how to focus better while doing homework

• Published on September 15, 2022
• September 15, 2022

How to Focus on Homework and Actually Get Things Done: 12 Hacks for Busy Students

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Chances are, you’ve had some days when you felt overwhelmed after a long day at school. You couldn’t imagine doing anything other than plopping down in front of the television, let alone finding out how to focus on your homework. 

How can you overcome the resistance and get it done? How do you get your mind to include this task in your day as well?

With just a few adjustments, you will be able to expand your capacity to concentrate.

Why Can’t I Focus on My Homework?

Countless factors constantly fight for your attention : social media, people, overthinking, and anxiety. All of this can make you feel as though you have little control over your mind. 

If you want to start to focus better on your homework, you’ll need to set your mind up for success. Remove all distractions .

Here are two key principles that can help you be more successful in your studies:

1. Identify the distractions in your surroundings

What are the things in your daily life that take your mind away from your studies? Clearly identifying these distractions can help you understand both the problem and what causes it.

Among our environmental distractions, digital distractions are one of the worst kinds, and according to a number of studies , their effect is on the rise in the classroom.

If you’re looking to gain more concentration and, thus, form better study habits, question your online behavior first and foremost.

2. Limit the use of technology to find focus

What’s the role of social media in your daily life? Have you ever sat down to calculate how social media distracts you from doing the things you should be doing?

When you are wondering how to focus on homework long after you’ve put your phone away, you’re still thinking about the last posts you saw on Instagram. The sound of new notifications can be enough to reroute our attention from the task at hand.

And then comes the information overload, the fear of missing out, and the all-too-common signs of addictive behavior. Technology is affecting your mind more than ever, and it’s taking your focus away.

How to Focus on Homework: 12 Things You Can Do to Be More Indistractible

Here are 12 tips on how to stay focused while completing your homework, taught by superbrain coach Jim Kwik and habit transformation expert Nir Eyal .

• Make a routine
• Set up a study-friendly environment
• Avoid heavy meals
• Organize your study notes
• Tell others to stay away
• Listen to study music
• Set deadlines
• Take brain breaks
• Use discomfort as motivation for productivity
• Use time blocking
• Let go of thoughts that distract you
• Reimagine your task

Let’s look at each study hack in more detail.

1. Make a routine

Routines help you be productive without exerting as much effort. When you have homework to do, a study routine can be the reason you actually sit down, set enough time aside, concentrate, and stay focused until you complete the project.

This process doesn’t need to be complicated: just tell yourself that you will sit at your desk at home once you’re back from school. Put your phone on silent, make an outline of the work that needs to get done, and simply begin with what’s most important.

2. Set up a study-friendly environment

A place for everything and everything in its place. That applies to studying, too.

Lying in bed with your notebook is considered a distraction, as is being in the living room with your laptop while others are doing their activities.

You need an isolated place when you decide to focus on your homework. Make it feel comfortable, keep it organized, keep it clean, and consider putting up some motivational posters or positive affirmations .

3. Avoid heavy meals

It’s not advisable to have a big meal beforehand. Big meals can ruin your focus and make you feel sluggish and lazy because it takes a big amount of time and energy for your body to digest. A snack is okay.

There are also some foods , though, that are just plain bad for your productivity. For example, soda, candy, and fried foods are all full of sugar and have no nutritional value. They make your insulin spike up, but then it crashes very fast, which makes you feel depleted of energy.

4. Organize your study notes

Prioritize your work. Keep lists and place the most important items on top. Then work on the items that you should get done first.

It helps to outline what you need to do, breaking it down into smaller, more manageable steps. Use colors to highlight the essentials . 

This makes it all look much simpler and you’re more likely to actually get started. The brain loves organization and it won’t be so likely to procrastinate when it knows you have a structure set in place.

5. Tell others to stay away

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. 

6. Listen to study music

There are many tracks out there designed to help your mind focus. Whether you use binaural beats or just instrumental music, the right sounds can really help to tune your brain into a productive frequency.

This meditation is also great to listen to; it puts your mind in a clear, concise, and ready-to-take-on-the-world mode:

7. Set deadlines

Even if your teacher has already given you deadlines for each assignment, set new ones yourself at earlier dates.

This helps you build discipline, learn how to focus on studying, and prioritize every day.

8. Take brain 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.

You can also use the Superbrain Yoga Technique. In the Superbrain Quest, Jim talks about implementing it during your breaks. It goes as follows:

• Massage the left lobe of your ear with your right hand, and the right one with your left hand
• Inhale and squat down
• Exhale and come back up while continuing massaging your opposite ear with the opposite hand
• Keep going for a few minutes

As your body moves, your brain grooves. — Jim Kwik, trainer of Mindvalley’s Superbrain Quest

9. Use discomfort as motivation for productivity

The brain is wired to protect us from danger, and our ancestors needed this function of the psyche to survive. Discomfort is associated with danger, and whenever they felt it, they knew it was time to run away or protect themselves in one way or another.

In today’s world, danger isn’t so imminent. However, discomfort is, and the brain still works to protect us in the same way. 

So why not use it to your advantage?

Once you have this mindset shift, you can see the discomfort that comes with doing your homework as fuel for moving forward, from pain to pleasure. So instead of procrastinating and avoiding the discomfort, just use it as motivation to get things done.

And maybe you can even save yourself a fun activity to do later in the day, so you have something to look forward to.

10. Use time blocking

You can use time blocking and set a specific amount of time for parts of your homework that needs to be done. For example, you block 30 minutes of reading, then another 30 minutes of writing down highlights from the text. 

This method will give you more structure and support you when you need to focus on school work, as you will have a dedicated structured time to do so.

