Importance of Taking Breaks

Taking breaks is an integral part of maintaining focus on homework. Contrary to what some may believe, breaks are not a sign of laziness but a necessary component of effective studying. Strategic breaks can rejuvenate the mind, enhance creativity, and prevent burnout.

The science backs this up. A study by the University of Illinois found that brief diversions from a task can dramatically improve one’s ability to focus on that task for prolonged periods ( University of Illinois Study ). Short, regular breaks can significantly boost your concentration and productivity.

What constitutes an effective break? It could be a physical activity like a quick walk, stretching exercises, or even just stepping outside for a few minutes to get fresh air. The idea is to engage in an activity different from studying to give your brain a chance to reset. It’s essential, however, to avoid activities that might lead to procrastination, like scrolling through social media.

Timing is also crucial. The Pomodoro Technique, mentioned earlier, suggests a 5-minute break after every 25-minute work session. However, finding a rhythm that works best for you is essential. Some may prefer longer work sessions with longer breaks.

After a break, you often return to your homework with renewed energy and a clearer mind, ready to focus more effectively. In our next section, we will examine how nutritional factors affect your ability to focus on homework.

Nutritional Factors to Focus on Homework

Nutrition plays a pivotal role in how well you can focus on homework. What you eat can either boost your brainpower or leave you feeling sluggish and distracted. A balanced diet, rich in brain-boosting nutrients, can significantly enhance cognitive function and concentration.

Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like fish, nuts, and seeds, are known for their brain-health benefits. They enhance memory and mood, which are vital for staying focused on homework. Complex carbohydrates, found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, provide a steady energy supply, unlike the short bursts that come from sugary snacks. The Harvard School of Public Health provides more information on brain foods ( Harvard School of Public Health on Brain Foods ).

Hydration is another critical factor. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased attention span. Ensure you drink enough water throughout your study sessions to keep your brain functioning optimally.

It’s also important to be mindful of your caffeine intake. While beverages like coffee and tea can improve concentration in the short term, excessive consumption can lead to jitteriness and disrupt your ability to focus. Moderation is key. Having Brain Brew   can help with the tea providing caffeine and l-theanine for a relaxed focus.

Lastly, the timing of meals can affect your focus. Heavy meals right before a study session can lead to drowsiness. Eating light and nutritious meals or snacks can keep your energy levels balanced.

Understanding these nutritional factors sets the stage for enhanced focus on homework. Next, we will discuss the role of physical activity in boosting focus.

Related: 5 Nootropic Teas for Focus and Memory

Physical Activity and Focus

Physical activity is often overlooked when discussing strategies to focus on homework, yet it’s a critical component. Exercise not only improves physical health but also significantly impacts cognitive function and concentration.

Regular physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain, which enhances cognitive abilities and improves mood. Even short bursts of exercise, like a brisk walk or a few minutes of stretching, can invigorate the mind and improve focus. A study from the University of British Columbia highlights that regular aerobic exercise boosts the size of the hippocampus, a brain area involved in verbal memory and learning ( University of British Columbia Study ).

Incorporating exercise into your daily routine doesn’t have to be daunting. Simple activities like jogging, cycling, or even yoga can be effective. The key is to find an activity you enjoy, making it more likely that you’ll stick with it.

Furthermore, exercise can be a great way to break up long periods of studying. Engaging in physical activity during a break can leave you feeling refreshed and ready to focus on homework once you return to your desk.

Incorporating regular physical activity into your lifestyle can have long-term benefits for your overall focus and productivity, not just for homework but in various aspects of life.

As we conclude our discussion on physical activity, we move to our final subsection, “Technological Aids for Focusing,” where we will explore how specific technologies can assist in focusing on homework.

Related:  Top 10 ADHD Productivity Tools

Technological Aids for Focusing

In an era where technology is often seen as a distraction, it can also be a powerful ally in helping students focus on homework. There are several apps and tools designed to enhance concentration and productivity, turning the digital realm from a hindrance into a helper.

One of the most popular categories of these tools are focus apps. These apps, like Forest or Freedom, help minimize distractions by blocking access to tempting websites and apps during your study sessions. Forest, for instance, gamifies the experience by growing a virtual tree as long as you stay focused ( Forest App ). Freedom allows you to block distracting websites and apps across all your devices ( Freedom App ).

Another helpful category is time management apps. Tools like Trello and Asana, as mentioned earlier, can be invaluable for keeping track of assignments and deadlines, ensuring you’re focusing on the right task at the right time.

Moreover, there are apps like Evernote or Microsoft OneNote that assist in efficiently organizing notes and research. These digital notebooks can be handy for students who juggle multiple subjects and need a streamlined method to manage their study materials.

It’s important, however, to use technology judiciously. The goal is to leverage these tools to enhance focus on homework, not to add another layer of digital distraction. Careful selection and disciplined use of these aids can significantly affect your ability to concentrate and be productive.

With an understanding of how technology can aid in focusing on homework, we conclude the main body of our blog post. We will now move to the conclusion, summarizing our key points and introducing Brain Brew, the nootropic tea designed to help with focus.

Summarizing How to Focus on Homework

We’ve navigated through various strategies to help you focus on homework, from creating the right environment and managing your time effectively to understanding the role of nutrition and physical activity in enhancing cognitive function. Each of these strategies plays a crucial role in developing a focused and productive approach to your academic work.

Remember, focusing on homework is a skill that gets better with practice. By implementing the techniques discussed, such as minimizing distractions, setting clear goals, taking regular breaks, and utilizing technological aids wisely, you can significantly improve your ability to concentrate. It’s about creating a balanced approach that includes mental preparation, physical well-being, and a supportive environment.

As we wrap up, it’s important to highlight that sometimes, we need an extra boost to help us maintain that razor-sharp focus. This is where Brain Brew comes into play. Brain Brew is a specially formulated nootropic focus tea that supports cognitive function, enhances concentration, and provides a steady flow of energy without the jitters commonly associated with caffeine-heavy drinks.

Incorporating Brain Brew into your study routine can give you that extra edge in maintaining focus on homework. Made with natural ingredients known for their cognitive-enhancing properties, it’s the perfect companion for those long study sessions where you need to stay alert and focused.

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A Clear Mindset for Clear Assignments: How to Focus on Homework

Discover the secrets on how to focus on homework by beating social media temptation and sidestepping distractions like a pro.

Created by:

August 4, 2023

When it comes to completing homework assignments, maintaining focus can be a daunting task. The allure of social media, the temptation to procrastinate, and the constant barrage of distractions can make it challenging to stay on track.

However, with a clear mindset and effective strategies, you can overcome these obstacles and make the most of your study time.

In this blog post, we will explore various techniques on how to focus on homework and achieve your academic goals.

Before we dive into the strategies, let's first understand why focusing on homework is crucial and explore some common distractions that students face.

The Benefits of Concentrating on Homework Assignments

Homework serves as a vital extension of classroom learning. It allows you to reinforce concepts, develop critical thinking skills, and deepen your understanding of the subject matter. By focusing on your assignments, you not only complete them efficiently but also gain valuable knowledge and skills. Additionally, effective time management and concentration during homework time can lead to better grades and improved overall academic performance.

Common Distractions That Students Face While Doing Homework

In today's digital age, distractions lurk around every corner, vying for our attention. When it comes to homework, these distractions can significantly hamper your ability to concentrate. Social media notifications, incoming messages, the appeal of video streaming platforms, and the endless rabbit holes of the internet can divert your attention and derail your productivity.

Now that we understand the importance of maintaining focus during homework, let's explore some strategies to help you prepare for productive study sessions .

Preparing for Homework

Creating a Study Environment

Creating an ideal study environment plays a crucial role in fostering concentration and productivity. Find a quiet and well-lit area where you can focus without interruptions. Clear your study area of any unnecessary clutter and ensure you have all the materials you need readily available. A clean and organized environment can contribute to a clear mindset and facilitate efficient studying.

Organizing Study Space

Having an organized study space can have a significant impact on your ability to concentrate. Keep your study materials neatly arranged and easily accessible. Use folders, binders, or digital tools to organize your notes, textbooks, and assignments. When everything is in its place, you can quickly locate what you need, minimizing time wasted searching for materials.

Minimizing Distractions

Distractions are the arch-nemesis of focus. To minimize their impact, it's important to identify and mitigate potential distractions in your study environment. Consider silencing your phone or using a dedicated app like Opal, the #1 screen time management app, to manage and monitor your device usage. Opal's innovative features can help you regain control over your screen time and stay on track with your assignments.

Now that your study space is optimized and distractions are minimized with a few easy changes, let's explore techniques to help you stay focused during your homework sessions.

Using the Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that can enhance your productivity and maintain focus. It involves breaking your study time into intervals, usually, 25 minutes in length, called "Pomodoros." After each Pomodoro, take a short break of 5 minutes. Every four Pomodoros, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. This technique allows you to work in short bursts, preventing burnout and keeping your mind fresh.

Setting Goals and Prioritizing Tasks

Setting clear goals and prioritizing tasks can provide a sense of direction and purpose to your homework sessions. Understand the importance of setting goals and identify the most important tasks that need your immediate attention.

Create a to-do list with specific and achievable goals, ensuring that you tackle the most crucial assignments first such as Math homework. This approach helps you stay motivated and focused, as you can track your progress and experience the satisfaction of crossing off one task at a time.

Eliminating Procrastination

Procrastination is the enemy of productivity , and we have all fallen victim to its draw at some point. Understanding procrastination and identifying your triggers can help you combat this productivity killer.

Procrastination often arises from feelings of overwhelm, fear of failure, or a lack of interest in the task at hand. Recognize these triggers and develop strategies to overcome them. Break your assignments into smaller, manageable tasks, and reward yourself for completing each one. By taking small steps and staying motivated, you can conquer procrastination and maintain focus.

Staying Focused During Homework

Now that you've laid the groundwork for productive study sessions, let's explore techniques to help you maintain focus while doing homework.

Active Reading Techniques

Active reading techniques can significantly enhance comprehension and focus during your study sessions. Skimming and scanning techniques allow you to quickly gather information from texts, identify key points, and gain an overview of the material. Note-taking enables you to engage with the content actively, aiding memory retention and comprehension. Annotating your textbooks or reading materials with highlights and marginal notes can also help you stay engaged and focused.

Time Management Techniques

Effective time management is a cornerstone of focused sessions and helps complete your homework quicker. Prioritization is key to ensuring you allocate your time wisely. Identify the most important tasks and allocate sufficient time for each. Avoid the temptation to multitask, as it often leads to mind wandering, reduced focus, and diminished productivity. Instead, consider using time-blocking techniques, where you allocate specific time slots for different tasks. This approach helps you maintain focus on one assignment at a time, maximizing your efficiency.

Utilizing Technology

While technology can be a source of distraction, it can also serve as a valuable tool for maintaining focus. Various apps and tools are designed specifically to help students stay on track with their assignments. Apps for focusing, such as Opal or Screen Time , can provide valuable support by managing screen time, blocking distracting websites, and creating a distraction-free mode. By leveraging these technologies wisely, you can harness their power to enhance your focus and productivity.

Maintaining Focus

Staying focused for extended periods can be challenging, so it's essential to incorporate breaks and mindfulness techniques into your study routine.

Taking Breaks

Breaks are not a sign of laziness; they are a necessary component of maintaining focus and preventing mental fatigue. Understand the importance of breaks in maintaining productivity and take effective breaks that rejuvenate your mind. Step away from your study space, engage in physical activity, eat a few healthy snacks, get some fresh air, or indulge in a hobby you enjoy. Use these breaks wisely to recharge and return to your assignments with renewed focus.

Mindfulness Techniques

Mindfulness is a practice that cultivates present-moment awareness and helps you stay engaged with your tasks. Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your study sessions to improve concentration and reduce distractions. Practice deep breathing exercises, listen to classical music, focus on the sensations of studying, and cultivate an attitude of curiosity and non-judgment. By embracing mindfulness, you can bring clarity and intention to your homework sessions.

Managing Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can significantly hamper your ability to concentrate and perform well academically. Understand the impact of stress and anxiety on your focus and implement strategies to manage them effectively. Identify stressors and triggers, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Meditation and breathing exercises can help calm your mind and alleviate anxiety. Taking care of your overall well-being through exercise, adequate sleep and a balanced diet also contributes to reduced stress levels and improved focus.

Staying on Track

While the strategies mentioned above can significantly enhance your ability to focus, there may be times when you require additional support or motivation.

Seeking Help

Recognize when you need help and don't hesitate to reach out to others. Other students, teachers, or family member can provide valuable guidance and support. Collaborating with classmates through study groups or seeking clarification from your instructors can help you overcome challenges and maintain focus. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Seeking help not only benefits your focus but can also be a gateway to a supportive community. One such community that shares your vision for focused productivity is the Opal community.

By joining the Opal community, you gain access to a network of like-minded individuals who are striving for productivity and focus. You can connect with peers who understand the challenges of maintaining concentration and share valuable insights and strategies. Through the Opal platform, you can engage in discussions, exchange tips, and tricks, and find inspiration from others on the same journey.

Rewarding Yourself

Rewarding yourself for your hard work and accomplishments can serve as a powerful motivator. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and choose appropriate rewards that align with your interests and values. Whether it's indulging in a favorite treat, enjoying leisure time, or engaging in a hobby, these rewards reinforce positive habits and create a sense of satisfaction.

Staying Motivated

Motivation is the driving force behind focused and successful homework sessions. Understand what motivates you and tap into those sources of inspiration. Set long-term goals and break them down into smaller milestones. Celebrate each milestone as you achieve it, and use these accomplishments as fuel to keep you moving forward. Stay positive, maintain a growth mindset, and remind yourself of the bigger picture.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining focus while doing homework is a skill that can be developed with practice and a clear mindset. By creating a study environment conducive to concentration, utilizing effective time management techniques, incorporating breaks and mindfulness, and seeking appropriate support, you can enhance your ability to focus and achieve academic success.

Remember, staying focused is not about eliminating all distractions but rather managing them effectively. So, apply these strategies consistently, harness the power of technology tools like Opal, and make the most of your study time. With a clear mindset and focused approach, you can conquer your assignments and pave the way for a successful academic journey.

To make the most out of every day, learn more about how Opal can be your reliable companion in managing screen time and optimizing your focus during homework and beyond.

Now, armed with these strategies, go forth and conquer your assignments with a clear mind and unwavering focus!

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Several people suggested Opal – I tried it out and it does exactly what I need it to do and is much more customizable than Down/Screen Time 💎 👍

I have been using Opal and it has really made me intentional about how and when I use my phone. I'll set a 23 hour timer and literally keep my phone in one room in the house so i don't default to looking at it as a habit (something I did a lot in my first 2 weeks off).

Loving Opal. It's helping me not get super distracted while I'm in a deep work session!

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How to Stay Focused on Homework: 13 Easy Tips

Whether you’re a 15 year old and trying to pass the 10th grade or doing your Master’s degree and trying to complete the required reading, learning how to stay focused on homework is a lifelong skill that can feel boring and painful at times, but is necessary.

We learn to dread homework growing up, viewing it as the thing that gets in the way of our recreational time.

Who wants to be doing math problems when they could be outside playing with their friends?

Who wants to deal with pages of required reading or worry about staying focused when studying when they could be watching the latest bingeworthy shows on Netflix?

I’m not here to argue for or against the necessity of homework itself, but instead that sometimes, doing homework is a part of life.

And if we want to succeed in life, we have to do the homework.

We have to get motivated to write that essay , we have to get motivated to study , and we have to learn to stay focused on our goals .

Staying focused on homework when there are so many other distractions competing for our attention can be difficult, so in this post we’re going to get real, get honest, and talk about how to stay focused on homework even when you’d rather be doing anything else.

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1. See How Fast You Can Get it Done Accurately

Getting your homework done quickly is usually the goal for most people, and while you don’t want to sacrifice accuracy, making a game out of it and seeing how fast you can get your homework done is usually a great way to stay focused on your homework.