11. Let go of thoughts that distract you

When you need more concentration, but your thoughts keep getting in the way, here’s a fun visualization exercise you can use:

• Before you start working on your homework, close down your eyes and imagine a flowing river in front of you. 
• Now, place every thought on a leaf and let it run down the river while watching it move away from you. 

Do this repeatedly for 5-10 minutes and see how your mind becomes clearer, more productive, and more inspired.

12. Reimagine your task

How can you make the process of doing your homework more fun? Is there any way you can think of to make it more exciting and engaging?

As you introduce play and fun into any task, your capacity to stay focused will increase. So just try out different methods to engage more in your homework. 

For example, what if you made a trivia quest about your history lesson homework? Or what about riddles to make you remember all the characters from the novel you have to read? 

Once you play around with these kinds of games, you might find that focusing on your homework isn’t as boring as you thought it would be.

Unleash the Power of Your Focus

Discovering how to focus on your homework can go beyond schoolwork and actually support you in many other activities you want to do. Concentration is one of the best skills to nurture for your growth.

If you need a little guidance at the beginning of your focusing journey, Mindvalley has it in store for you. 

By unlocking your FREE Mindvalley access , you can check out sample classes from quests that help you develop better focus and study habits, such as Becoming Focused and Indistractable by Nir Eyal and Superbrain by Jim Kwik. You can also immerse yourself in beautiful sounds and guided meditations designed to improve concentration and help you enter the flow state.

The earlier you start, the greater your journey of self-discovery will be. Welcome in.

— Images generated on Midjourney.

Watch a free masterclass

Discover Powerful Hacks to Unlock Your Superbrain to Learn Faster, Comprehend More and Forget Less

Join the foremost expert in memory improvement and brain performance, Jim Kwik, in a free masterclass that will dive into the one skill you will ever need — learning how to learn Enroll for free

Alexandra Tudor

Jim Kwik is a brain coach and a world expert in speed reading, memory improvement, and optimal brain performance.

Known as the “boy with the broken brain” due to a childhood injury, Jim discovered strategies to dramatically enhance his mental performance.

He is now committed, through programs like Mindvalley’s Superbrain and Speed Reading Quest , to helping people improve their memory, learn to speed-read, increase their decision-making skills, and turn on their superbrain.

He has also shared his techniques with Hollywood actors, Fortune 500 companies, and trailblazing entrepreneurs like Elon Musk and Richard Branson to reach their highest level of mental performance. He is also one of the most sought-after trainers for top organizations like Harvard University, Nike, Virgin, and GE.

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Daniel Wong

How to Focus When Studying: 20 Uncommonly Effective Tips

Updated on August 28, 2023 By Daniel Wong 130 Comments

Do you find it hard to focus when you’re studying?

There are so many distractions these days: text messages, videos, email and social media.

Not to mention your own wandering mind.

Over the years, I’ve taught many thousands of students how to study more effectively.

One of the best ways to improve your grades is to learn how to focus better while you study.

I’ve come up with this list of 20 tips and techniques to help you concentrate while studying.

(To get 5 additional tips, download the free PDF below.)

Enter your email below to download a PDF summary of this article. The PDF contains all the tips found here, plus  5 exclusive bonus tips that you’ll only find in the PDF.

How to focus on studying.

You can learn how to focus better by trying some of these techniques during your next study session.

When you find one that works, make it a part of your routine every time you study.

1. Use your phone camera or webcam to record yourself studying

This tip may sound strange, but it works.

Set up your webcam or your phone camera to record a video of yourself studying.

The idea is to create accountability.

Instead of having a friend check on your progress, you have a camera watching everything you do.

Knowing that you are being watched will remind you of your objective.

Just when you’re about to get distracted, you’ll remember that everything you’re doing is being recorded.

It’s a useful reminder to yourself that you’ve made a commitment to study.

2. Use Focusmate

If you want to take it to the next level, use Focusmate instead.

With Focusmate, you make a pre-commitment to study for a 50-minute period at least one day in advance.

You then get paired with a real-life accountability partner.

You must turn on your webcam during the 50-minute session. This means that you and your study partner can see and hear each other during the study session.

If you leave your desk without giving an explanation, your study partner can report you, and vice versa.

Similarly, if you don’t turn up to your study session or if you are late, your study partner can report you.

Non-compliance results in the system marking you down. If your score falls below a certain level, the system will eventually lock you out.

But if you keep your commitments and complete your study session, the system will reward you with points.

3. If you don’t feel like starting work, take 1 minute to prepare yourself mentally

Sometimes you may not even feel like getting to work.

When this happens, take a minute to prepare yourself mentally.

Set a timer for a minute and tell yourself that you’ll start work when the timer goes off.

By doing this, you’ll be much more likely to get to work at the end of the minute.

This is called an “implementation intention”.

Any time you signal to yourself an intention to do something, it makes it easier to begin that task.

In this case, the implementation intention is to set a timer for a minute before starting a study session, if you feel like procrastinating.

So, if you find it hard to motivate yourself to start studying , take a minute and prepare yourself mentally.

By doing this, you will eliminate the resistance you were experiencing.

4. Before your first study session of the day, create a plan for the day

Make the plan as detailed as possible.

There’s a good reason for this. You must be clear about what you’re going to achieve during each study session.

For example, “study science” is not a sufficiently detailed study plan .

Here’s an example of a plan with enough detail: “Read pages 25 to 32 of the science textbook and create a summary diagram.”

When you break a task down into detailed components, you will have a better idea as to whether it’s achievable within the specified study period.

Another advantage of creating a detailed plan is that it becomes easier to assess your progress.