There is a theory that we use as much time for tasks as we give ourselves, so it may be that actually you can write a good essay in 2 hours, when normally you would take 6 hours.

How much of that 6 hours is spent being distracted and wandering around your room aimlessly?

When we limit our time, we can get things done faster.

This isn’t to say that you should try and do 56 math problems in 2 minutes or sacrifice actually learning the material, but making a game to see how fast you can accurately do your homework is a great way to stay focused because now instead of just trying to focus on the content, you are focused on the goal of completing it and that will carry you through when it gets hard to stay focused.

2. Give Yourself a Reward When You Finish

It’s the only trick in the book, but that’s because it works and is one of my best productivity tips .

If you’re find it difficult to stay focused on your homework, make sure to promise yourself some sort of award when you finish.

For example, if you finish your book report, you can watch 30 minutes of your favorite TV show.

If you finish your math problems, you can have the snack you’ve been wanting since you got home.

Those of us adults with homework can also do this, but in bigger ways.

When you finish your dissertation, reward yourself by buying the new purse you’ve been keeping your eye on.

When you finish your physics problems, you can call a friend and go meet up for dinner.

Human nature is to work best when we are working towards something, and this is another way of keeping you focused on your homework by keeping you focused on the reward that will come from staying focused and completing your goal.

3. Find a New Way to Study

Sometimes, focus comes down to what you’re actually doing to learn the material.

For instance, I never learned well just rereading my notes to study for tests, and I found it much easier to use index cards to create questions and quiz myself with.

If part of your homework is studying for a test or something that you’re able to do in a way that makes more sense to you, do that!

We had quite a few projects that I was able to be more creative on that really helped keep me focused on working on them because I was much more interested.

If you’re having major problems focusing on your homework, check to see that you’re picking topics that really interest you, where possible, or talk to your teachers or professors to let them know that you’re struggling and see if they have any creative suggestions on how you could learn the material.

You can also use something like ClickUp to help you organize your homework and studying virtually.

4. Create a Study Group and Set a Goal

Study groups aren’t always good for focusing on homework because by the end of it, you’ve devolved into planning your Spring Break and no one has stuck to the plan or gotten much work done.

However, I like study groups as a way to stay focused on school work when you have a goal in mind. For instance, you could meet up and say you’re not going to leave the library until you’ve finished the project or you could say you’re not going to leave until you all feel confident that you could pass a test on Chapter 7 or you won’t finish until everyone has finished and understands how to do all of the math problems.

Having a study group just to have a study group isn’t always helpful, but with a clear outcome in mind, you can at least try and keep the socializing to a minimum until you go out and celebrate later for having finished.

You can also do it virtually with a platform like Zoom , which I talk about in my list of productivity tools .

This is also a great time to actually be honest with yourself about who that you know would make a good study group.

5. Do the Hardest Homework First

Our ability to focus goes down the longer we work on something, so if you have 4 hours of homework in 4 different subjects, you should start with what you find hardest first when your focus can be at its peak.

By the time you reach the fourth hour, you may be really wishing you had something that was much easier to focus on because you will naturally lose the willpower and ability to stay focused for that long.

This sometimes goes against our natural inclinations to save the hardest homework for last because we don’t want to deal with it until later, but putting it off makes it even harder to focus.

6. Listen to Instrumental Music

For some people, music can help keep them stay calm when stressed and is a good idea when trying to focus on homework, but make sure it’s the right kind of music.

For me, music with words is actually really difficult to have on in the background while I work on something also related to words (reading or writing or trying to understand concepts) because it uses that part of my brain to try and sing along.

I find that instrumental music is much better, whether it’s just basic instrumental music, instrumental covers of my favorite songs, or dedicated study playlists that use music that is actually thought to improve your concentration based on the tones of the sounds it creates.

You can find tons of these on Youtube and just put it on in the background as you try to get to work.

7. Create Your Perfect Environment

Equally, some of us find it super hard to focus with any noises in the background.

The aim of the game when it comes to focusing on homework has to do with creating your perfect environment and testing different environments to see what works for you.

Some people will find it easy to work in a library filled with other people working and walking around, while others will want to be in a cubicle with nothing else going on around them.

Some will want complete silence, others will want to blare music.

You should also think about the actual physical way you do your homework and whether that’s helping you.

There is a big difference for some people in the ability to focus when you’re laying down on your bed versus sitting at a dedicated desk, or working outside versus working inside.

Create the best environment you can before you get started on your homework and you’ll make it that much easier for yourself to focus.

8. Complete It In 20 Minute Chunks

Most people can focus for about 15-30 minutes before needing a quick break to look at something else or just stop looking at whatever they’re working on for a minute or two.

If you chunk your homework down into 20 minute chunks and aim to complete one at a time, this is actually a really useful way to stay focused because it’s not as daunting and you can focus on getting through one chunk at a time.

You can do this in so many ways, like chunking down the math problems and doing 10 at a time before you take a break, or reading a certain number of pages before you take 5 minutes to look up from your book.

Do everything in your power to make focusing seem less challenging, and your mind and body will more easily cooperate.

9. Get a Tutor

Sometimes, a study group of your friends isn’t necessarily the best idea under many circumstances, but a tutor almost always is.

Unlike a social companion, they’re there basically to help you focus on studying and to help coach you through anything you find difficult.

Having that external person who is sitting with you and helping you chunk down your work and setting goals for you is exactly what some people need to get their homework done in a productive way.

The level of tutor you need depends on what you’re working on.

If you just want someone to help you with the material who has done it before, you could ask someone a few grades above you to help out.

Equally, some families hire tutors for children with learning disabilities or those who are really struggling in a topic, and in this case the tutor may have a lot more experience in behavior and helping people to get the work done that goes beyond having done it beore.

10. Plan to Teach it to Others

Teaching the material to others is always a great way to help yourself stay focused when learning, because believe it or not, you’re learning to!

I used to teach my stuffed animals the material after I had done some homework on it, but you can also try and teach it to anyone to see how much you remember.

Many times, this transition into an active way of learning rather than passive is a great way to stay focused on studying and get things done instead of just hoping you remember it.

11. Use Website Blockers on Your Computer

If your problems with staying focused on your homework come down to other distractions, you can install plenty of software on your computer or phone that actually block certain websites when you tell them to.

You could block social media so you’re not taking breaks to scroll Instagram, block the entire internet or turn off the WiFi if you’re trying to focus on reading but can’t help continue to go on Reddit every couple of minutes, etc.

Staying focused isn’t just a “you” problem, it is a pretty prevalent human problem, especially in the modern world where we have more distractions than ever before.

So be strong, block the websites and apps, and then get down to business.

Not giving yourself the option to go on them means you don’t have to use up willpower trying not to.

You could also do this by giving someone else your password to your social media accounts and having them change it and not telling you what it is so it’s impossible for you to get in.

12. Make a To-Do List with Color Coding

For us visual people, making color coded to-do lists isn’t just an Instagrammable organizational tip, but a big life hack that helps us stay on track and be more productive.

If you’re struggling with your homework and staying focused, make a list each day of exactly what you need to do and use color codings, post-it notes or another visual way of checking things off to work through your list.

The more that you visually see completed on the paper, the more motivated you’ll be to keep staying focused and getting through the rest.

When you don’t have a list, it can feel like you’re not making any progress.

13. Use a Highlighter When Reading

If your homework involves reading or studying, you can also take an active role in this by using a highlighter to highlight important passages or use a pen to make notes next to the reading as you go.

This is proven to keep you more engaged in the material, which in turn will keep you more focused on your reading.

When you’re forcing yourself to engage with and respond to the material, you’re much more likely to remember and stay focused on it as opposed to what happens when you just passively read a book or read over your notes.

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How to Focus on School Work & Stay Concentrated: 18 Tips to Follow

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Every new academic year has unique challenges that make students ask questions like, "Why can't I focus on school work?" It is more complicated than ever to maintain optimum concentration. Some people struggle because they are juggling family time, social activities, and media platforms. Nevertheless, you can focus on homework and finish your tasks efficiently by adopting interest-focusing strategies. These techniques will be helpful in overcoming diversions and concentrating on your schoolwork. You can achieve this by making simple schedule adjustments. In this blog post, we will discuss 18 tips on how to stay focused on homework in a clear and detailed manner. In case you have any questions or need expert assistance, contact StudyCrumb. Our academic writing team will be glad to solve any homework task you are dealing with. Say ‘ help with my assignment ’ and get top-notch assistance.

Why Can't I Focus on My Homework?

The question "why can't I focus on homework?" is popular among students, as numerous things can be distracting when doing assignments. Several hindrances like social networking sites, overthinking and watching digital content continuously demand concentration. As a result, you have little or no control over your thoughts. You must ensure your brain is dedicated to completing the task at hand. Focusing on an assignment may be challenging for many reasons. From my perspective, one of the reasons why I can't focus on school work is experiencing stress or exhaustion. Of course, being bored with the subject itself could also be the cause of why you are not concentrating. Many people find that figuring out the obstacle is the best way of understanding how to get focused on school work. Similarly, eating well and leading a healthy lifestyle is what helps you focus on homework.

Can't Focus on Homework? Find Out All Distracting Facts

Why can't I concentrate on my homework? Is paying attention to my assignments so crucial? Welcome to the new era where distractions are everywhere, and you can't concentrate on homework. How can you possibly finish your schoolwork and focus on it without being interrupted? Something minor, like social media browsing, may not seem harmful initially, but it can hinder studying. Students must learn how to stay focused while doing homework so that they can perform well. Many factors may contribute to these distractions and make you feel like you have limited power over your thoughts. These elements of distraction include the following:

Lack of interest is a common reason why students experience difficulties with concentration. If you aren’t interested in your subject and are looking for an expert to pay for homework , StudyCrumb is the best place to seek for academic help. Let us know the details and we will match you with the best writer in your field.

Tips for Focusing on Homework

You may struggle with focus occasionally as a freshman or a graduate student. One of the obstacles is the question of how to concentrate on homework. It can be challenging when you are thinking about something else. For example, your mind is constantly shifting focus onto your phone, your stomach is grumbling, or you want to lie down and nap. Start by learning how to focus on schoolwork in general by adopting technology as a core part of making you creative. However, technology is responsible for a never-ending stream of diversions that can weaken the will toward education. Check a few tips below on how to focus better on homework while avoiding interference.

1. Provide Quiet and Comfortable Environment

Students should learn how to focus on school at home as a core part of achieving academic success. Using a computer to do your homework staying in a noisy living room environment may affect concentration. To focus on school work, move to a quiet area where you can listen to helpful videos and read books. Make the space cozy, ensure it is also tidy, and maybe use inspirational banners in the room. You will probably have an easier understanding if you minimize distractions when studying. A quiet and conducive environment can optimize the quality of time spent on schoolwork and spare enough hours for free time. This is one of the crucial ways how to stop getting distracted from homework.

2. Prepare Snacks and Water Beforehand

This is another critical method and a sure way how to focus when doing homework. Here, you can learn how to focus on school by consuming water and healthy snacks, including low-fat yogurt, whole-grain bread, and dried fruits. It is not a good idea to eat a substantial meal prior to starting to work on the homework since it takes a lot of energy and time to digest the food. Thus, large meals can make you unproductive. Instead, preparing snacks and water beforehand is one of the easy-to-implement tips to help focus on homework. Water prevents dehydration and helps in digestion. Healthy snacks are a crucial element of a well-balanced diet, particularly when studying for long periods. Easy meals for college students play a critical role in curbing overeating. They also boost energy levels and metabolism and reduce hunger pangs, allowing you to concentrate better on your schoolwork.

3. Provide Silence to Concentrate on Homework

People often need silence when contemplating how to not get distracted while doing homework. Most students wonder why it is so hard to focus on school work in a loud environment. This is because it shifts your mind to what is happening around you rather than concentrating on your homework. Maintaining silence when focusing on school work enables you to absorb information better, remember it, and formulate new questions. You can assess the significance of alternative viewpoints and internalize different emotions and facts. Furthermore, silence allows you to practice deliberate and purposeful communication. It is also necessary to ensure effective use of the time allocated for schoolwork.

4. Organize Your Study Place

Taking an hour or more to arrange your space is helpful when figuring out how to focus on doing homework. If you study in your room, ensure the windows are open for the flow of fresh air. However, remain mindful of outside noise that may become even more distracting. One of the things to help you focus on homework is adequate illumination to help with reading and writing and clearing your mind. Both these preparations can be achieved using music and easy hygiene procedures. If you enjoy classical music, turn it on for the smooth sounds that will help you relax. Spend a few minutes removing dirty things on the desk, table, and study space, including your sitting position. The whole idea of organizing your study space is made to avoid time wastage. Furthermore, great organization boosts concentration and output and helps you avoid distraction.

5. Block Apps and Websites That Can Distract From Doing Homework

Another incredible tip on how to concentrate on school work is by blocking apps and websites that cause distraction. Focusing is undoubtedly tricky if you are completing homework on a laptop. Some apps are beneficial while others are not, especially when you think of what helps you focus on homework and ensure effective use of allocated time. For instance, Screen Time is an app that assists you in avoiding frequent distractions. Avoid apps like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube to focus on homework and close any notifications like text messages not to get distracted. By blocking these apps, you will concentrate more on your studies and enhance your workflow. You can run a few applications that support your efficiency in handling schoolwork.

6. Avoid Multitasking to Be Focused on School Work

If you are unsure about how to focus on homework at home, you are in the right place. You should identify different methods so you can concentrate thoughts on schoolwork and optimize the learning process. Focusing on one assignment at a time is another way how to stay focused on school work. Multitasking will reduce your productivity. Avoid watching a video lesson on science while completing your math assignment because you might be losing more than you gain. Before beginning a new task, finish the previous one and concentrate on homework. This enables you to take part in the activity more deeply and stay attentive. In addition, you will retain more knowledge and have less trouble applying the information in the real world if you can focus more on your schoolwork.

7. Choose the Best Time for Homework

As the saying goes, to everything, there is a time and place , and with homework, you need to set the appropriate time and place to work it out. You need to choose designated periods to make yourself focus on homework. Attentiveness to schoolwork may be difficult if the event is not scheduled correctly. Therefore, choosing the most appropriate time to focus on your homework without many distractions is key. The correct perspective in handling assignment deadlines would entail the selection of a timeframe that is best for you. In other words, the time allocation should be uneventful yet scheduled at an appropriate time for maximum efficiency. This means you will consider periods when your mind is fresh and there are minimal distractions to remain productive while focusing on schoolwork.

8. Put Aside All Gadgets

When researching how to do homework without getting distracted, gadgets are considered to be some of the most distracting elements that you can have. Having gadgets around, such as phones, leaves you vulnerable to shifting attention. This entails calls and messages from friends in social media or online interactions. Although gadgets are essential in helping you study, switch them off in order to not get distracted when doing homework. Accordingly, managing screen time must be a central topic when developing ways how to focus on your homework. You will find that without distractions, you can easily set attention to the tasks that matter. Putting off your gadgets often results in higher efficiency and productivity, especially when handling academic tasks.

9. Prioritize Your Homework

As with many other things, priorities are central when getting work done. Schoolwork at home can easily fall into events that are of lower importance. However, eliminating this perspective may be critical when considering how to focus while doing homework. Prioritization is the most effective when planning and scheduling events. Tasks like doing homework should, in this case, be set as the most important and high up on the schedule compared to other events. More time should also be allocated to more urgent events. This allows you to organize your thoughts and ideas while doing your homework without feeling rushed.

10. Plan Your Schedule to Be Concentrated

Students often wonder how to focus more on school work, especially when dealing with time-critical events or when they have a lot on their plate. I have, in several instances, successfully used scheduling when strategizing how to make myself focus on homework. The trick lies in developing a schedule that works for you. The plan, in this case, should operate around all your daily events and take advantage of the free periods. You can therefore complete the tasks that are typically overlooked. Keeping time will be easier with the correct approach to scheduling. You will also make more time for the things that previously fell between the cracks and remain undone.