If you’re halfway through your study period and you’ve already completed half of what you planned to achieve, you’ll know you’re on track.

A key part of studying effectively is setting specific tasks to work on during each study session.

5. Write down exactly why you want to study hard

Another way to stay focused when studying is to be clear about why you want to study hard in the first place.

Write down the reasons you want to study hard.

Keep the list handy so you can remind yourself of these reasons when you find yourself losing concentration.

For example, you might write down:

• “I want to become a more knowledgeable person.”
• “I want to become a more self-driven person.”
• “I want to cultivate the habit of always doing my best.”
• “I want to make the most of my educational opportunities and learn as much as I can.”

Try to focus on process-oriented reasons rather than outcome-oriented reasons.

Because outcomes are often beyond your control, whereas the process is always within your control.

For example, the outcome of getting A’s for all your subjects is, in some ways, beyond your control. But studying for a total of at least 2 hours every day is a process that is within your control.

Here’s another reason to focus on the process rather than on the outcome.

The outcome could be something that may only come to pass in the distant future.

On the other hand, the process is something you engage in every day.

It’s far more effective to measure the achievement of the process than the achievement of the outcome.

6. Keep track of all the tasks you’ve completed

Keep a record of all the tasks you complete each day.

This is important for two reasons.

Firstly, it allows you to monitor whether you are meeting the objectives set in your study plan.

If you are not meeting your objectives, you may have underestimated the time required for the tasks.

But if you are completing your tasks with time to spare, you may be able to set your targets higher.

Secondly, it’s important for your morale to see that you are making progress.

Studying is an activity where progress isn’t always easy to measure. But when you keep track of the tasks you have completed, you’ll be clearer about the progress you are making.

This will remind you that you have been productive, which will keep you motivated.

7. Put only the materials you need for your current task on your desk

The brain is able to process information more effectively in an uncluttered environment. This is what researchers have discovered .

As such, it’s a good idea to place on your desk only the items that you need to complete the task at hand. For example, this might consist of the assignment, a pen, a pencil, an eraser, and a calculator.

Make a list of what items you’ll need during your study session. Make sure you have only those items on your desk.

If your study area is disorganised, take a couple of minutes to tidy it up before you start work.

Having things neat and tidy has a calming effect on your mind and will help you to concentrate.

8. Get your brain ready by doing deep breathing exercises before each study session

Deep breathing exercises increase the ability of your mind to focus.

Researchers at Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience have studied the effect of breathing exercises on the body’s production of noradrenaline.

Noradrenaline functions as a neurotransmitter, which affects your concentration.

By regulating your breathing, you can optimise your levels of noradrenaline.

The researchers concluded that “there is a strong connection between breath-centred practices and a steadiness of mind”.

Here is a simple breathing exercise that will bring calm and focus to your mind before you study:

• Close your eyes and take a deep breath in through your nose for 4 seconds.
• When you feel that your lungs are full of air, hold your breath for 2 seconds.
• Then slowly exhale through your nose for 4 seconds.

Do this exercise three times in succession before the start of every study session.

Try it out now to see how relaxed it makes you feel!

9. Don’t study in bed

Don’t try to do anything productive while lying or sitting in bed.

It’s important that the place where you study is not the same as the place where you sleep .

You won’t be able to study effectively in a place that you associate with relaxing or sleeping. In fact, this is my first suggestion when students ask me how to avoid sleepiness while studying .

Also, if you study in bed you will either be lying down or sitting cross-legged.

Neither of these positions is conducive for maximal focus. These positions may even result in neckaches and backaches.

What’s more, you may end up taking unintended naps!

So do your work at a proper study desk, every single time – this is a good habit that every student should cultivate !

10. Adjust the temperature of your studying environment

Make sure the temperature where you are studying is optimal.

Researchers at Cornell University found some interesting results when office temperatures were raised from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

Typing errors fell by 44% and output increased by about 150%.

Most research shows that the temperature most conducive for working and studying is in the range of 22°C to 25°C (72°F to 77°F).

So if it’s possible for you to adjust the temperature of your studying environment, keep it within this range.

11. Write down exactly what you’re working on at the moment

Every time you begin a study session, write down the task that you’ll be working on.

Do this on a rough sheet of paper and leave it on your study desk. This way, it will serve as a constant reminder about what you should be doing at the moment.

Just as you need a detailed plan for the day (Tip #4), you also need a detailed plan for each study session.

For example, if you write down “Do math assignment” for the current study session, it’s not specific enough.

“Do math assignment, questions 1 to 3 ” is more specific, so you’re more likely to stay on task.

12. Tell your family your study schedule for the day

Post your study schedule on your bedroom door or on the fridge door in the kitchen.

This way, your family will know when they shouldn’t disturb you.

There’s another benefit to doing this. It also gives you a greater sense of accountability.

By making a pre-commitment to your family about when you’ll be studying, you’ll be more likely to stick to your study schedule.

All in all, this is a simple tip that will enable you to concentrate when you’re studying.

13. Put all of your digital devices in another room

This might seem like common sense, but I’m surprised how many of my teenage coaching clients were not doing this before I started working with them.

The old adage “out of sight, out of mind” applies here.

Leave your tablet and phone in another room and put them on silent mode.

Minimising temptations is one of the keys to being productive.

In addition, even if you feel tempted to check your phone, you probably won’t do it because the effort required to walk to the other room is too great.

14. Use these two apps to eliminate digital distractions

The first app I recommend is Forest .

With this app, your study session “becomes” a tree.

At the beginning of the session, you plant the tree and it starts to grow. But if you close the app, the tree dies – and nobody wants their precious tree to die!

By using the app, you’ll have a more productive study session.

Of course, having your phone next to you while you study could be a distraction (as mentioned in the previous tip).

This means that you’ll need to be careful not to use your phone for anything else.

The second app you can use to remove digital distractions is Freedom .

You can schedule this app to block other apps such as YouTube, games, and social media to keep you on track.

15. Listen to classical music while studying

Listening to classical music is another way to help you focus when studying.

Dr. Masha Godkin , professor at Northcentral University, has researched the effects of music on our brains.

She found that classical music can take you from the beta brainwave state to the deeper alpha state, and even further to the theta state.

According to Dr. Godkin, the ability of music to stimulate both sides of the brain is why music helps you focus and also improves your memory .

Classical music with a fast tempo, such as Beethoven’s Für Elise, is effective in helping students to concentrate and remember more information.

16. If you don’t like classical music, listen to music/sounds from these two websites

If you don’t like classical music, try using Coffitivity instead.

Coffitivity simulates the sounds you would hear in a cafe to boost your creativity and brain function.

It’s designed based on research at the University of Chicago. This research shows that we think better and are more creative when there is a moderate level of background noise.

Alternatively, try listening to Brain.fm .

Brain.fm offers music engineered to help you achieve and sustain deep focus.

Personally, I use Brain.fm almost every day, and I’ve found it to be useful. By listening to Brain.fm, I’m able to stay focused for about 50% longer than before!

17. Use earphones or headphones while studying

If you intend to use Tips #15 or #16, then you’ll probably want to use earphones or headphones.

But even if you don’t want to listen to any type of music, using earphones or headphones is still a good way to improve your concentration while you study.

Because they insulate you from the outside world.

Using earphones or headphones is a signal to others that you are occupied.

This reduces the likelihood that others will interrupt your study session.

Wearing earphones or headphones will also remind yourself that you are in the middle of a study session.

18. Count how many study sessions you complete each day

There’s a saying that “what gets measured, gets done”. This principle applies to study sessions too.

Keep track of how many study sessions you complete each day.

This way, you’ll become more intentional about getting to work.

Let’s say that you typically study in blocks of 30 minutes.

Before you begin your first study session of the day, you might decide that your goal for the day is to do at least 3 sessions of 30 minutes each.

As the day goes by, count how many sessions you’ve completed.

By keeping score in this way, you’ll focus on the process of doing the work. As a result, you’ll get more work done!

19. When you feel as if you’re about to get distracted, write it down

It’s inevitable: From time to time, you’ll get distracted during your study sessions. So you need a strategy for dealing with these distractions.

Here’s a technique that works well.

Let’s say that you’re reading your science notes when you get the urge to check your text messages.

Instead of giving in to the temptation, write down on a rough sheet of paper: “Check text messages.”

Once you’ve done that, you’ll find that it’s easier to go back to studying.

During your next break, you can go ahead and do what you’ve listed on that rough sheet of paper. In this case, you can check your text messages.

Why is this technique effective?

Because instead of simply trying to resist the urge, you get to “take action” by writing down the distraction. In doing so, you’re acknowledging the urge without giving in to it.

This leaves you free to go back to what you were doing before – studying.

20. Set an end time for when you’ll stop studying each day

This might not be the advice you were expecting.

After all, shouldn’t you be trying to study for as many hours as you can every day?

No, because the idea is to study smart, not just hard.

Of course, you need to work hard. But it’s also essential to lead a balanced life.

So set a strict deadline, such as 9:30 pm, and make sure that you don’t do any work after that time. The best time of the day to study is specific to every student, but it’s important that you decide when you’ll stop studying each day.

This will give you time to wind down before going to bed. This means that you’ll be able to get those 8 hours of sleep that you need to optimise your academic performance.

There’s another advantage to setting a specific end time for when you’ll stop studying each day.

Clearly defined limits help you to concentrate on what you’re doing right now.

You won’t get distracted as often, because you know that you won’t stay up late to catch up on the time you’ve wasted because of procrastination.

The result?

You’ll learn more in less time, and you’ll get good grades too.

Staying focused while studying is something that all students struggle with.

But there are many things you can do to help you concentrate and get into a flow state when studying .

As described in this article, there are plenty of ways to harness the power of your mind and make it work with you, not against you.

So take at least several study tips from this article and work them into your routine, starting today.

If you do this, you’ll find that your study sessions will become more productive and enjoyable!

Like this article? Please share it with your friends.

May 2, 2020 at 7:18 pm

Thank you very much for your effort, its really taking me higher and making me more focused on my study. God bless you.

May 2, 2020 at 9:15 pm

You’re welcome, and God bless you too.

May 5, 2020 at 3:30 pm

They are so amazing thank you

May 5, 2020 at 4:53 pm

I’m glad you like the article.

October 6, 2020 at 11:29 am

I never thought some of these would work on me since I have autism and aspergers spectrum so I easily get distracted.

December 22, 2023 at 12:30 pm

This is so amazing and helpful may the Lord bless the work of your hands

May 2, 2021 at 1:56 pm

Hi this is Sagar, I am preparing for a competitive exam but I am unable to the focused mindset. My mind won’t allow me to sir and study as it takes a lot of time to prepare for it. Could you please guide me regarding it ?

November 2, 2020 at 11:59 pm

Thank you so much sir. I am in class 10 but I am distracted now, so I’m reading this. I feel energetic now. If I am distracted again I will read this. Thanks a lot sir…

January 29, 2021 at 6:29 am

Hello Mr Wong, may I simply ask what it is you have studied at University and if you graduated.

October 22, 2022 at 12:07 am

Thanks To you I’ve been more focused and discipline and I can see the changes in progress thank you Sir.