11. Divide Your Task Into Parts

Undertaking large volumes of work that cannot be well-tracked may seem overwhelming. Being compelled can then make it hard to stay focused. In my experience, the practice of dividing work into parts has been able to help me focus on homework. Breaking down large volumes of tasks enables you to easily keep track of the progress you make and avoid the feeling of being overwhelmed. You can use this as a tip when figuring out what to do when you can't focus on homework. Also, scheduling periodic breaks after completing a stressful section will be helpful.

12. Make To-Do Lists to Focus on Homework

Lists are a common way of tracking the important events that should be done throughout the day. They can also be helpful when thinking of how to stay focused on homework in college or even in your personal engagements. You may wonder how to stop getting distracted while doing homework using lists, and here is how. Listing all the day's tasks in order of how you would like to undertake them keeps you focused on your goals. The order will help you tackle things individually and shape your focus on the next item you need to work on. Setting goals for each step can also lead to exceptional results in completing homework and minimizing distractions.

13. Use Tools and Apps for Studying

As a student, you must leverage technologies and all available ways to focus on homework. The advantage of studying in the modern schooling environment is that you have a wide array of tools and resources. For instance, mobile apps and games can help you meet the objectivity tasks you may require. They will also help you to get useful time management skills . Many free apps and tools help you to focus on school work at home. For example, scheduling apps offer time management and planning resources that help you get that extra edge in keeping focused. These tools provide alerts to inform you of your tasks and even help manage your progress. In addition to scheduling applications, using PDF annotating apps and tools can be very helpful for studying. Apps like PDF Reader Pro allow you to open, edit, annotate and share PDFs with ease. You can highlight important textbook passages, add notes and bookmark pages to better focus on your homework. 

14. Set a Timer While Doing Homework

Using timers is a great option when you are not able to concentrate on homework. Students who can't focus on school work may benefit from using them to manage their engagement in different daily activities. Timers are mainly instrumental in keeping your attention focused on a specific goal. Productivity timers, for instance, may help keep your focus by holding you accountable for every minute that passes. You know you need to finish a set number of tasks based on the time spent on these tasks. This can be beneficial if you are prone to procrastination or are too busy with other things. Older students wondering how to stay focused on homework in college or tertiary institutions may also use timers to manage their efficiencies. Timing yourself can also help keep pressure on the mind and focus your thoughts. Therefore, make timed tasks a habit.

15. Come Up With Motivation

Motivation greatly helps when you wonder what to do when you can't focus on homework. Sometimes, simple inspiration and goal realignment may be all you need to restore your attention. Motivation comes in many forms and shapes. For instance, using reward systems or adjusting your school goals with personal interests may go a long way. Other options include joining group work discussions that match these objectives and engaging in an exercise that may help keep you motivated. So next time you think of how to focus on schoolwork at home, consider what benefits you may get from developing motivation for your goals.

16. Make Breaks for Better Concentration on Homework

Concentration is part of what can help me focus on homework, and there is a chance you may be severely affected by fatigue. Exhaustion is to be expected, especially when handling challenging course materials. I mostly find that I can't focus on my homework when I am tired. It becomes complicated to focus on homework without getting distracted when exhausted, and the solution I have found so far is taking a break. This helps rejuvenate the mind and generate new energy. Scheduling periodic intervals minimizes stress and allows you to refocus your thoughts. Nevertheless, be mindful and do not take a break that extends for too long.

17. Change Study Spot

You may be curious how a change in the environment affects your ability to concentrate or how to make yourself focus on homework with so many distractions at home. Fortunately, there are standard solutions to these questions as well. If you are wondering how to focus on school work at home, you should move to a different study spot. In a spacious house, you can find a quiet, designated space to set up and do your homework. Having a fixed location with the right environment for concentration may increase your creativity significantly. In smaller houses, getting a place that is secluded from direct distractions may also help minimize the impact these distractions have on your attentiveness.

18. Listen to Music

Changing approach to studying may also be needed to stay focused on homework. Listening to your favorite music can be a great option. This is particularly true if you have considered most of the options shared above and are still wondering how to do your homework without getting distracted. Music to study to is a great way to keep you focused, especially when using headphones to prevent external noise. It is exceptionally effective in stress management. There is a higher chance you may get distracted when doing challenging homework assignments. Music is one of the things that can be used to clear the mind when you are curious about what to do if you can't focus on homework. Symphonies and upbeat music, for instance, help manage stress by boosting the thinking process. It is, however, important to avoid listening to songs playing in the background with lyrics that may be distracting. Instrumentals are, in most cases, the more practical option.

Final Thoughts on How to Focus on Schoolwork

Beyond education, learning to concentrate on your schoolwork might also help you in other pursuits in your life. Among the best abilities for fostering your development is concentration. Various tips are practical when you spend all day and night working on school or college papers and cannot concentrate on your assignment. Stick to these 18 strategies if you want to try and work out how to focus on homework without getting distracted. We have all been through the "how do I focus on my homework" moment occasionally. However, listening to music, organizing your study place, and setting a timer will help you stay focused when doing homework. Make it a routine to read and utilize these tips; you will not regret a single day in your life.

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• Fear of failure.
• Electronic devices.

FAQ About Focusing on Homework at Home

1. why can't i focus on homework for more than 10 minutes.

Gaining strict concentration may be one of the most challenging issues affecting students. Many learners find that they can't focus on homework even when they want. Distractions, exhaustion, and a general lack of interest in the subject are to blame for their lack of focus. In some cases, stress and other emotional distractions may affect a person's ability to focus.

2. How can I train my brain to concentrate on homework?

Fortunately, this problem can be solved by simple discipline routines and habits that enable students to concentrate on homework. Working past the undisciplined mind can be achieved by simply following a strict routine. Scheduling tasks and timelines are some of the ways that can be used to keep your mind set on targeted goals. Turning off all distractions, such as the television and background music, may also help improve concentration levels.

3. How to get my child to focus on homework?

Parents or guardians are often a great source in helping their children stay focused when doing homework. Creating an enabling environment and assisting in doing homework are ways that parents can improve their child's concentration and remain involved in their learning process. Other options, such as helping develop workable schedules for children, are also plausible ways that parents can use.

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How to Focus on School Work: A Complete Guide

• Effective Effort Consulting
• February 5, 2024

Welcome to our guide on maintaining focus in school, inspired by the experiences of Jake and Sarah. Their unique journeys offer valuable insights into overcoming common student challenges in focus and learning.

Sarah and Jake have learned that maintaining focus in middle school and high school becomes more intuitive when future aspirations are clearer in their mind. Ask yourself – what drives you? Is it a dream college, a coveted internship, honor roll, or a specific career path?

Keep a written list of these intentions near your study area. Add an inspiring image that reflects your goals. These visual reminders will anchor you, especially during challenging moments, reinforcing why staying focused each night is crucial.

“Your intentions guide your attention. So make your goals visible”

Remember, the efforts you put in now are building blocks for your future success. Looking back, you’ll appreciate the goals you’ve achieved and the journey you’ve embarked on. This thought alone is a powerful motivator.

Table of Contents

What Does Focus Mean?

Jake, in learning to thrive with ADHD , developed strategies to leverage his high energy positively, turning it into a strength during his soccer practices. Sarah discovered that breaking down her math problems into smaller, more manageable parts made them less intimidating and more approachable.

Improve your focus and grades by understanding your study skill strengths and weaknesses

Focus, Not Concentration

Focusing on homework can sometimes feel like a struggle, especially when there are so many other things you might prefer to be doing. Perhaps your attention is constantly being diverted to your phone, you’re noticing hunger pangs, or you’re simply tempted to lie down for a quick snooze. Fortunately, there’s a silver lining – you can overcome these distractions and realign your focus by implementing some straightforward adjustments to your study habits.

Jake uses sports analogies to relate to his studies, while Sarah employs visual aids for her math work, proving that focus is about engaging actively with your work.

Additional Suggestions:

• Try different study techniques like mind mapping.
• Discuss difficult topics with peers or teachers for new perspectives.
• Develop personalized study skills to improve focus and learning

Consider these 8 Tips to Focus on Homework

Tip 1️⃣ : Exercise First

Exercise helps Jake manage his ADHD and enhances Sarah’s concentration, especially before tackling challenging subjects like math.

The Science of Exercise and Focus

Research indicates that cardio exercises, which quicken your heart rate, enhance memory and cognitive skills. Activities like jogging, cycling, playing a sport, or any fast-paced exercise fall into this category. Engaging in such exercises just before diving into your schoolwork can invigorate your body. This increased blood flow activates your brain, making it more alert and primed to concentrate on homework tasks.

Incorporating Exercise into Your Daily Routine

⏱️The 52-17 rule can be a powerful tool for optimizing exercise or ‘brain breaks’ during homework sessions. This rule suggests working intently for 52 minutes followed by a 17-minute break. This pattern aligns with the brain’s natural rhythm of concentration and rest, fostering productivity and mental agility.

When you apply this rule to your homework, you work in focused, undistracted bursts, knowing a break is just around the corner. This can help reduce burnout and keep your mind sharp. During the 17-minute break, engage in activities that refresh you – a brisk walk, a light snack, or a different kind of mental activity. These breaks are not just pauses but are designed to rejuvenate your brain, making your study time more effective.

• Incorporate stretching or light exercise during study breaks.
• Try different forms of exercise to find what best suits your routine.

Tip 2️⃣ : Set a Routine

Jake and Sarah demonstrate the power of a structured routine, but it was not easy and took time and effort to get into a rhythm. Since Jake also struggled with executive dysfunction , the skill development process took more time and goal-directed perseverance. Jake learned to synchronize his study and sports schedules using a planner, while Sarah dedicates specific times for her math practice. 

A well-planned routine simplifies productivity, especially with homework. It’s about creating a habit, like sitting at your desk after school, silencing your phone, outlining your tasks, and tackling the most important ones first. This approach streamlines your focus and helps efficiently complete projects. For students with executive functioning challenges , it can be helpful to get professional coaching help in order to build the routine, study skills, and foster greater independence and consistency in the process. 

Set deadlines

When you are in the right nightly homework routine it’s easier to set deadlines for getting assignments done. Having a consistent homework schedule gives you a chance to set deadlines on how much time you need to or want to spend on specific short and long term assignments.  

How to Make a Schedule:

Taking charge of tracking your school work and personal life can significantly boost your focus. Utilize a digital calendar or a physical planner to keep tabs on assignment due dates. This habit isn’t just about high school; it’s prep for college and your future career, empowering you to steer your own path.

If you’re tech-savvy and not easily distracted, your phone can be a great tool. Set reminders for study sessions or material reviews. On the flip side, there’s something about the act of writing that cements information in your memory. Consider getting a cool journal or daily planner for this purpose. Not only does it help you remember, but it also adds a personal touch to your organization game.

• Jake recommends this planner for student-athletes. 
• Review and adjust your routine weekly to find what works best.
• Include leisure activities in your routine for a balanced approach. 25 minutes of focus time with a 5-minute brain brake. This is known as the Pomodoro Technique.

Tip 3️⃣ : Be Prepared

To maintain focus and avoid distractions during your study sessions, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Coach Jessica Gale, an Executive Function Coach with Effective Effort Consulting , advises:

“Before you begin each day’s work, make sure you have everything you need at hand,” recommends Coach Gale. “This includes a list of contacts like teachers and counselors, materials for note-taking, your daily schedule, and a glass of water. Being this organized prevents the need to step away to find something, keeping distractions at bay and helping you stay focused on your tasks.”

Set the Mood

Listening to the right kind of music can enhance your study sessions. This is a personal experience and every student needs to figure out what type of music promotes the ideal focus and productivity. 

Research shows that classical music, especially consistent and soothing tracks, can improve concentration and information retention. Avoid large orchestral pieces with dramatic variations in volume, as they may distract more than help. Opt for elevator-style, steady background music. To enhance focus, consider using noise-canceling headphones. For a suitable playlist, check out the “Classical Study Music” playlist on YouTube, offering a selection of calm and steady classical tunes ideal for studying.

Avoid heavy meals

Eating a large meal before studying isn’t recommended, as it can lead to sluggishness and reduced focus. The body expends a significant amount of energy digesting big meals, diverting attention away from mental tasks. Opting for a light snack is a better choice.

 For instance:

• 🥤 Soda : High in sugar, it can cause a rapid spike and crash in insulin levels, leading to an energy slump.
• 🍬 Candy : Similar to soda, candy’s high sugar content can lead to quick energy highs followed by sharp drops.
• 🍟 Fried Foods : Often loaded with fats and lacking nutritional value, these can make you feel lethargic and less able to concentrate.

These foods trigger quick insulin spikes, but these are followed by rapid crashes, leaving you feeling drained and unfocused.

Fuel up with water and healthy snacks.

Staying hydrated and well-fed is key to maintaining focus and absorbing information effectively. Ensure you have a water bottle or thermos within reach during your study sessions, and take regular sips to stay refreshed, especially if you start feeling fatigued or your attention wanes. 

Additionally, keep some nutritious snacks on hand for when hunger strikes. Optimal study snacks that fuel your brain include:

• Apple slices paired with peanut butter
• A variety of nuts, with almonds being a great choice
• Greek yogurt for a protein boost
• A refreshing fruit salad
• A piece of dark chocolate for a quick energy lift

Impact of sugary foods on focus and ADHD. 

While planning snacks for study sessions, it’s important to be mindful of the effects of sugar, especially for individuals with ADHD. High sugar intake can potentially exacerbate ADHD symptoms. Sugary snacks can lead to quick spikes in blood sugar levels, followed by a rapid drop, which might result in fluctuating energy levels and difficulty in maintaining focus. This can be particularly challenging for those with ADHD, as they may already face hurdles in sustaining attention and managing impulses.

Choosing snacks that are low in sugar and high in protein or healthy fats, like the ones previously mentioned (apple slices with peanut butter, nuts, Greek yogurt, fruit salad, and dark chocolate), can provide more stable and sustained energy, helping to maintain better focus and concentration during study sessions.

Tip 4️⃣ : Establish a WorkSpace

Jake’s workspace is free from gaming distractions, aiding his ADHD management. Sarah’s space is equipped with math resources, and her focus App shields her from social media distractions. 

Have a Designated Study Space

Studying at the kitchen table might seem convenient, but it’s often not the ideal spot. Being in a communal area means it’s likely to be a high-traffic zone, which can be distracting. Additionally, since it’s also a space for meals, you might have to interrupt your study session to make way for dinner preparations.

Such interruptions not only disrupt your immediate focus, particularly when grappling with complex topics, but also require you to spend extra time later reorganizing your materials. Studies suggest that having a specific, designated area for studying can significantly enhance your ability to concentrate on your work. 

Benefits of avoiding homework in your bedroom

🛏️ Better Sleep Hygiene : Your bedroom should be a sanctuary for rest. Doing homework there can blur the line between relaxation and work, potentially leading to difficulties falling asleep or disrupted sleep patterns. Keeping study spaces separate helps your brain associate the bedroom with restfulness and relaxation.

🚫 Reduced Distractions : Bedrooms often contain numerous personal distractions such as gadgets, games, or comfortable beds that can tempt you away from studying. By choosing a different study area, you minimize these distractions, which can enhance your focus and productivity.

🧠 Clearer Mental Segmentation : Having separate spaces for sleep, relaxation, and work helps in mentally categorizing different activities. When you avoid doing homework in your bedroom, it helps in creating a mental distinction between time for work and time for rest, leading to a more balanced and organized mindset.

Declutter Your Personal Space

Decluttering is crucial for enhancing focus and productivity. A well-organized study space, where everything has its place, streamlines the process of finding what you need when you need it. By keeping your writing supplies in a pencil box or desk organizer and sorting your papers by subject into folders, you minimize time spent searching for materials. This organization directly impacts your ability to focus on the task at hand.

“Clutter is nothing more than postponed decisions. A clear space equals a clear mind, and a clear mind is the key to effective learning.”

Before starting your work, take a moment to tidy up your study area. Remove unnecessary items, file completed assignments appropriately, and dispose of any trash. This not only clears your physical space but also declutters your mind, allowing for better concentration and more efficient study sessions.

• Personalize your workspace with items that inspire you.
• Ensure your workspace has good lighting and is comfortable (but NOT too comfortable 🙂)

Tip 5️⃣ : Remove All Distractions

Once you’ve chosen your study space, maximizing your study time requires eliminating distractions. This means switching off your phone and TV, and also tidying up your surroundings. A clean and organized workspace is key to maintaining focus and enhancing productivity.

Work on one assignment at a time.

When tackling math homework, avoid simultaneously listening to a biology lecture video. While it may seem like a productive multitasking effort, it can actually hinder your learning and will take longer. It’s more effective to complete one task before starting another. This also applies when taking History notes and watching Youtube. Developings strategies to avoid multitasking is particularly important for students with ADHD, who often face specific challenges with multitasking, such as:

• 🔀 Difficulty in Shifting Focus : Students with ADHD may struggle to switch their attention between tasks smoothly, leading to reduced efficiency in both.
• 😵 Overwhelm and Mental Fatigue : Trying to process multiple streams of information at once can be overwhelming and mentally exhausting for individuals with ADHD.
• 🚫 Impaired Retention : Multitasking can negatively impact the ability to retain and recall information, a challenge that can be amplified in students with ADHD.

Also, avoid texting friends or engaging in conversations with family members while studying. These additional distractions can significantly disrupt focus and the quality of your work.

Block distracting apps and websites on your computer or tablet.

To enhance focus during study sessions, consider blocking distracting apps and websites on your computer or tablet. For example, you can use apps like Cold Turkey or Freedom to block social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter during your study hours. Tools like StayFocusd can help limit time spent on specific sites, like YouTube or gaming websites. By creating these digital barriers, you’ll find it easier to concentrate on your work without the lure of online distractions.

Avoid Multitasking to Be Focused on School Work

To avoid multitasking, Jake keeps his phone away during study time, while Sarah uses website blockers to stay focused, especially on math work.  Sarah recommends using an app called Forest App . 

Other Suggestions to avoid multitasking pitfalls:

• Inform family or friends of your study schedule to minimize interruptions.
• Use noise-cancelling headphones if you’re easily distracted by external sounds.

Tip 6️⃣ : Active Note-Taking and Study Skills

Active note-taking is crucial for enhancing memory and personal connection to study material, particularly important for students with ADHD. 

The research highlights two key benefits of notetaking: 

• Effective note-taking, more than just jotting down information, involves engaging with the content in a meaningful way, such as through diagrams, bullet points, or color-coding, aiding in focus and understanding.
• For individuals with ADHD, personalized note-taking strategies are vital for reinforcing learning and facilitating later review for tests. This tailored approach to note-taking can significantly improve comprehension and retention of study materials.

Dr. Murphy discusses what active learning strategies are best for student-athletes.

Active learning skills like self-testing can enhance memory retention and recall. This practice, often referred to as the “testing effect,” involves actively engaging with the material through self-assessment rather than passively reviewing it. When you test yourself on the material you’re learning, it requires you to retrieve information from memory, strengthening your ability to recall it later.

This process does more than just help you remember the facts or concepts in the short term. Each time you retrieve a piece of information, it becomes more firmly embedded in your memory, making it easier to recall in the future. This is particularly beneficial for long-term retention, which is crucial for academic success.

Self-testing often reveals gaps in your knowledge, allowing you to focus your studies more effectively on areas that need more attention. This targeted approach to studying can lead to more efficient and effective learning, as opposed to spending time reviewing material you already know well.

Students who struggle with notetaking or active study skills can fall behind in the learning process. Many of these students will access tutoring help to get caught up. However, the cycle will repeat itself without active learning strategies to keep up with the daily demands of school.

Tutoring or academic coaching

Will tutoring solve my problem?

Turn your homework into a game to make it more fun.

Set a timer and challenge yourself to correctly answer as many questions as possible in a set time, like five minutes, or use flashcards for a quick knowledge test. Setting small, achievable goals adds an element of fun to your studies. Additionally, engaging in quizzes with friends or family, where each correct answer earns points, turns learning into a competitive game. 

Online tools like Quizlet and Quizizz also offer interactive learning experiences, enabling middle and high school students to engage more deeply with their subjects through gamified quizzes and flashcards, enhancing both participation and retention. For a creative twist, weave stories around your study material, such as imagining living in a historical era you’re studying, to further enrich your learning experience.

Tip 7️⃣ : Take Breaks

Frequent breaks actually increase your productivity and focus. You’ll see that after each study session, the brain needs to be engaged with something different —  you need to activate other parts of your brain before going back to your studies so that you can reach top performance.

Take a break at least once an hour.

Regular breaks help Jake manage his ADHD and keep Sarah refreshed, making their study sessions more effective.

Sarah suggests

• Try different types of breaks, like reading or baking, to see what refreshes you the most.
• Use break time to hydrate and have a healthy snack, or get that well deserved after dinner desert. 

Move around or stretch during breaks

Taking a 17-minute break after 52 minutes of focused study is a great way to recharge. Here are five excellent break activities:

• 🏋️‍♂️Physical Activity : Engage in a quick workout, like a brisk walk, push-ups, pull-ups, shoot some hoops, or some yoga stretches. This boosts blood circulation and re-energizes the body and mind.
• 🧘 Mindfulness or Meditation : Spend the break practicing mindfulness or meditation. This can help clear the mind, reduce stress, and improve concentration for the next study session.
• 🎨 Creative Outlet : Indulge in a creative activity like drawing, playing a musical instrument, or crafting. This shifts your brain from analytical to creative mode, offering a refreshing change.
• 🍏💧 Snack and Hydration Brea k: Have a healthy snack, like fruits or nuts, and hydrate with water or herbal tea. This nourishes your body and can improve cognitive function.
• 👫 Interaction : If you have a sibling, plan your breaks together and go outside together. 

Tip 8️⃣ : How to Stop Procrastinating

Jake changes his study location to keep things fresh, and Sarah sets mini-goals for each math study session to stay on track. Since Math is Sarah’s most challenges tasks, she starts it first in order to avoid procrastination or fatigue. 

Jake also suggests

• Keep a procrastination diary to understand and mitigate your triggers. A sticky note next to your desk is a helpful way to track your procrastination tendencies. 
• Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Decide to just get started on first benchmark. 

Redirect your attention if you notice your mind wandering. Try “Focus, refocus” techniques. 

It’s hard to maintain focus in the evening after a long school day. Procrastination becomes a common challenges to manage. “Focus, refocus” techniques helps to enhance your ability to maintain continuous concentration, even in the face of distractions, which is crucial for efficient and productive study sessions.

This training involves:

• 🔍 Recognizing Distractions : Becoming aware when your focus shifts from the task at hand.
• 🔍 Refocusing Techniques : Practicing methods to promptly bring your attention back to your work. This might involve deep breathing, a brief moment of mindfulness, or a quick review of what you were studying.
• 🔍 Reinforcement: Regularly practicing these techniques strengthens your ability to regain focus quickly after a distraction.
• 🔍 Building a Habit : Over time, this training develops into a habit. The more you practice refocusing, the more instinctive it becomes to redirect your attention effectively.

Move to a new study spot if you’re feeling bored.

Shifting your study environment can re-energize your brain and sharpen your focus. Consider relocating to a new room, stepping outside, or choosing a completely different venue like a library study room. A fresh setting can make you feel more alert and revitalized. Even small changes to your usual study area can make a difference. Try adding new decorations or simply switching to a different seat at your dining table. 

Put away anything that might make it hard to concentrate.

One of the key strategies to improve focus in high school and avoid procrastination is to minimize digital distractions. Despite the common belief in multitasking, research indicates that our brains can only focus on one task at a time. Texts and social media notifications, if attended to during learning sessions, will split your attention. 

“A focused mind is like a fortress; don’t let digital distractions breach its walls.”

To combat this, it’s crucial to keep your phone away from your study area and disable social media notifications during class time. Additionally, consider using anti-distraction apps that block potential interruptions, helping you maintain focus on your studies.

Effective Strategies and Support

Don’t be afraid to let others know that you’re studying and require some time and space to get your work done. Decide on fixed hours for studying and tell your friends and family members that you won’t be available during that time of the day. If others respect your study time, you’ll be more inclined to respect it as well. 

🎉 Reward yourself with something fun when you’re done.

After completing a study session, treat yourself to a reward as a motivation booster. For instance, taking a 20 minutes break to bake brownies is wonderful incentive to reward your hard work.

🧘 Be Patient, Trust the Process

Understand that mastering focus takes time and practice. As an example, if you struggle with a particular subject, remind yourself that gradual improvement is better than instant perfection.

🙋Reach out to your guidance counselor

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about your academic path, don’t hesitate to talk to your guidance counselor. They can provide tailored advice, like suggesting a study group or tutor if you’re struggling with a specific subject.

🔄Find What Works, Stick to It

Identify study techniques that are effective for you and make them a regular part of your routine. For instance, if you find that studying in short bursts with frequent breaks works best, incorporate this method consistently into your study habits.

• Answer: Utilize the 52-17 rule for breaks, create a distraction-free study space, and engage in active note-taking.
• Answer: These tools offer interactive and gamified learning experiences, making studying more engaging and effective.
• Answer: Focus on minimizing distractions, follow a structured routine, and opt for healthy snacks to maintain energy levels.
• Answer: A specific study area helps associate that space with productivity and focus, reducing distractions and enhancing concentration.
• Answer: Regular breaks, such as those recommended in the 52-17 rule, prevent burnout, refresh the mind, and improve overall focus.
• Answer: A balanced diet, especially low in sugar, can help maintain steady energy levels and concentration, which is crucial for students with ADHD.
• Answer: Incorporate study methods that work best for you, such as specific note-taking styles, and adjust your study environment to suit your preferences.

We’ve delved into effective strategies like minimizing distractions, embracing the 52-17 rule for study breaks, and the importance of active note-taking. The use of interactive tools like Quizlet and Quizizz, along with tips on maintaining a healthy diet and creating a productive study environment, particularly for students with ADHD, are highlighted. The blog also stresses the significance of customizing study methods, rewarding oneself, exercising patience, and reaching out for guidance. 

Dr. David Murphy, an Special Education Teacher and Academic Coach, leaves you with this last point as you take these suggestions in this blog to “Work Smarter, Not Harder” in your efforts to be the best student you can be. 

“Stay consistent in your homework routine and make yourself accountable to doing the homework like it matters. Imagine there is a quiz tomorrow. You will find yourself in a much better position when it’s time for the real assessment. Also, you will feel prepared for class, which also feels pretty good.  Trust me, it works.”

Dr. Murphy wants to leave you with these additional reminders. 

• Design an adequate learning space and then create a method to track the flow of homework, classwork, handouts, and written notes.
• Learn how to use a planner to track daily homework assignments, and prioritize and initiate a successful homework routine.
• Develop and practice active note-taking, active reading, active listening, and active study strategies.

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9 Science-Backed Ways to Stay Focused on Your Schoolwork

These focus strategies for students are proven to peak your concentration.

Do you find it hard to focus on homework? Do certain subjects make your mind drift off to other things? If you want to know how to focus on schoolwork, we've studied the science behind keeping your concentration and have discovered some keys to success! These research-backed focus strategies for students will help you concentrate and even boost your productivity.

Determine Your Learning Style

If you're not engaging your brain in the right way, it can make it hard to focus and understand the material. This can lead to anxiety, which can further distract you. The first step in honing your attention on schoolwork is determining the best ways for you to absorb the information.

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Most people fall into one of three main categories - visual, auditory, and tactile. If you want to find out your learning style, there's a simple self-assessment to determine where you land. Studies show that this information can help you study smarter .

Have a Designated Study Space

While the kitchen table may seem like an obvious place to study, this large space may not do you any favors. First, it's in a communal area, so it's likely there will be a lot of foot traffic in the room. Second, this is also the place where dinner will soon be served.

This will bring an abrupt stop to what you're doing and it will force you to pack up your stuff and get reorganized later. This can shatter your focus, especially if you're in the middle of reviewing a difficult concept. Research shows that by having a designated space to study , students can focus better on their work.

Remove Distractions

Once you've found your designated study space, it's important to get rid distractions in order to get the most out of your study time. This, of course, means turning off your phone and the television, but it can also mean other external diversions like large messes. Keeping a clean work area helps students to better maintain their focus and improve their productivity.

Pay Attention to Your Needs Before Studying

Don't forget about internal distractions as well. If you're hungry, thirsty, tired, or stressed, it can also obstruct your ability to concentrate. Obviously, if you are hungry or thirsty, there's a quick fix, but if you are tired, take a nap.

The key is to rest for the perfect amount of time - 10 to 20 minutes . Less than this and you will feel groggy. Much more, and you'll not only feel fatigued, but you'll also struggle to get back to sleep at night.

For those who are feeling stressed about their assignment, simply take ten minutes to stretch and then ten more to practice mindful meditation . This practice requires participants to let go of the past and focus on the present. Remind yourself:

• You can only control what is right in front of you.
• Previous struggles in this subject don't dictate how you will do moving forward.
• Your instructors designed this schoolwork to help you better understand the concepts.
• If you continue to struggle, there are other resources to tap into so that you can grasp the specific topic.

Set the Mood

Did you know that listening to classical music while you study can help to hone your concentration and even absorb information more effectively? However, not all melodies are effective. Experts recommend that students "skip over large orchestral pieces, particularly those with a dynamic that ranges from whispers to booming cannons." These can actually cause more distraction.

Instead, they recommend elevator-style music that provides a consistent and relaxing background melody. We also advise that you snag some noise-canceling headphones to listen to these instrumental tunes. These can help to further remove distraction and keep you focused on the task at hand.

Set Specific Work and Break Times

Sometimes, the hardest part about staying focused is having the feeling that the period of study will never end! You can only cram so much information into your brain at one time. Thus, set a timer and then put it in a drawer. When it goes off, take a break!

Want to perform better? Follow the 52-17 rule ! Research has found that this is an ideal work-to-break ratio. When setting alarms, work for 52 minutes and then take a productive 17 minute break.

What is a productive break? One that doesn't distract your mind too much. This means avoiding your phone and the television. Don't check your email or social media either. Instead, have a snack, stretch, go outside, meditate, nap, complete a quick chore , or set goals for the rest of your day. These activities can help you de-stress, stay positive, and concentrate better when you get back to work!

Fuel Up to Better Your Focus

Food for thought? No, really, eat your breakfast! There's a reason everyone says it's the most important meal of the day. Studies show that it can boost short-term memory and improve your attention . If you really want better brain power , snag some walnuts and a smoothie that contains berries and leafy greens! These can also work as a great study snack.

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Get Moving Before Work Times & During Breaks

Need even more of a brain boost? Get moving! Research shows that by working out for 20 minutes before a big study session, you increase blood flow to the brain . This enhances concentration and memory.

Focus Better by Fidgeting

If you find that your focus is fading during your 52 minute study window, grab a fidget toy! Yes , that's right. Fidget toys are a great tool for getting out nervous energy , lowering stress, and keeping your concentration on the task at hand.

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Find Focus Strategies for Students That Work Best for You

Everyone is different. If you find that some of these tips help, but you still have moments of distraction, consider changing the scenery of your study space. Try standing or sitting cross-legged style on the floor, brightening your workspace, or moving your study session outside . Figure out what works best for you and stick to it to have success in high school and beyond!

8 Ways to Focus When Doing Your Homework

Do you ever sit down to do your homework or write a paper and find yourself pulled in so many different directions that an hour later, you still don’t have anything written down?

If you want to get your homework done quickly and efficiently, you’ve got to learn how to focus, something that’s not always easy to do in our smart-phone, internet-addicted world.

By learning how to limit distractions and giving our homework undivided attention, not only will we get more out of the assignments, but they will feel like less of a chore, too.