May 7, 2020 at 2:04 am

These tips are so much fruitful for achieving something very big in life

May 7, 2020 at 8:04 am

You’re welcome.

August 5, 2020 at 10:12 pm

reallu unusual tips but when i play the results in my mind they fall in place perfectly……..will definitely check them out!!! thanks for such a wonderful article

April 27, 2021 at 11:09 pm

Really it’s more realistic….superb…tips

May 3, 2020 at 9:27 am

Thank you for giving us the tips.. Its very useful.. I hope everyone can study easier using these tips 🌈

May 3, 2020 at 10:32 am

You are welcome, and I hope everyone finds this article useful too!

May 3, 2020 at 12:04 pm

Thank you sir 😀

May 3, 2020 at 9:34 pm

You’re welcome!

May 4, 2020 at 7:47 am

Thnku so much for tips …I’ll try it definitely …👍

May 4, 2020 at 8:43 am

May 3, 2020 at 4:05 pm

This is truly the best article regarding effective study. Reading the article was itself a big motivation. This article covers every problem a student faces with the best solution provided. I am in loss of words in expressing my deep gratitude to the writer of this article. Thank You very much! There could be nothing better than this.

I appreciate your kind words!

November 26, 2020 at 8:09 pm

I am trying to follow all the tips that you’ve mentioned sir. They are so useful to me during quarantine.

January 10, 2021 at 4:07 pm

ya you are right

May 3, 2020 at 7:34 pm

I really procrastinate during quarantine….. I have been trying these tips for some days now. And they work. Thank you do much for the tips!!

May 3, 2020 at 9:35 pm

I’m glad to hear that the tips have worked for you!

May 3, 2020 at 11:04 pm

First of all, thx for allowing comments, for me, not allowing them is “questionable” and seens to become more and more common among the media these days… Second: many of these tips are really new to me. I think this article will help a lot, thank you very much! Blessings from Brazil!

You’re welcome! I’m glad to hear that.

May 6, 2020 at 7:24 pm

I m going to try this from today it is difficult.thanks Sir

May 6, 2020 at 9:50 pm

All the best!

May 3, 2020 at 11:51 pm

This tips are very usefull. Thank you

May 4, 2020 at 8:44 am

May 4, 2020 at 12:18 am

In recent days… Procrastinate become my habit……I don’t know how …..But it happened……..These tips are very useful for me….Thank you sir….

I hope this article helps you!

May 4, 2020 at 12:45 am

It was really amazing 😍 Helped me a lot! Thank u so much😊

That’s great to hear!

May 4, 2020 at 12:51 am

Thank you very very much Sir.. everyone will find easier to focus on their studies like me during these quarantine days. It’s really benificial. I hope you’ll help us by your precious tips in future too.

You are very welcome.

May 4, 2020 at 1:10 am

I was looking for something like this for my studies. Thank you for doing this great work. I hope every student gets more and more benefit from this article. Thank you once again & God bless you.

May 4, 2020 at 8:45 am

You’re welcome and God bless you.

May 4, 2020 at 1:17 am

Unbelievable methods ND it’s very easy to relate with these ,sir really feeling blessed to see your article . Best article i have everything read sir related to studies .thanks a lot , thankyou so much sir Wong .

With regards .

May 4, 2020 at 2:23 am

Really an appreciable work from which I got new , effective, amazing and rejuvenating tips it’s really fab this article motivated me alot and make me feel energetic to indulge in my studies Apps provided by you are very helpful Thank you so much

I’m really happy to hear that!

May 7, 2020 at 7:00 am

Am really very greatful with the to and am really going to put it into practice Thanks once again

May 7, 2020 at 8:05 am

Thank you so much for your time and effort that you put into writing this article for us! I’ll definitely be downloading Focusmate and Freedom. Enjoy your day 😊

May 4, 2020 at 8:46 am

You’re welcome — thank you, I did take many, many hours to put this article together!

May 4, 2020 at 2:50 am

Thanks for sharing how to focus to study.Now I can get organize to start my Goal.

It’s my pleasure!

May 4, 2020 at 3:20 am

Thank You Sir your advice is very useful

You’re more than welcome.

May 4, 2020 at 4:25 am

May 4, 2020 at 8:47 am

You are welcome.

May 4, 2020 at 4:38 am

What can I do to motivate myself to start studying without stopping. Sometimes I feel I’m never going to finish how can I eliminate that feelings?

May 4, 2020 at 8:48 am

I’m sorry to hear that, but I think you’ll find this article useful: https://www.daniel-wong.com/2018/04/23/get-motivated-to-study/

May 4, 2020 at 7:22 am

Thanks for the tips

You’re very welcome.

May 4, 2020 at 7:26 am

Let me try for my children and let you know. Thank you.

Ok sure, thank you.

May 4, 2020 at 10:56 am

Every lines were worth reading. It help me realised where I’ve gone wrong and how i can improve my study session more effectively. Thank you so much for putting up all these tips together. I hope I’ll be able to implement them !!

May 4, 2020 at 11:47 am

All the best as you implement the tips!

May 4, 2020 at 1:05 pm

During the current situation is very likely to procrastinate, but your words are giving us enough motivation to do something. Thanks a lot.

May 4, 2020 at 2:35 pm

May 4, 2020 at 12:48 pm

Do you have a sample study schedule to share? Just a rough guideline will be good too. Thanks

May 4, 2020 at 2:36 pm

For that, you can check out this article ( https://www.daniel-wong.com/2015/01/14/straight-a-student/ ) — hope it helps.

May 4, 2020 at 1:22 pm

Can you please write an article On how to increase the hunger to study means we should get addicted to it

May 4, 2020 at 2:37 pm

I think you’ll find this article useful ( https://www.daniel-wong.com/2018/04/23/get-motivated-to-study/ ).