Scientists have found that when we are completely focused on the task at hand, we can get into a “flow” state, which actually makes us happier.

According to Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, the renowned psychologist who first identified the concept of flow, achieving flow on a regular basis is a key component of happiness. He explains that people who are in a flow state are so involved in the process of creating something that they don’t have attention left over to listen to the chatter in their minds. And even though this can happen in the most mundane situations, it can lead to a subtle form of ecstasy. Really!

Okay, so maybe you’re never going to feel ecstatic about studying. But if you want to improve your focus and be more in the flow when doing your homework, here are some simple tips you can follow.

• Turn off your phone We’re putting this one at the top of the list because it is the number one biggest distraction when it comes to doing your homework. The most full-proof way of staying focused is to put your phone on airplane mode. Trust us, all of the texts from your friends and social media updates will still be there an hour later.
• Don’t check your email or social media While you’ll probably need to use a computer or device to complete certain assignments, make it a point to not check your email or social media accounts while you’re working. Just like the texts, these can all wait until later.
• Don’t go down the rabbit hole We’ve all done it. You Google a question about your science homework and suddenly you find yourself clicking on a link about whales, which leads you to another link about the Indian Ocean, which inspires you to look up pictures of tropical islands. And there you are dreaming about a beach vacation and wondering, “What was I supposed to be doing?” If you need to research something on the internet for your homework, don’t go down the rabbit hole! (And if you slip, try to get back on course as quickly as possible).
• Listen to Mozart Did you know that listening to classical music has been proven to boost people’s focus and productivity ? Classical music can help you lower your blood pressure and reduce anxiety, helping you feel calmer as you work. While you don’t necessarily have to listen to Mozart, make sure you select classical music that is relatively serene and definitely avoid music with lyrics.
• Take a nap If you start reading your textbook and find yourself dozing off in the middle of a sentence, it might be best to take a 15-minute nap and come back to your homework when you’re more refreshed. It’s better to be alert while reading and absorb what you read than to force yourself to read the same page three times and learn nothing from it. Just remember to actually get up in 15 minutes!
• Drink water Speaking of feeling tired, did you know that one of the leading causes of feeling tired is actually being dehydrated? Our bodies are made up of about 60 percent water, and when you are dehydrated, your blood volume decreases, making it harder for blood to get to your brain . Also, although coffee can give you a jolt, it actually causes more dehydration, so drinking water is more effective than amping up with caffeine.
• Eat healthy snacks Another way to keep yourself focused while you study is to munch on healthy snacks, ideally something that has protein that will keep you feeling full longer. Some good options are a handful of nuts or crackers with peanut butter. Avoid sugary snacks and junk food that will cause your blood sugar to spike and then crash a little while later.
• Sit up straight It seems so inviting to lie down on the couch with your book for English class and read under a blanket. But when you’re too comfortable, it’s easy to just fall asleep. That’s why it’s best to do your homework sitting up straight in a chair at a desk or a table. Keep the lights up high, too, to keep yourself more alert. And most importantly, do not try to read in bed!

Remember, the more alert you are when doing homework, the more quickly you’ll finish and be able to get back to something fun. Who knows? You may even get into a flow state and experience a moment of homework happiness!

The organization was established over 50 years ago and works “to change the trajectory of high-potential Black youth by providing unique programming in the classroom and beyond.” Their scholars complete a four-year fellowship that includes academic enrichment, leadership development, career exposure, mentoring and college access.

Students must maintain a grade point average near 3.0 to remain in good standing with the organization — a bar the organization sets knowing full well that access to scholarships and grants for college will be the only way that most of its students can afford to go. Not all students meet this threshold despite mentoring from caring adults and strong support from administrative staff. Thus additional academic supports are needed.

Over many years, EE provided programs to help get students back on track if they started to flounder and to establish academic habits that put them on a trajectory for success. We started by offering weekly group tutoring events at the organization’s facility that not only helped students with homework completion and exam prep but also provided lessons on learning strategies, goal setting, and self-advocacy. However, traveling to the facility after school was a burden for some scholars, so EE tutors also met students at libraries and other public locations to provide support in specific subject areas where students requested help. Year after year we met with administrators and added additional resources: a summer school study skills workshop for freshmen and final exam prep workshops for all grade levels. Our unique array of programs allowed the organization to support their scholars at every stage of their academic journey.

The mission of the organization is to fight for economic mobility among highly motivated, first-generation college students by providing mentoring and intensive career development. The agency was founded on the belief that socioeconomic status should not be a barrier to college persistence and career success. 

Their staff found that many of their participants were struggling with writing assignments of all sorts in college. From essays in English class to writing cover letters for potential summer internships, many students were not effective writers. The organization provided various career development workshops throughout the academic year, but they lacked a writer’s workshop to specifically address this area of weakness. 

We met with program managers and the executive director to discuss their students’ needs and what type of program would be beneficial. The Writer’s Practice Workshop was an ideal fit for them. The course allowed students to understand that everyone is a writer even if they don’t think of themselves as such. Over the course of four sessions students assessed their own writing process; discussed the tools of a good writer’s practice; considered the audience, purpose, and the needs of any piece; and produced writing on topics that were important to them. Students left the workshop with a greater understanding of how to start assignments and follow steps to revise, edit, and polish for best results, giving them confidence in their writing. 

The organization’s mission is to provide opportunities for underserved youth to achieve academic and personal success via financial, educational and personal support during their high school years. They provide tuition assistance to attend a high-quality school along with the guidance and commitment of caring, adult mentors. They aim to serve an often overlooked segment: academically “average” students from the city’s most challenging and underserved neighborhoods.

Program staff wanted to help their students prepare for final exams and train mentors to more effectively support students in their exam prep efforts. Volunteer mentors were available to give support, but the organization lacked a consistent approach on how best to help students and make them better learners.

EE met with program administrators and board members to plan and implement a Final Exams Workshop in the lead-up to final exams. The 3-hour workshop was attended by students and their mentors on a Saturday morning. The curriculum helped students create DIY study guides for any class, plan a study schedule, prioritize final exams by difficulty and need, assess and discuss their strengths and weaknesses in regards to learning strategies, and share with peers their successes or concerns. We also facilitated a conversation between mentors and mentees as to how they could best support their students in the coming weeks. Students and mentors left the workshop with a blueprint for attacking finals week in the most efficient way — a plan they could use for high school and college.

The organization supported immigrants and their families by connecting women from over 60 countries who share a dedication to the pursuit of global understanding and universal human rights. As part of their philanthropic arm, the organization supported a local elementary school they had identified as highly diverse with a large number of immigrant students. Before engaging EE, the organization relied mostly on volunteers to provide reading support to students during school hours. 

After discussions with the organization and the school principal, teachers, families, and other stakeholders, we developed a school year calendar of after school programs that would help students develop the skills needed to succeed in elementary school and beyond. We provided courses for grades 5-8 in the spring and fall, greatly expanding the enrichment opportunities the NFP was able to provide. In doing so, we developed a close relationship with the school administration and their teaching staff, who saw the positive impact the program was having on their students. Additionally, the NFP was able to expand their mission to areas where they saw a great need: improving study skills, raising test scores, and increasing access to high school opportunities for immigrant youth. 

A scholarship foundation funded by a suburban country club was disappointed with the caliber of student who typically applied for their college scholarship offerings. Knowing that the skills needed for success in college must be cultivated from an early age, they wanted to establish a summer enrichment program for students entering 9th and 10th grade that would serve as an early intervention and better position the pool of applicants when the time came a few years later to apply for the college scholarships.

We collaborated with the foundation to identify areas of strength and weakness in their applicant pool and listened to their personal beliefs about what it takes to succeed in college. With that understanding, we customized a version of the Summer Learners’ Workshop that lays the foundation for college-level skills and caters to the learning styles and academic backgrounds of the particular students at this organization.

The resulting program has gained a reputation as one of the top summer enrichment experiences in that community with parents routinely reporting that the results exceeded their expectations. The program is now attended by an even wider array of students than those who were first targeted by the foundation.

A charter school network was seeking to implement a test prep program across eight campuses to prepare their 8th grade students for the Chicago Public Schools selective enrollment entrance exam. The high school admissions process is highly competitive, and it was the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic when students were learning from home. The schools did not have expert knowledge about the contents of the test, and finding staff at their schools to cover a program outside of school hours would be challenging. Administrators knew how competitive the admissions process was and that even their strongest students were not guaranteed a spot. For equity, they wanted to offer the course to all of their students – even those who were very unlikely to be admitted to a selective enrollment school. 

Given the wide array of students, the EE team worked with individual school counselors to create ability groupings, determine a process for reporting attendance, progress, and behavior issues, and create a curriculum that would be effective in a remote learning model. We knew that remote engagement for an after school program would be a challenge, so we incorporated competitive team games, a leaderboard of accomplishments, and other incentives to encourage maximum participation. EE provided all management and instructional staffing to deliver the test prep course successfully while freeing up teachers and counselors at the charter school to focus on their daily workload. Students received a robust course focused on strategies, practice tests, and concept review that put them in the best position to maximize their potential on test day. 

A leading scholarship fund that provides financial assistance for highly qualified, low-income students knew that financial aid alone would be insufficient to ensure their students’ success at rigorous private and parochial high schools. Therefore, they sought an intensive summer program to prepare scholars for what lay ahead. 

EE worked with the organization to determine the biggest challenges scholars would face. We landed on a wide array of non-cognitive skills that are not necessarily taught in middle school: time management, organization, self-advocacy, focus, growth mindset, etc. Inspired by this challenge, we developed our Ideal Student Workshop, which would later become the basis for our Learners’ Workshop.

Over a decade later we are still delivering the program to students at this scholarship fund and others. The program works to develop the three dimensions of successful students: character, learning strategies and habits. We update the program yearly to keep up with changes in student needs and the educational landscape. Our fun and research-based curriculum continues to be a popular summer bridge for various organizations. 

A prominent sports-based youth development organization wanted to improve one of the core elements of their program: providing educational enrichment programs to their participants.

Their goal was to offer a continuum of services for 9th-12th graders that would support students in their schoolwork, provide a pathway to college, and create a culture of learning amongst players. EE was uniquely positioned to offer a variety of services to meet this need: private tutoring, study skills classes, writing courses, high school admissions test prep, SAT/ACT prep, and college readiness seminars. We listened to the players, parents, and other stakeholders to determine which programs were most effective, established expectations for participants, and decided on the best timing and format to deliver the courses.

Since 2017 we have successfully delivered these services allowing their administrative team to focus on their primary coaching responsibilities. Ultimately, the best praise we have received is that we have provided a wide circle of caring adults to support students academically and emotionally and that we have listened to their needs and adapted our offerings to suit their participants.

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Lesson Plan: How to Improve Your Focus

If you struggle to sit through a class or complete a homework assignment without wanting to check your phone every few minutes, this lesson can help.

By Natalie Proulx

Lesson Overview

Featured Article: “ How to Focus Like It’s 1990 ” by Dana G. Smith

Do you get distracted easily? When you have a homework assignment to complete, a book to read, an instrument to practice or a room to clean, is it easy for you to stay focused and do it, or does your mind drift and wander? Do you quickly begin to daydream, check your social media feed or think about what you want to eat? Are you distracted by constant dings and pings from your phone? In short, do you find yourself thinking about everything but the task at hand?

If you answered yes, you’re not alone. As Dana G. Smith writes in today’s featured article, “Smartphones, pings and Insta-everything have shortened our attention spans.” In this lesson, you’ll learn how to get some old-school concentration back with tips from experts.

The article you are about to read refers to a 2004 study which found that people averaged two and a half minutes on any given task before switching to something else. By 2012, the average time had dropped to 75 seconds. Now, we spend about 47 seconds on a task, on average.

Discuss with a partner: Do these findings surprise you? Or do they resonate with your experience of trying to concentrate? What do you think could explain the shortening of our attention spans?

How long do you think you can focus on something before you get distracted? Test it out: Grab a stopwatch and start reading the featured article . How long can you read before your mind starts to wander, you get interrupted by a ding on your phone or your brain simply needs a break? Can you beat 47 seconds? If you could, how easy or difficult was that experience for you? What ultimately broke your concentration? Share what you noticed with your partner.

Do you think you need to work on improving your concentration? If you were to try this again, what tips or tricks might you use to help stay focused?

Questions for Writing and Discussion

Read the article , then answer the following questions:

1. What does the study done by Gloria Mark, a professor of informatics at the University of California, Irvine, show us about attention spans today?

2. What are three things, according to the article, that cause us to get distracted and grab our phones? Which of these, if any, do you tend to experience when you are trying to focus?

3. Turning off notifications is often suggested as a way to reduce distractions. Why won’t this on its own solve the problem of distraction?

4. The article offers three ways we can improve our focus. What are they? Which one sounds most useful for you and why?

5. Dr. Mark and Larry Rosen, a professor emeritus of psychology at California State University, Dominguez Hills, both favor taking tech breaks over going cold turkey and giving up technology altogether. Why? Have you ever tried to give up technology for an hour, a day or longer? How did it go for you?

6. Maryanne Wolf, a professor in residence at the University of California, Los Angeles Graduate School of Education and Information Studies, says reading on paper is better than reading on a screen. Why would that be? How often do you read on paper? Do you think it could help you focus? Why or why not?

Going Further

Choose one of the strategies for improving focus recommended in the article and try it out. For example:

The next time you attempt a task you have trouble focusing on — such as doing your homework, practicing the piano or cleaning your room — instead of checking your phone whenever you feel like it, try focusing for 15 minutes and then giving yourself a two-minute tech break. Repeat until you finish the task.

Or, try to increase your self-awareness around your tech use while doing this task. As the article says, “When you have an urge to open Instagram, for example, ask yourself why: Do you feel exhausted and need a break? Will this help restore you? If so, go for it. After a few minutes, check in again and ask if the app is still giving you value. If not, it’s time to get back to work.”

A third option: Try deep reading on paper. Open a physical book (start with something you want to read for pleasure), set an alarm for 20 minutes, put your phone on silent mode, and make yourself read slowly and deliberately.

After you’ve tried out one of these strategies, reflect on how it went for you using the following prompts. You might share your experiences with your classmates.

How easy or difficult was it to sustain your attention using this strategy? Were you able to focus better than you usually do? What challenges did you encounter?

When you did get distracted, what do you think caused it? Did a notification on your phone interrupt you? Did you self-interrupt? Did your brain just need a break? What does this tell you about yourself, and what might help you to stay focused next time?

As Dr. Mark notes, improving your concentration takes practice. Do you think you will continue using this strategy when you need to focus? Why or why not? How do you think increasing your attention span could improve your life?

Find more lesson plans and teaching ideas here.

Natalie Proulx joined The Learning Network as a staff editor in 2017 after working as an English language arts teacher and curriculum writer. More about Natalie Proulx

Put a stop to deadline pressure, and have your homework done by an expert.

How To Focus On Homework And Score Top Grades (Really)

The term homework is one that many students would rather not hear mentioned. Furthermore, the subject of homework has sparked such a heated debate among scholars – is it necessary or not? However, this article’s focus is to help students at all levels learn how to stay focused while doing homework.

If homework is not your favorite, do not skip this post. You never know what the end of it holds for you.

What Is Homework?

Although this may be a cliché to many already, it would be prudent to have a working definition to guide this discussion. As the root word suggests, homework is schoolwork done outside school – especially at home. Teachers may assign homework based on:

What the students have learned that day in class What the teacher intents to teach the following day Some of the concepts that brought difficulty to the students

Students are therefore required to carry this assignment at home and complete it on their own. However, as we will see in our discussion, this is not always easy. Most students, whether kindergarten kids, college or university students, have trouble focusing on their homework.

How To Focus On Homework – Why Is It Necessary?

Research has shown that homework plays a critical role in the life of any student. Some of the reasons why homework assignments are necessary to include:

• It helps students understand concepts better.
• Teachers can gauge the understanding of the students
• It keeps students engaged while at home
• Parents can be part of their student’s academic journey through such tasks.

Therefore, all students need to learn how to focus on homework to achieve the above objectives and more. Learning how to stay focused on assignment is necessary in the following manner:

Students will be able to complete assignments on time. When students know how to ward off any homework distractions, they can fully concentrate on their homework and complete it on time. It helps them write correct answers. Students who know how to focus on homework can research well and develop the right solutions for their assignments. They will also be able to avoid minor grammatical and spellings errors in their papers. It makes a complex assignment seem easy! With a total concentration on a particular homework problem, students can easily find answers even to the most challenging issues.

That is why you need to master how to concentrate on h/w. It is a skill that has helped many students finish their assignments and score top-tier grades even at the college level. You are not an exception either! Once you cultivate the skill of how to focus better on homework, the returns will be rewarding.

But why can’t I focus on homework? You may ask.

Can’t Focus On Homework? Here Is Why?

• A long day at school: The long, tiresome school activities can wear you out to the point of failing to focus on your homework. Some may not even want to see their books anywhere close to them.
• Complex assignments: Some of the technical tasks can turn you off completely. For instance, failing to find an answer after four or more attempts can make you lose your concentration.
• Unfinished businesses: In the process of trying to complete your homework, you may remember an errand you were to make. Sometimes, you may have promised to pay a courtesy call to a particular friend. All these will raise a sense of anxiety in you and derail your concentration levels.
• Environmental factors: There are times when the downpour is so heavy that you lose concentration. A stubborn bird that likes to rest next to your window can also be a distraction.
• Emotional disorders: Although many may not know this, emotions and attitudes play a crucial role in concentration. If you are experiencing any form of emotional instability, you may not be able to complete your assignment as planned.
• Noise from around: Your neighbor might decide to show you how loud his home theatre system can go. Your siblings might also distract by noise from their toys or video games. None of these will keep your mind fully on the homework.
• You might be lazy! Please don’t feel like I am too hard on you. Laziness is a common thing that affects everyone – even the president feels sluggish at times! It can distract a student from focusing on the homework and completing it.

All these might distract you to the point of screaming (like I did some time last year). However, there are working tips and advice from expert writers that can help you concentrate on homework. Let’s have a look at them.

What To Do When You Can’t Focus On Homework

Use the following tricks to focus when doing your homework:

• Get some rest after coming home from school: The human mind also gets tired, just like any other body part. Therefore, you can take a shower and a little nap after school before engaging in your homework. A fresh mind is a catalyst to total concentration.
• Have all the materials you need beforehand: It is essential to assemble all the tools necessary for your homework before starting. Collate all the stationery and refreshments you may need in advance. It prevents getting up now and then to get a forgotten ruler or calculator from the other room or classmate next door.
• Choose the best time for completing your homework: Research shows that the mind works best early in the morning. You can decide to rest early and wake up in the morning to complete your assignment. After all, your stubborn siblings and the noisy neighbor will not be awake by this time.
• Have an order of completing your tasks: For instance, math homework can contain both problematic and simple sums. You can alternate these two so that you do not end up tackling five technical aggregates at the same time that will drain you off quickly.
• Get rid of destructions: Things such as music, television, computers, mobile phones, and other electronic gadgets can be a huge distraction. It would be wise of you to put them away when completing your homework not to be distracted. If possible, you can switch them off.
• Complete urgent errands first: Before sitting down to begin your homework, ensure that you have completed every chore you were assigned. It will enable you to focus your mind entirely on your task and not on the incomplete errands you have to go.
• Make a cup of coffee! It can do the magic perfectly well. When you feel like your concentration levels are getting low, especially during the night, you can make one for yourself. It will also keep you from dosing off amid the work.
• Listening to soft, soothing music: Psychologists say that the mind works best when a conducive environment is created. Slow music playing in the background can help maintain your concentration levels during studying. However, loud music is not recommended for such cases.
• Take a glass of water: Long hours of completing assignments can dehydrate your brain. The result of this is loss of concentration. Taking water hydrates it and thus increases brain activity. You will be able to focus on your homework once again as if you just began.
• Keep your mind up and alert: Psychologists have recommended chewing gum as a way of engaging your mind and keeping it active. It will help you maintain focus on your homework to the end.
• Avoid sugary foods: Things like sweets, chocolate, juice, or biscuits are a no-go zone if you wish to focus on your homework. They will only work to reduce your brain activity and make you sleepy.

The tips discussed above are only practical when implemented. Some of them may require you to push yourself to the limit, but they are necessary if you want to score top-notch grades. Remember that practice makes perfect!

How To Do Homework Without Getting Distracted During COVID-19

The coronavirus pandemic struck the whole world with a bang destabilizing almost every system. Education has not been spared either, and students have to adopt new and creative ways of completing homework amid the pandemic.

Here are some expert ideas:

• Limit your exposure to COVID-19 related news: The more you watch the news or read social media posts on coronavirus, the more you get anxious and distracted. Get verifiable facts from the WHO website or trusted government sources. These will reduce panic and give you ample time to complete your homework without losing focus.
• Adhering to the coronavirus prevention protocols: By following the laid down measures, you will not have to start doubting yourself when completing your homework. For instance, if you washed your hands, avoided physical contact, and wore your mask all day while in school, you would not have to fear the risk of exposure to the virus.
• Staying calm and composed: It is essential to focus your mind on the homework rather than the mere gossip you’ve heard all day long concerning the virus. A calm and composed mind will focus on the need of the hour, which is the homework and not any other thing.

Although the virus has ravaged the whole world in diverse ways, remaining optimistic will give you the calm mind necessary for completing your homework.

How To Stop Getting Distracted From Homework In Remote Learning

Most schools have adopted the distance learning approach, and students must complete their homework online. It comes with its fair share of distractions which may hinder effectiveness in the completion of tasks.

However, you can put off homework distractions in remote learning with the following tactics:

• Avoid visiting unnecessary sites: When conducting your research online, refrain from visiting places such as YouTube or Netflix to check the latest music or movies. Doing this will help you focus on the assignment at hand.
• Make sure that your laptop accessories are working: These include the laptop charger, mouse, or keyboard. When all these are in perfect condition, you will complete your homework online with ease.
• Have a stable internet connection: Remote learning depends on internet connectivity, and any interference on this can bring overwhelming frustrations on the part of the student. That is why you have to ensure that you have the proper bandwidth for completing your assignment online.
• Avoid the temptation of browsing outside the homework scope: While online, you might remember a particular fact or feature you wanted to Google during the day. It will only serve to take your focus away from the homework. Stick to your homework scope and do not deviate.
• Avoid social media sites as plague: You might think to yourself, ‘let me see what people are talking about on Twitter for two minutes, then come back to my assignment.’ The two minutes can end up being two hours. Social media sites have a way of attracting you and making your stay there all day long.

With the advancements in technology, computers can now know your preferences and automatically present to you what you like. Clicking on a link or visiting a site that is irrelevant to your homework will distract your attention. If possible, block any ads that may pop up in your remote learning course, as this may make you lose focus.

Final Words On How To Focus On Homework

We have seen the necessity of homework, some of the distractions, and how to handle them. Remember that homework, just like any other assignment in class, requires your maximum attentiveness. In some institutions, task amounts to the final grades, making it necessary to handle it with utmost precision.

Perhaps you have tried any of the expert tips above and still failed to focus; we are here to offer you quality homework assistance. You will find suggestions on how to focus on homework and experts who can help you complete those tedious homework problems.

Are you aspiring to score an A+ with professional writing help? We are here for you! Let us relieve you of that homework burden and give you all the time you need to socialize with your friends.

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Daniel Wong

30 Tips to Stop Procrastinating and Find Motivation to Do Homework

Updated on June 6, 2023 By Daniel Wong 44 Comments

To stop procrastinating on homework, you need to find motivation to do the homework in the first place.

But first, you have to overcome feeling too overwhelmed to even start.

You know what it feels like when everything hits you at once, right?

You have three tests to study for and a math assignment due tomorrow.

And you’ve got a history report due the day after.

You tell yourself to get down to work. But with so much to do, you feel overwhelmed.

So you procrastinate.

You check your social media feed, watch a few videos, and get yourself a drink. But you know that none of this is bringing you closer to getting the work done.

Does this sound familiar?

Don’t worry – you are not alone. Procrastination is a problem that everyone faces, but there are ways around it.

By following the tips in this article, you’ll be able to overcome procrastination and consistently find the motivation to do the homework .

So read on to discover 30 powerful tips to help you stop procrastinating on your homework.

Enter your email below to download a PDF summary of this article. The PDF contains all the tips found here, plus  3 exclusive bonus tips that you’ll only find in the PDF.

How to stop procrastinating and motivate yourself to do your homework.

Procrastination when it comes to homework isn’t just an issue of laziness or a lack of motivation .

The following tips will help you to first address the root cause of your procrastination and then implement strategies to keep your motivation levels high.

1. Take a quiz to see how much you procrastinate.

The first step to changing your behavior is to become more self-aware.

How often do you procrastinate? What kinds of tasks do you tend to put off? Is procrastination a small or big problem for you?

To answer these questions, I suggest that you take this online quiz designed by Psychology Today .

2. Figure out why you’re procrastinating.

Procrastination is a complex issue that involves multiple factors.

Stop thinking of excuses for not doing your homework , and figure out what’s keeping you from getting started.

Are you procrastinating because:

• You’re not sure you’ll be able to solve all the homework problems?
• You’re subconsciously rebelling against your teachers or parents?
• You’re not interested in the subject or topic?
• You’re physically or mentally tired?
• You’re waiting for the perfect time to start?
• You don’t know where to start?

Once you’ve identified exactly why you’re procrastinating, you can pick out the tips in this article that will get to the root of the problem.

3. Write down what you’re procrastinating on.

Students tend to procrastinate when they’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed.

But you might be surprised to discover that simply by writing down the specific tasks you’re putting off, the situation will feel more manageable.

It’s a quick solution, and it makes a real difference.

Give it a try and you’ll be less likely to procrastinate.

4. Put your homework on your desk.

Here’s an even simpler idea.

Many times, the hardest part of getting your homework done is getting started.

It doesn’t require a lot of willpower to take out your homework and put it on your desk.

But once it’s sitting there in front of you, you’ll be much closer to actually getting down to work.

5. Break down the task into smaller steps.

This one trick will make any task seem more manageable.

For example, if you have a history report to write, you could break it down into the following steps:

• Read the history textbook
• Do online research
• Organize the information
• Create an outline
• Write the introduction
• Write the body paragraphs
• Write the conclusion
• Edit and proofread the report

Focus on just one step at a time. This way, you won’t need to motivate yourself to write the whole report at one go.

This is an important technique to use if you want to study smart and get more done .

6. Create a detailed timeline with specific deadlines.

As a follow-up to Point #5, you can further combat procrastination by creating a timeline with specific deadlines.

Using the same example above, I’ve added deadlines to each of the steps:

• Jan 30 th : Read the history textbook
• Feb 2 nd : Do online research
• Feb 3 rd : Organize the information
• Feb 5 th : Create an outline
• Feb 8 th : Write the introduction
• Feb 12 th : Write the body paragraphs
• Feb 14 th : Write the conclusion
• Feb 16 th : Edit and proofread the report

Assigning specific dates creates a sense of urgency, which makes it more likely that you’ll keep to the deadlines.

7. Spend time with people who are focused and hardworking.

Jim Rohn famously said that you’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.

If you hang out with people who are motivated and hardworking, you’ll become more like them.

Likewise, if you hang out with people who continually procrastinate, you’ll become more like them too.

Motivation to do homework naturally increases when you surround yourself with the right people.

So choose your friends wisely. Find homework buddies who will influence you positively to become a straight-A student who leads a balanced life.

That doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun! It just means that you and your friends know when it’s time to get down to work and when it’s time to enjoy yourselves.

8. Tell at least two or three people about the tasks you plan to complete.

When you tell others about the tasks you intend to finish, you’ll be more likely to follow through with your plans.

This is called “accountability,” and it kicks in because you want to be seen as someone who keeps your word.

So if you know about this principle, why not use it to your advantage?

You could even ask a friend to be your accountability buddy. At the beginning of each day, you could text each other what you plan to work on that day.

Then at the end of the day, you could check in with each other to see if things went according to plan.

9. Change your environment .

Maybe it’s your environment that’s making you feel sluggish.

When you’re doing your homework, is your super-comfortable bed just two steps away? Or is your distracting computer within easy reach?

If your environment is part of your procrastination problem, then change it.

Sometimes all you need is a simple change of scenery. Bring your work to the dining room table and get it done there. Or head to a nearby café to complete your report.

10. Talk to people who have overcome their procrastination problem.

If you have friends who consistently win the battle with procrastination, learn from their experience.

What was the turning point for them? What tips and strategies do they use? What keeps them motivated?

Find all this out, and then apply the information to your own situation.

11. Decide on a reward to give yourself after you complete your task.

“Planned” rewards are a great way to motivate yourself to do your homework.

The reward doesn’t have to be something huge.

For instance, you might decide that after you finish 10 questions of your math homework, you get to watch your favorite TV show.

Or you might decide that after reading one chapter of your history textbook, you get to spend 10 minutes on Facebook.

By giving yourself a reward, you’ll feel more motivated to get through the task at hand.

12. Decide on a consequence you’ll impose on yourself if you don’t meet the deadline.

It’s important that you decide on what the consequence will be before you start working toward your goal.

As an example, you could tell your younger brother that you’ll give him $1 for every deadline you don’t meet (see Point #6).

Or you could decide that you’ll delete one game from your phone for every late homework submission.

Those consequences would probably be painful enough to help you get down to work, right?

13. Visualize success.

Take 30 seconds and imagine how you’ll feel when you finish your work.

What positive emotions will you experience?

Will you feel a sense of satisfaction from getting all your work done?

Will you relish the extra time on your hands when you get your homework done fast and ahead of time?

This simple exercise of visualizing success may be enough to inspire you to start doing your assignment.

14. Visualize the process it will take to achieve that success.

Even more important than visualizing the outcome is visualizing the process it will take to achieve that outcome.

Research shows that focusing on the process is critical to success. If you’re procrastinating on a task, take a few moments to think about what you’ll need to do to complete it.

Visualize the following:

• What resources you’ll need
• Who you can turn to for help
• How long the task will take
• Where you’ll work on the task
• The joy you’ll experience as you make progress

This kind of visualization is like practice for your mind.

Once you understand what’s necessary to achieve your goal, you’ll find that it’s much easier to get down to work with real focus. This is key to doing well in school .

15. Write down why you want to complete the task.

You’ll be more motivated when you’re clear about why you want to accomplish something.

To motivate yourself to do your homework, think about all the ways in which it’s a meaningful task.

So take a couple of minutes to write down the reasons. Here are some possible ones:

• Learn useful information
• Master the topic
• Enjoy a sense of accomplishment when you’ve completed the task
• Become a more focused student
• Learn to embrace challenges
• Fulfill your responsibility as a student
• Get a good grade on the assignment

16. Write down the negative feelings you’ll have if you don’t complete the task.

If you don’t complete the assignment, you might feel disappointed or discouraged. You might even feel as if you’ve let your parents or your teacher – or even yourself – down.

It isn’t wise to dwell on these negative emotions for too long. But by imagining how you’ll feel if you don’t finish the task, you’ll realize how important it is that you get to work.

17. Do the hardest task first.

Most students will choose to do the easiest task first, rather than the hardest one. But this approach isn’t effective because it leaves the worst for last.

It’s more difficult to find motivation to do homework in less enjoyable subjects.

As Brian Tracy says , “Eat that frog!” By this, he means that you should always get your most difficult task out of the way at the beginning of the day.

If math is your least favorite subject, force yourself to complete your math homework first.

After doing so, you’ll feel a surge of motivation from knowing it’s finished. And you won’t procrastinate on your other homework because it will seem easier in comparison.

(On a separate note, check out these tips on how to get better at math if you’re struggling.)