May 4, 2020 at 2:05 pm

Thank you very much for your generous sharing. I share these tips with students I am counselling. Will check in with them after a week or so, and I am sure they will be able to concentrate better and be more focussed.

These tips are also very useful for me.

Warm regards

Thank you, Helen. I’m glad you found the tips useful.

May 4, 2020 at 2:07 pm

Thnx a lot.. I will try these tips and let you know the results

May 4, 2020 at 4:30 pm

Thank you for sharing.

May 4, 2020 at 5:54 pm

It’s my pleasure.

May 4, 2020 at 4:52 pm

Its a really a great deal struggling to stay focus…Thanks for the insights, am sure it will be productive

May 4, 2020 at 5:55 pm

May 4, 2020 at 4:59 pm

Thank you so much sir for the really helpful tips ! Keep putting more content like this ..it’s really working !

I’m happy to hear that!

May 4, 2020 at 9:11 pm

Wooow! You did a wonderful and a great job. May God bless you and give you more wisdom for you to provide us with more of these things. Thanks.

May 4, 2020 at 10:18 pm

May 4, 2020 at 10:36 pm

The tips are just great, thank you sir

May 5, 2020 at 8:02 am

May 4, 2020 at 10:59 pm

Thanks so much for this article, lately I have being so distracted and often procrastinate about my studying time during this lockdown. But I believe with this article I will do well in studying and passing my professional exam. Pls I will like to be getting.ur articles often, how do get to read them.

May 5, 2020 at 8:05 am

You’re welcome. You can download this free guide ( https://www.daniel-wong.com/students-improve-focus/ ) to sign up for my mailing list, then you’ll get updated whenever I publish new articles.

May 4, 2020 at 11:18 pm

It’s one of the most valuable article I have read on effective studying tips till now …and surely goin to try these! Great work done 👍

May 5, 2020 at 8:00 am

May 5, 2020 at 1:04 am

Such an amazing article ever seen ,by reading itself I’m motivated thks alot for sharing such an article the subtitles mentioned in the article is very accurate to overcome distractions. I’m soo interested to include these in my daily routine for procrastinate my distraction. Once again thank you soo much.

May 5, 2020 at 7:59 am

May 5, 2020 at 1:14 am

This article came just in time. I’ve been looking for ways to keep me from getting distracted, but all I could really find is how to get motivated. I’ll definitely be using some of these tips!

I hope the tips work for you!

May 5, 2020 at 1:17 am

Such an amazing article ever seen thks alot for sharing this by reading itself I’m motivated moreover the subtitles mentioned in the article is very accurate to overcome distractions .I’m soo interested to include these in my daily routine for procrastinate my distractions. Once again thank you soo much. Share more stuffs like this which may help lots & lots of students.🙂🙂

I hope you manage to implement the tips successfully!

May 5, 2020 at 1:21 am

Thank you So Much Sir.. Now I’m preparing for Medical Entrance Examination…… These Tips really helpfull Expecting More…. 😄🙏 Sir….. Please pray for me to Crack My Exam… 😊

May 5, 2020 at 7:58 am

All the best for your exam!

May 5, 2020 at 3:12 am

Thank you very much for your advice! Have nice evening!

Sure, it’s my pleasure.

May 5, 2020 at 6:58 am

Thanks for sharing the tips of study.i am really worth it when read this article

May 5, 2020 at 6:59 pm

Mr.Daniel Wong I truly appreciate your extremely helpful efforts to make studies more productive.. Thank you so much for your article…

May 5, 2020 at 9:27 pm

You’re welcome, Pranjal.

May 6, 2020 at 6:26 am

It’s such an article for starting a productive study session or being attentive to study or even turning attention back to study..

May 6, 2020 at 8:15 am

All the best as you put the tips into practice!

May 6, 2020 at 11:19 am

Useful tips. Thank u

May 6, 2020 at 1:09 pm

You are welcome. I’m glad you found the tips useful.

May 6, 2020 at 2:20 pm

Thank you so much for such great tips and for taking the time to write this. I’ve saved this article and will implement the tips!

May 6, 2020 at 2:41 pm

Glad to hear that!

May 6, 2020 at 2:59 pm

One of the best article, I had came across during these days. It is motivational too. Thank you Mr. Daniel Wong for sharing very useful tips for all…. which are not only for students but every person.

Thank you once again

May 6, 2020 at 4:04 pm

You’re welcome, and thank you for your kind words!

May 7, 2020 at 6:50 am

This is very interesting and it will help some us! I think it will make a difference in our study! Thank you very much and continue with this great job! God bless you!

You are welcome and God bless you too!

May 13, 2020 at 2:53 pm

Thank you very much for the exceptional creative tips! These can help the learners a lot!

May 13, 2020 at 2:59 pm

May 22, 2020 at 2:54 pm

Thank you! I am trying to follow your advice roughly (I did that even before actually reading this article). The only thing is, I don’t think I need to videotape myself. Instead I just use tracking programs. And of course I write my assignments, organize a comfortable learning space, and leave my smartphone in my living room. I rarely turn on music – only when I feel that I can concentrate with it, but most of the time it’s easier for me to learn something in silence.

August 22, 2020 at 3:45 am

thanks a lot sir…it helped me a lot

August 31, 2020 at 10:47 pm

I love your suggestions…These are better than other websites which only state some common facts…your suggestions are great…I was also looking forward to using Focusmate…But it seems that only people 17 years old and above can use it…I am in middle school and just turned 13…Can you please suggest one more website just like Focusmate please…

October 6, 2020 at 11:31 am

Thanks, it really helped with my distraction problems!