18. Set a timer when doing your homework.

I recommend that you use a stopwatch for every homework session. (If you prefer, you could also use this online stopwatch or the Tomato Timer .)

Start the timer at the beginning of the session, and work in 30- to 45-minute blocks.

Using a timer creates a sense of urgency, which will help you fight off your urge to procrastinate.

When you know you only have to work for a short session, it will be easier to find motivation to complete your homework.

Tell yourself that you need to work hard until the timer goes off, and then you can take a break. (And then be sure to take that break!)

19. Eliminate distractions.

Here are some suggestions on how you can do this:

• Delete all the games and social media apps on your phone
• Turn off all notifications on your phone
• Mute your group chats
• Archive your inactive chats
• Turn off your phone, or put it on airplane mode
• Put your phone at least 10 feet away from you
• Turn off the Internet access on your computer
• Use an app like Freedom to restrict your Internet usage
• Put any other distractions (like food, magazines and books unrelated to your homework) at the other end of the room
• Unplug the TV
• Use earplugs if your surroundings are noisy

20. At the start of each day, write down the two to three Most Important Tasks (MITs) you want to accomplish.

This will enable you to prioritize your tasks. As Josh Kaufman explains , a Most Important Task (MIT) is a critical task that will help you to get significant results down the road.

Not all tasks are equally important. That’s why it’s vital that you identify your MITs, so that you can complete those as early in the day as possible.

What do you most need to get done today? That’s an MIT.

Get to work on it, then feel the satisfaction that comes from knowing it’s out of the way.

21. Focus on progress instead of perfection.

Perfectionism can destroy your motivation to do homework and keep you from starting important assignments.

Some students procrastinate because they’re waiting for the perfect time to start.

Others do so because they want to get their homework done perfectly. But they know this isn’t really possible – so they put off even getting started.

What’s the solution?

To focus on progress instead of perfection.

There’s never a perfect time for anything. Nor will you ever be able to complete your homework perfectly. But you can do your best, and that’s enough.

So concentrate on learning and improving, and turn this into a habit that you implement whenever you study .

22. Get organized.

Procrastination is common among students who are disorganized.

When you can’t remember which assignment is due when or which tests you have coming up, you’ll naturally feel confused. You’ll experience school- and test-related stress .

This, in turn, will lead to procrastination.

That’s why it’s crucial that you get organized. Here are some tips for doing this:

• Don’t rely on your memory ; write everything down
• Keep a to-do list
• Use a student planner
• Use a calendar and take note of important dates like exams, project due dates, school holidays , birthdays, and family events
• At the end of each day, plan for the following day
• Use one binder or folder for each subject or course
• Do weekly filing of your loose papers, notes, and old homework
• Throw away all the papers and notes you no longer need

23. Stop saying “I have to” and start saying “I choose to.”

When you say things like “I have to write my essay” or “I have to finish my science assignment,” you’ll probably feel annoyed. You might be tempted to complain about your teachers or your school .

What’s the alternative?

To use the phrase “I choose to.”

The truth is, you don’t “have” to do anything.

You can choose not to write your essay; you’ll just run the risk of failing the class.

You can choose not to do your science assignment; you’ll just need to deal with your angry teacher.

When you say “I choose to do my homework,” you’ll feel empowered. This means you’ll be more motivated to study and to do what you ought to.

24. Clear your desk once a week.

Clutter can be demotivating. It also causes stress , which is often at the root of procrastination.

Hard to believe? Give it a try and see for yourself.

By clearing your desk, you’ll reduce stress and make your workspace more organized.

So set a recurring appointment to organize your workspace once a week for just 10 minutes. You’ll receive huge benefits in the long run!

25. If a task takes two minutes or less to complete, do it now.

This is a principle from David Allen’s bestselling book, Getting Things Done .

You may notice that you tend to procrastinate when many tasks pile up. The way to prevent this from happening is to take care of the small but important tasks as soon as you have time.

Here are some examples of small two-minute tasks that you should do once you have a chance:

• Replying to your project group member’s email
• Picking up anything on the floor that doesn’t belong there
• Asking your parents to sign a consent form
• Filing a graded assignment
• Making a quick phone call
• Writing a checklist
• Sending a text to schedule a meeting
• Making an online purchase that doesn’t require further research

26. Finish one task before starting on the next.

You aren’t being productive when you switch between working on your literature essay, social studies report, and physics problem set – while also intermittently checking your phone.

Research shows that multitasking is less effective than doing one thing at a time. Multitasking may even damage your brain !

When it comes to overcoming procrastination, it’s better to stick with one task all the way through before starting on the next one.

You’ll get a sense of accomplishment when you finish the first assignment, which will give you a boost of inspiration as you move on to the next one.

27. Build your focus gradually.

You can’t win the battle against procrastination overnight; it takes time. This means that you need to build your focus progressively.

If you can only focus for 10 minutes at once, that’s fine. Start with three sessions of 10 minutes a day. After a week, increase it to three sessions of 15 minutes a day, and so on.

As the weeks go by, you’ll become far more focused than when you first started. And you’ll soon see how great that makes you feel.

28. Before you start work, write down three things you’re thankful for.

Gratitude improves your psychological health and increases your mental strength .

These factors are linked to motivation. The more you practice gratitude, the easier it will be to find motivation to do your homework. As such, it’s less likely that you’ll be a serial procrastinator.

Before you get down to work for the day, write down three things you’re thankful for. These could be simple things like good health, fine weather, or a loving family.

You could even do this in a “gratitude journal,” which you can then look back on whenever you need a shot of fresh appreciation for the good things in your life.

Either way, this short exercise will get you in the right mindset to be productive.

29. Get enough sleep.

For most people, this means getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night. And teenagers need 8 to 10 hours of sleep a night to function optimally.

What does sleep have to do with procrastination?

More than you might realize.

It’s almost impossible to feel motivated when you’re tired. And when you’re low on energy, your willpower is depleted too.

That’s why you give in to the temptation of Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube videos more easily when you’re sleep-deprived.

Here are ways to get more sleep , and sleep better too:

• Create a bedtime routine
• Go to sleep at around the same time every night
• Set a daily alarm as a reminder to go to bed
• Exercise regularly (but not within a few hours of bedtime)
• Make your bedroom as dark as possible
• Remove or switch off all electronic devices before bedtime
• Avoid caffeine at least six hours before bedtime
• Use an eye mask and earplugs

30. Schedule appointments with yourself to complete your homework.

These appointments are specific blocks of time reserved for working on a report, assignment, or project. Scheduling appointments is effective because it makes the task more “official,” so you’re more likely to keep the appointment.

For example, you could schedule appointments such as:

• Jan 25 th , 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm: Math assignment
• Jan 27 th , 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Online research for social studies project
• Jan 28 th , 4:30 pm – 5:00 pm: Write introduction for English essay

Transform homework procrastination into homework motivation

Procrastination is a problem we all face.

But given that you’ve read all the way to here, I know you’re committed to overcoming this problem.

And now that you’re armed with these tips, you have all the tools you need to become more disciplined and focused .

By the way, please don’t feel as if you need to implement all the tips at once, because that would be too overwhelming.

Instead, I recommend that you focus on just a couple of tips a week, and make gradual progress. No rush!

Over time, you’ll realize that your habit of procrastination has been replaced by the habit of getting things done.

Now’s the time to get started on that process of transformation. 🙂

Like this article? Please share it with your friends.

Images: Student and books , Homework , Group of students , Consequences , Why , Writing a list , Organized desk , Gratitude

January 19, 2016 at 11:53 am

Ur tips are rlly helpful. Thnkyou ! 🙂

January 19, 2016 at 1:43 pm

You’re welcome 🙂

August 29, 2018 at 11:21 am

Thanks very much

February 19, 2019 at 1:38 pm

The funny thing is while I was reading the first few steps of this article I was procrastinating on my homework….

November 12, 2019 at 12:44 pm

same here! but now I actually want to get my stuff done… huh

December 4, 2022 at 11:35 pm

May 30, 2023 at 6:26 am

October 25, 2023 at 11:35 am

fr tho i totally was but now I’m actually going to get started haha

June 6, 2020 at 6:04 am

I love your articles

January 21, 2016 at 7:07 pm

Thanks soo much. It’s almost like you could read my mind- when I felt so overwhelmed with the workload heap I had created for myself by procrastination, I know feel very motivated to tackle it out completely and replace that bad habit with the wonderful tips mentioned here! 🙂

January 21, 2016 at 8:04 pm

I’m glad to help 🙂

January 25, 2016 at 3:09 pm

You have shared great tips here. I especially like the point “Write down why you want to complete the task” because it is helpful to make us more motivated when we are clear about our goals

January 25, 2016 at 4:51 pm

Glad that you found the tips useful, John!

January 29, 2016 at 1:22 am

Thank you very much for your wonderful tips!!! ☺☺☺

January 29, 2016 at 10:41 am

It’s my joy to help, Kabir 🙂

February 3, 2016 at 12:57 pm

Always love your articles. Keep them up 🙂

February 3, 2016 at 1:21 pm

Thanks, Matthew 🙂

February 4, 2016 at 1:40 pm

There are quite a lot of things that you need to do in order to come out with flying colors while studying in a university away from your homeland. Procrastinating on homework is one of the major mistakes committed by students and these tips will help you to avoid them all and make yourself more efficient during your student life.

February 4, 2016 at 1:58 pm

Completely agreed, Leong Siew.

October 5, 2018 at 12:52 am

Wow! thank you very much, I love it .

November 2, 2018 at 10:45 am

You are helping me a lot.. thank you very much….😊

November 6, 2018 at 5:19 pm

I’m procrastinating by reading this

November 29, 2018 at 10:21 am

January 8, 2021 at 3:38 am

March 3, 2019 at 9:12 am

Daniel, your amazing information and advice, has been very useful! Please keep up your excellent work!

April 12, 2019 at 11:12 am

We should stop procrastinating.

September 28, 2019 at 5:19 pm

Thank you so much for the tips:) i’ve been procrastinating since i started high schools and my grades were really bad “F” but the tips have made me a straight A student again.

January 23, 2020 at 7:43 pm

Thanks for the tips, Daniel! They’re really useful! 😁

April 10, 2020 at 2:15 pm

I have always stood first in my class. But procrastination has always been a very bad habit of mine which is why I lost marks for late submission .As an excuse for finding motivation for studying I would spend hours on the phone and I would eventually procrastinate. So I tried your tips and tricks today and they really worked.i am so glad and thankful for your help. 🇮🇳Love from India🇮🇳

April 15, 2020 at 11:16 am

Well I’m gonna give this a shot it looks and sounds very helpful thank you guys I really needed this

April 16, 2020 at 9:48 pm

Daniel, your amazing information and advice, has been very useful! keep up your excellent work! May you give more useful content to us.

May 6, 2020 at 5:03 pm

nice article thanks for your sharing.

May 20, 2020 at 4:49 am

Thank you so much this helped me so much but I was wondering about like what if you just like being lazy and stuff and don’t feel like doing anything and you don’t want to tell anyone because you might annoy them and you just don’t want to add your problems and put another burden on theirs

July 12, 2020 at 1:55 am

I’ve read many short procrastination tip articles and always thought they were stupid or overlooking the actual problem. ‘do this and this’ or that and that, and I sit there thinking I CAN’T. This article had some nice original tips that I actually followed and really did make me feel a bit better. Cheers, diving into what will probably be a 3 hour case study.

August 22, 2020 at 10:14 pm

Nicely explain each tips and those are practical thanks for sharing. Dr.Achyut More

November 11, 2020 at 12:34 pm

Thanks a lot! It was very helpful!

November 15, 2020 at 9:11 am

I keep catching myself procrastinating today. I started reading this yesterday, but then I realized I was procrastinating, so I stopped to finish it today. Thank you for all the great tips.

November 30, 2020 at 5:15 pm

Woow this is so great. Thanks so much Daniel

December 3, 2020 at 3:13 am

These tips were very helpful!

December 18, 2020 at 11:54 am

Procrastination is a major problem of mine, and this, this is very helpful. It is very motivational, now I think I can complete my work.

December 28, 2020 at 2:44 pm

Daniel Wong: When you’re doing your homework, is your super-comfortable bed just two steps away? Me: Nope, my super-comfortable bed is one step away. (But I seriously can’t study anywhere else. If I go to the dining table, my mum would be right in front of me talking loudly on the phone with colleagues and other rooms is an absolute no. My mum doesn’t allow me to go outside. Please give me some suggestions. )

September 19, 2022 at 12:14 pm

I would try and find some noise cancelling headphones to play some classical music or get some earbuds to ignore you mum lol

March 1, 2021 at 5:46 pm

Thank you very much. I highly appreciate it.

May 12, 2023 at 3:38 am

This is great advice. My little niece is now six years old and I like to use those nice cheap child friendly workbooks with her. This is done in order to help her to learn things completely on her own. I however prefer to test her on her own knowledge however. After a rather quick demonstration in the lesson I then tend to give her two simple questions to start off with. And it works a treat. Seriously. I love it. She loves it. The exam questions are for her to answer on her own on a notepad. If she can, she will receive a gold medal and a box of sweets. If not she only gets a plastic toy. We do this all the time to help her understand. Once a week we spend up to thirty minutes in a math lesson on this technique for recalling the basic facts. I have had a lot of great success with this new age technique. So I’m going to carry on with it for now.

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How to Focus on Homework and Stop Procrastinating

It happens every day. There’s the ever-piling list of things to do.

You can continue to sleep in, but it won’t disappear. And while we know you don’t want to hear it, every decision you’re making now impacts your future. Better grades mean more opportunities after high school.

We know completing homework can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. There are a few easy changes you can implement now to start seeing improvements today. Check out the tips below.

Tips to Focus on Homework

Tip 1: exercise first.

Studies show that cardio-based exercises boost your memory and thinking skills. Cardio based means doing something that accelerates your heart rate. This can include jogging, riding a bike, playing a sport or anything you like to do that’s fast-paced.

If you exercise right before starting schoolwork, it will get your blood flowing. This will help your brain become more active and ready to focus on homework.

Tip 2: Set a Routine

With the benefit of flexibility in online schooling comes the need for discipline. As Primavera Principal Donald Mitchell said:

“To be successful in your courses…create a daily schedule for yourself.  Remember, you are required to spend at least three hours on each course that you are assigned on a daily basis.”

In other words, it can be easy to fall behind. But it’s also easy to stay on track if you stick to a schedule.

How to Make a Schedule:

• Get a planner, or use a free online application. A planner is still the best way to stay organized.
• Think about your week; include every plan. Write everything you want and need to do that week. Do you want to fit in some time to skateboard? Great! Schedule it in. Just remember: Try to be active right before starting coursework!

“If you are a night person, then be a night person.  If you know you only like to work online for 30 minutes at a time, then plan breaks between your 30 minutes.” – Mrs. Lauree Russell, Primavera math instructor.

• Stick to your schedule. Things happen, and you might have to adjust your schedule. But stick to it, even when it’s time to do something you’re not looking forward to. If you decided to start that project Tuesday at 2 p.m., that’s when you need to do it.
• Keep writing out your weekly schedule It takes work and a lot of upkeep, but stay motivated. Don’t fall behind on that planner.

When planning, try to do schoolwork about the same time every day, in a familiar location. It will do wonders for your brain! It won’t take long before your brain automatically recognizes that it’s homework time. Then you won’t have to take as long to get started.

Tip 3: Be Prepared

If you have to stop what you’re doing to go grab a snack or a notebook, you’re going to get distracted.

“Have all the materials you need to work ready to go before you start each day,” said Primavera Executive Director of Academics Sarah Gamble. “Keep a list of your teacher’s and guidance counselor’s phone numbers, note taking materials, your daily schedule, a glass of water and you are ready to go. This will keep you from getting distracted when you have to leave your work to go find something.”

Tip 4: Establish a WorkSpace

We’re not saying you have to go to the store right now and drop hundreds on a desk, chair and supplies. Your workspace doesn’t have to be traditional. But it does need to be a set place in order to better focus on homework.

Maybe that place is an office in your home. Or perhaps you have a fuzzy bean bag in your room that you love. Whatever you choose, make it a habit, and make sure you’re comfortable to work. After all, that bean bag might be comfy to relax in, but might not be best once you have a laptop and notebook to juggle.

“Make sure your chair is comfy, your computer screen is at eye level and your favorite items are next to your computer,” said Mrs. Russell. This can be items like photos, music, lotion, candles or a favorite soda.”

Primavera instructor Amber Day also suggests that you separate your workspace from your sleep space.

“If you do homework in your bed where you sleep, it’s likely going to make you want to take a nap rather than do math homework,” said Ms. Day. “Go somewhere you know you won’t get distracted (or leave) until you finish homework. Make that your routine and doing homework there will become as natural as taking a nap in your bed is.”

For more tips on organizing your workspace, head to this blog post .

Tip 5: Remove All Distractions

 A distraction is anything that deters you from working on courses. This can range from music to your loud little brother.

Let’s take a moment to talk about those smartphones. They’re more detrimental to your homework than you might think.

A study showed that having your phone on silent isn’t enough. Small disturbances like a screen notification could increase errors in your work. It also could prolong the time it takes to complete assignments. Here’s why:

As a researcher from the study stated, “Although these notifications are generally short in duration, they can prompt… mind-wandering, which has been shown to damage task performance” ( PsychCentral ).

Even just being aware of a missed call, an unread text or another notification causes your brain to lose focus on homework. It knows there is something else to do, and it diverts your attention.

We recommend setting all smart devices (phone, tablet, etc) in another room. If you are able to forget about it, you will likely finish your homework quicker and make fewer mistakes.

“Turn off your phone, video games, and yes, even your annoying little brother,” said Mrs. Russell. “You might need to consider moving your laptop in a private space or a closet if necessary (smile).”

It’s also best to ask your friends and family not to disturb you during homework.

“Talk to your friends and family about how they can support you,” said Mrs. Benjamin-Baker. “If you work on schoolwork from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. each day, tell your friends not to text or call during this time.”

Tip 6: Take Notes

Physically writing on a notebook improves your memory . So if you want to do better on homework and exams, try writing down notes.

“Although we use computers for everything, you are more apt to remember something if you write it down. Write words, draw pictures, use color! Anything you do that will allow you to touch  what you are learning will help!” – Sarah Gamble, executive director of academics.

Tip 7: Take Breaks

The beauty of online school is that you can take breaks whenever you need. Do you have a hard time staying focused for long periods of time? Then break it up. Try studying for 30 minutes at a time. Remove all distractions and set a timer.

Once the 30 minutes is up, take a 15-minute break, but do something active! Get up and move around, go for a run. Do something other than sitting.

After 15 minutes, you can return ready to focus on homework. See if you can increase to 45 minutes before taking your next 15-minute break.

Tips to Stop Procrastinating 

So, now you know what to do in order to clear your mind and stay focused on your homework. But actually starting is the hardest part, right? If you’re needing motivation, try these tips.

Tip 1:  Create Rewards to Stay Motivated

If you know you have six assignments to complete in a day, then set aside a small reward for each.

“Know your weaknesses and turn them into rewards,” said Mrs. Benjamin-Baker. “If you like to surf YouTube videos or SnapChat with friends, then reward yourself with these activities AFTER you complete your schoolwork, but not until then.”

 Tip 2: When you get bored, get up and move

As Mrs. Russell said:

“Take a short break and turn on your favorite YouTube music video and have a dance fest. Getting your blood circulating will help your brain and spirit.  Nothin’ like rockin’ out to your fave music! Now this is the way to do homework, right??!!!”

By breaking up coursework with small, fun tasks, your brain will have more positive associations. This might help you dread starting less.

Tip 3: Reach out to your guidance counselor

Your guidance counselor’s job is to help you with your academic struggles. If you are having trouble starting coursework, reach out to your counselor for help. They are state-certified and dedicated to you.

To learn more about Primavera’s guidance department, head to this blog post .

Coursework is never easy, we know. But by following the tips above, it can become less stressful, and you will be able to stay more focused.

We’ll leave you with one last quote:

“I am here to tell you that you have the power to be as successful as you want to be. Never let others dictate who you are destined to become!” – Donald Mitchel, principal

• Students, do you have tips to focus on homework? Share with us in the comments below!

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A tip of mine: sit down with some candy (I say Sweettarts because in a little study of mine when I was bored these helped me stay focused the best) and a favorite stuffed animal or pet (or both!) and spend five minutes with them or it. Then put the candy and the stuffed animal aside or the pet down or back in it’s cage and start working. When you run out of candy in your mouth, get another one! (Sweetarts usually last about 5 minutes if you suck on them, which I personally think is the best way) Now, this may not be the healthiest way, but it keeps me working, and it’s the only way I’m typing this right now. 🙂 here to help, (and work) Elise.

This is a good article. Very useful tips. I need to apply them to my routine. 🙂

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Courses you teach:

Character Education, Physical Education, Health A, World Religions

What do you enjoy most about being a Primavera teacher?

Having the privilege to be a part of my students’ growth brings great satisfaction.

If you could turn any activity into an Olympic sport, what would you have a good chance at winning a medal for?

Although it’s not an actual activity, I have a talent for catching objects as they are falling and have no doubt I would win a medal for that.

[email protected] .

American History A & B, Middle School Social Studies

Students come to Primavera for a unique variety of reasons. I take pride in playing a role in the success stories of all my students.

Pie eating contests are always fun to watch…that would be a funny Olympic sport

[email protected]

Math 8A, Math 8B, Algebra 1A, Algebra 1B

What do you enjoy most about teaching Primavera students?

I enjoy learning how to connect with my students through technology, as well as helping students succeed in an environment suited for them.

Fitting the most Sour Patch watermelon candies in my mouth

American History A, American History B

Primavera is a no-judgment zone. We never, ever give up on our students.

Keeping AirPods in my ears for more than a minute.

Do you say, “Stop Talking, I Will Win. That’s… What Heroes Do!” to yourself? If you do, then you need to join the High School Manga/Anime club. Come meet with fellow otaku to discuss your favorite anime and manga as well as learning about the Japanese culture that are present in this great form of entertainment. We’ll see you there!

To join a student club, please email our Student Club Director, Ron Campton, at  [email protected]  with the name of the club you are interested in joining.

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Are you ready to create your character and become an epic hero? Then D&D club might be for you! We’re all about the game, and whether you’re just learning or an expert player, we think that it’s your turn to roll for initiative and join us.

Are books your passion? Do you love to just sit down and power through an entire book in a day or two? Do you have a passion for reading and write your own short stories or novels? Book club is a perfect chance for you to read books with fellow students while discussing themes, motifs, character development and story construction!

Are you looking to learn life skills that you will be able to use in the real world? Learn more about taxes, cooking ideas and options, how to do basic auto maintenance, etc. so you are more prepared for the next steps in life!

Are you looking to get out into the world and explore? Do you want to go on hikes, experience new things, and challenge yourself? Adventure club may be the perfect fit! We are planning to go on monthly hikes, get out and enjoy nature, and see what other adventures might be in store!

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How to Focus on Homework: 9 Tips for Teens

Do you find it tough to concentrate on your homework? The more you stare at the assignment in front of you, the more your attention slips away… We’ve been there, and we know how frustrating it can be. The good news is you can turn things around. Completing assignments will be a breeze once you learn how to focus on homework better!

Why You Can’t Focus on Homework

If you’re asking yourself, “Why can’t I focus on homework?” trust that you’re not alone. Many students are wondering the same thing. Teens like you face a unique set of challenges when it comes to concentrating on assignments. That’s why the key to learning how to focus on homework is identifying why you can’t . 

Here are some examples: 

• Outside distractions

One of the most common causes of poor homework focus is outside distractions. We live in a world of buzzing phones, endless notifications, and social media sirens calling our names. It’s no wonder concentrating on homework feels like a battle!

• Homework pileup

Figuring out how to focus on homework would be much easier if you only had one assignment. But that’s not the case. You have multiple tasks from multiple classes competing for your attention. When the homework piles up, the struggle is real.

• Lack of interest

Sometimes, homework issues are due to a lack of interest. Concentrating on homework is hard enough when you’d rather be doing something else. But staying engaged can seem impossible when the subject matter doesn’t interest you. 

Though brain fog typically affects adults, teens like you aren’t immune. Potential causes of brain fog include lack of sleep, poor nutrition, and everyday stress. It can make you feel like your brain is lost in a thick mist. 

• Neurodivergent features

If you’re neurodivergent , there’s a difference in your brain that affects how it works. You have different strengths from your neurotypical peers but also different challenges. In some cases, like with ADHD, it’s especially difficult to stay focused on homework. 

9 Tips for How to Focus on Homework

At this point, you should have a clearer understanding of why concentrating on homework is so challenging. The next step is learning how to focus on homework better . To make things easier for you, we’ve compiled some practical advice. Whether you’re dealing with a mountain of tasks or the distractions of the digital world, the tips below can help. 

1. Fuel Your Body. 

Did you know that snacking can help you focus better? It’s true! Your body needs fuel to do everything, including study. That’s why you should drink plenty of water and eat the right foods to improve concentration . Some good options include blueberries, nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and dark chocolate. 

Also, try to avoid eating heavy meals before study sessions. These can make you feel sluggish. Worse, they can cause your concentration to drop. 

2. Schedule Your Homework Time. 

Another tip for how to focus on homework is to schedule it. You can establish a routine by blocking out time to complete assignments every day. When the time rolls around, you’ll be able to slip into the homework mindset much easier. Of course, things may pop up and force you to reschedule. That’s okay; just try to stick to the same time the best you can. 

Some additional ways to stay on track and focused include the following:

• Set an alarm for homework time. 
• Tell others you’re studying to avoid interruptions. 
• Dedicate time for each assignment. 

Applying these time management techniques can go a long way.

3. Create a Good Study Environment.

When it comes to focusing on homework, the right environment can make all the difference. If you don’t have a dedicated study spot already, create one! Ideally, it should be well-organized, free of distractions, and full of elements that promote concentration. It could be at the desk in your room or at a table in the library. Ultimately, it’s whatever works best for you. 

Sitting down in that spot should let your brain know it’s time to activate study mode. 

4. Use Technology to Your Advantage.

In some cases, technology can make it harder to concentrate on homework; in others, it can make it easier. It’s all in what you use and how you use it. For instance, scrolling through TikTok on your phone isn’t a good idea. But using apps and tools designed to improve focus can be. 

Here are a few suggestions: 

• Wear noise-canceling headphones. 
• Listen to classical, lo-fi, or focus music. 
• Use quizzes, study guides, and flashcard tools.
• Block distracting websites and apps.

When used correctly, technology can help you get into the zone! 

5. Take Regular Breaks.

Do you try to power through your homework without stopping? You may be doing more harm than good! Taking regular breaks is recommended. Getting up from your chair, stretching, and just giving your brain a rest can be beneficial. It lets you come back with fresh eyes and renewed focus. 

6. Embrace Your Learning Style.

Not everyone learns the same way. There are visual learners, auditory learners, tactile learners, and reading/writing learners. Part of figuring out how to focus on homework is embracing your unique learning style. That way, you can engage your brain better. 

Determine which learning style fits you , and go from there. You can improve your concentration and retention by changing how you do your homework!

7. Get Outside Help.

When you’re struggling to focus on homework, sometimes it helps to have support. You may not need a tutor, just someone to hold you accountable. For those with ADHD, this is where “body doubling” comes into play. It’s a practice where you do a task with another person. It sounds pretty straightforward, but it can be very effective.

There are other ways to enlist outside help, too. You can have a family member quiz you or find a study buddy. You can even find an online study community to help you stay on track!

8. Tackle One Task at a Time.

As touched on earlier, having multiple assignments makes it harder to concentrate. But that’s why you need to tackle them one at a time. Make sure to finish a task before moving on to the next. In fact, set aside all other assignments until you’re done. If they’re out of sight, you can focus better on the one in front of you. 

9. Motivate Yourself with Rewards.

Motivation is another factor in learning how to focus on homework. If you’re working toward something, you’re more likely to stay in the zone and finish your task. Consider rewarding yourself by watching an hour of your favorite TV show once you’re done for the night. You can even sprinkle in smaller rewards after each assignment!

Start Improving Your Focus!

Staying engaged when doing homework is tough, but it’s not impossible. Matthew 19:26 says, “… with God, all things are possible.” If you remember this and apply the tips above for how to focus on homework, you’ll be much better off. So, start improving your focus today! And don’t be afraid to reach out to your teachers, parents, or peers if your struggles continue. 

Are you thinking about getting outside help with homework? Check out the Tuesday Study Buddy program available from our God, Games, & Geekery community !

More From Forbes

Navigating the frontier of alternative investments.

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Chris Seveney is CEO of 7e Investments .

Most investors have heard of options like stocks, bonds and mutual funds. But what about racehorses, sneakers and song royalties? Recent regulation changes and technological advancements have opened the door to a wide variety of alternative asset classes, or “alts,” that even non-accredited investors can now invest in. While this newly leveled playing field offers exciting new opportunities, first-time alt investors should complete their due diligence before making a big investment.

The democratization of alternative investments can be traced back to regulatory shifts over the past decade, such as the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act and the updated Regulation A. These changes have enabled companies to raise capital from a broader pool of investors, including non-accredited individuals. While the process was slow at first, these reforms have let sponsors create mass-scale investment opportunities for non-accredited investors.

Properties And Podcasts

Real estate has been a particularly hot ticket in the alternative investment space. Through platforms like Alts Marketplace. individuals can invest directly into funds that were previously only available to accredited investors.. Real estate is always attractive because it’s a secure, physical asset, but now investors can get in the game with lower barriers to entry, with some as low as a few thousand dollars.

Other alts venture into more unusual physical assets. Platforms have emerged that let you invest in limited-edition sneakers and streetwear apparel, aging whiskey and wine casks, and sports memorabilia. Have you ever dreamed of owning a 1952 Mickey Mantle baseball card? Now you can—or at least part of one. Fractional ownership of things like racehorses and music or podcasting royalties can offer investors exposure to income streams that provide a unique alternative to traditional investments.

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Alts offer potential upsides for individual investors such as portfolio diversification, hedging against market volatility and income generation. But they can also involve greater risks than traditional stocks and bonds, primarily because of illiquidity and the lack of centralized transparency of public exchanges like the New York Stock Exchange.

That’s why investors must exercise due diligence when considering alternative investments. This starts with thoroughly reviewing any offering paperwork, requesting audited financials and obtaining third-party track record verification reports whenever possible.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions about communication practices, the sponsor's track record and experience, the potential impact of leverage on returns (particularly in the current economic climate) and the overall viability of the business plan. It’s wise to narrow your choices to a handful of the most promising options, or even just one, and to start with a small investment since many of these alternative instruments don’t require large initial deposits.

Investors should also thoroughly vet the management and integrity of the sponsors behind alternative investment opportunities. Sometimes that’s as simple as a Google search, but it can also include checking relevant forums, podcasts and platforms such as LinkedIn or Bigger Pockets for real estate investments, which can lead to connecting with existing investors to gauge their experiences.

If you’re interested in venturing into the world of alts, you should have a clear understanding of the specific asset class you’re considering and align your risk tolerance accordingly. Examine these options with a healthy dose of skepticism—as always, if an opportunity seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Financial advisors can help with this due diligence, although it’s important to note that not all advisors have experience in alternative investments. It can also be a good idea to consult with legal counsel in the case of larger investments.

While alternative investments offer new opportunities for diversification and returns, entering a new investment space is always a little daunting. Success hinges on a blend of prudent research and strategic guidance to help manage risks effectively.

The information provided here is not investment, tax or financial advice. You should consult with a licensed professional for advice concerning your specific situation.

Forbes Finance Council is an invitation-only organization for executives in successful accounting, financial planning and wealth management firms. Do I qualify?

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