December 23, 2020 at 10:21 pm

I’m preparing for exams which are after a month. These tips are soo helpful, I’m soo glad to have found this page. Thank you sir!🙂

January 8, 2021 at 2:46 am

thank you, this article really helps me!!!

January 17, 2021 at 11:08 pm

why i can’t focus in study

January 28, 2021 at 4:45 am

dude I just made an account on brain.fm

Game changer.

They should give you a cut when I pay for the year after my 3 day trial.

Going to go hit up a 2 hour session to “cinematic music focus”.

Might pair this with the tree app for extra measure.

(My issue is wanting to stop and hop on netflix — hence the tree).

February 15, 2021 at 1:23 pm

Really, this article got me excited as though I already practiced it. The methods are well outlined and easily implemented. The fact that it involves exercise, sleep and diet makes this article like an all-round solution for improving my learning, maintaining a healthy body and alleviating depression; all with just one article.

Thanks Mr Wong, you’re a life saver.

April 7, 2021 at 7:47 am

Thanks sir for your advise and tips, it really helped me focus in my study more.

April 11, 2021 at 8:33 am

thanks your article for studying.

May 9, 2021 at 8:01 pm

I found this useful. I have bookmarked this page so that I can come back here when ever I want it. thankyou so much

July 5, 2021 at 1:49 pm

thank you so much helped me alot

September 26, 2021 at 11:26 am

Thank you so much. The 16th tip helped me so much

November 14, 2022 at 8:35 pm

i really found it very helpful. amazing tips.

July 5, 2023 at 9:33 am

How to focus on main point.

September 29, 2023 at 8:44 am

Thank you so much. Sometimes it takes multiple strategies. Switching up from day to day. Good of you to share!

July 30, 2024 at 11:50 am

Thank you so much. I will try to use these tips 🙂 It been hard to focus for me.

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• Essay Editor

How to Focus on Homework: Good Ways to Beat Procrastination

Dealing with homework doesn't have to be an uphill battle. The tips in this article will help you avoid distractions and stop procrastinating, making your study time more useful. You'll be better able to finish homework and do better in school, no matter if you're working on homework for math, science, or any other class.

Tips to Focus on Homework and Stop Procrastinating

Doing homework can be tough when there are a million things that can distract us. But learning to focus and not procrastinate is really important for doing well in school. Let's look at some helpful tips to stay on track and finish homework without too much trouble.

How to Focus on Homework

Focusing on schoolwork isn't always easy, but if you try the right things, you can do it. These tips will help you make a good place to study and get in the right mindset so you can focus on school work better:

Tip 1: Exercise First

Before you start studying, try to move your body a bit. Research shows that exercises that get your heart pumping help your memory and thinking. A short 15-minute run, bike ride, or even dancing can wake up your brain, making it easier to focus on school work.

For example, Sarah, who's in 10th grade, found that doing jumping jacks for five minutes before studying helped her pay attention better to her math homework.

Tip 2: Make a Schedule

Having a regular schedule is really important when working on homework. Try to make a daily plan that sets aside specific times for each subject. This helps train your brain to know when it's time to study, making it easier to focus.

How to Make a Schedule:

• Use a planner or phone app to plan your week
• Include all your activities, not just school stuff
• Be honest about when you have energy and what you like
• Try to stick to your schedule as much as you can
• Change it when you need to

Doing the same thing each day helps a lot. Try to do homework at the same time and place every day to make it a habit. 

For example, Tom, who's in 11th grade, found that studying from 4-6 PM every day in his home office really helped him get more done.

Tip 3: Be Prepared

Get everything you need before you start. This means your textbooks, notebooks, water, and snacks. Having everything nearby stops you from having to get up and look for things, which can make you lose focus.

Helpful tip: Make a homework kit with all your important stuff. This way, you can quickly grab it and start working, whether you're at home or the library.

Tip 4: Have a Study Space

Make a special place just for studying. It doesn't need to be fancy — a quiet corner with a comfortable chair and good light can work well. The important thing is to keep your study space separate from where you relax, which helps your brain know it's time for focusing on schoolwork when you're there.

Emily, who's in 9th grade, turned a small closet into a cozy study spot. The small space helped her avoid distractions and focus better.

Tip 5: Get Rid of Things That Distract You

Find and remove things that might distract you. This often means putting your phone in another room or using apps that block social media when you're studying. Studies show that even when your phone is silent, notifications can make it hard to focus and cause you to make more mistakes in your work.

A study by the University of California found that it usually takes about 23 minutes to fully focus again after you get distracted. That's a lot of time you can't waste when doing homework.

Tip 6: Take Notes

Writing notes by hand can help you remember things better. Use colorful pens, draw pictures, or make mind maps to use more of your senses while studying. This way of active learning can help you understand and remember information better when working on homework.

Try the Cornell Note-Taking System: Split your page into three parts - a small left column for questions, a big right column for notes, and a bottom part for summaries. This method helps organize information and makes it easier to review later.

Tip 7: Take Breaks

Taking regular breaks is important to stay focused. Try the Pomodoro Technique: study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After doing this four times, take a longer 15-30 minute break. This method can help you stay fresh and not get too tired.

Alex, a senior, really likes this technique. He found that his ability to focus on school work got much better when he started taking planned breaks instead of trying to study for hours without stopping.

Tips to Stop Procrastinating

Tip 1: give yourself rewards to stay motivated.

Make a reward system for finishing tasks. For example, let yourself do 15 minutes of something you like after finishing an assignment. This positive reward can make working on homework more appealing.

Jessica, a sophomore, made a "homework bingo" card. Each finished task got her a square, and when she filled a line, she got a special treat like watching an episode of her favorite show.

Tip 2: When You Get Bored, Get Up and Move

If you find your mind wandering, take a short active break. A quick stretch, a walk around the block, or even a short dance can give you new energy and help you focus on schoolwork again.

Research done by the University of Illinois found that short breaks from a task can really help you focus on that task for longer periods.

Tip 3: Talk to Your Guidance Counselor

Don't be afraid to ask for help if you're having trouble focusing on school. Guidance counselors are trained to help students with school challenges and can give you personal tips to improve how you study.

Many students find that regular talks with their counselor help them stay on track and motivated.

The Bottom Line!

Learning how to focus on homework and how to stop procrastinating homework takes time and practice. By using these tips, you can make a good study environment and develop habits that help you do well in school.

Remember, everyone is different. Try different strategies to find what works best for you. If you keep trying and use the right approach, you'll be able to stop putting things off and do well in your studies.

Aithor can be a helpful tool in your school journey, helping you organize your thoughts and make writing easier. Aithor can help you focus more on understanding ideas and less on the mechanics of writing, which can improve your ability to stay focused on school work.

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How to Get Your Homework Done Fast

Last Updated: September 6, 2024 Fact Checked

Staying Focused

Getting organized, staying motivated, expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Jake Adams . Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,158,492 times.

Doing homework can be both time-consuming and frustrating, and you probably want to do more with your free time than just homework. When you have a lot of work to do, it can be tough to work efficiently. By staying focused, organizing and planning, and motivating yourself, you can get your homework done in a timely manner and move onto more fun and exciting activities. But you should start with putting away all distractions such as your devices unless you need them.They are normally the main distraction. You should also work in a quiet place so you are not attempted to go and do something else. For example, you should not work near your TV because you will be tempted to go and watch it.

• Download website-blocking apps such as Freedom or SelfControl to stay focused while using your computer for homework. Some, such as the Chrome extension Strict Workflow, even have the added bonus of preventing you from cancelling the timer once it has started.

• If one subject or type of assignment is taking much more time than the others, you may want to ask for a little extra help in that area from your teacher or parent.
• If you get distracted or go off-task, don't make excuses for yourself. (e.g. "I won't be able to focus until I do this anyway." or "I'm sure it will only take a minute or two."

• Consider consolidating your multiple different subject folders and notebooks into one big binder separated by tab dividers. This way, all of your schoolwork will be in one place.

• Decide how much time you want to spend on your homework collectively.
• Make a list of all the different tasks you need to finish.
• Estimate how much time you’ll be able to spend on each task to finish your homework when you want to.
• Work straight through your list and cross tasks off as you go. [7] X Research source

• A ten page essay that’s due in a week that you haven’t started should be labeled an “A” or “B” while a short five question worksheet due in three days may be labeled a “C”.
• Make sure you don't wait until the last second to get assignments done.

• Try eating celery sticks and apple slices with peanut butter.

Supercharge Your Studying with this Expert Series

Reader Videos

• Make sure to hand in all assignments on time. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 0
• Try using a planner to help you remember the tasks that you need to complete. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
• Wear something very comfortable while you work. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 1

Tips from our Readers

• If you set a timer, it can motivate you to get your homework done more quickly. Be sure to take a 2-5 minute break in between. For example, if you're going to do an assignment that you expect to take 30 minutes, set a timer for 15 minutes. Take a 2-minute break when the timer goes off, then set your timer again for 15 minutes.
• It can be good to have friends over if they help motivate you and are interested in getting their homework done quickly as well. They might be a distraction at times but it can also be easier to work when there are people around you who are working too.
• If you drink something cold during your breaks it can help make you more alert so that you'll finish faster. It might also help to do it at night rather than during the day so you feel more time pressure.
• Try to get your homework done as much as you can in school. You could do it during a flex or study hall. If your teacher gives you time in class to work on it, use it.

• Take your time. If you rush through your homework and don’t try your best, you might end up getting a bad grade. Thanks Helpful 177 Not Helpful 19

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/creating-ideal-homework-environment-for-kids-with-adhd-0913164
• ↑ http://info.achs.edu/blog/never-do-homework-in-bed-3-reasons-why
• ↑ https://childmind.org/article/strategies-to-make-homework-go-more-smoothly/
• ↑ https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/take-charge-of-distractions/
• ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/homework.html
• ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/homework.html
• ↑ https://ofy.org/blog/homework-hacks-8-tips-get-done-faster/
• ↑ Jake Adams. Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist. Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.

About This Article

To get your homework done fast, work in a comfortable, well-lit area that doesn't have any distractions. Also, try setting a timer with however many minutes you want to finish your homework in so you can glance at it as you work and see if you're spending too much time on something. You can also make a to-do list before you get started so you don't waste any time figuring out what you need to be working on. To stay motivated, have a snack and some water nearby, and reward yourself with a fun activity once all your homework is done. To learn how to get organized so it's easier to do your homework, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Do Homework: 15 Expert Tips and Tricks

Coursework/GPA

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.

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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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Homework: Staying Focused to Get It Done Faster

Recently, a SOAR ® subscriber asked for tips to help her daughter stay on-task with her homework. Just last night, a student in my Homework Action Group complained of the same problem. “I have a hard time staying focused on homework. It takes me forever to do it!”

I remember, as a young student myself, wriggling and squirming at my desk. Soon, I would need a drink, or snack, or pencil… After getting lost in the kitchen and sucked into a TV show, it would be another hour before I returned to my homework.

It would get so late, I finally had no choice but to do my homework. By that time, I was irritable, annoyed, and impatient. (Don’t laugh, Mom!) That made homework even worse.

Why did I do this?

I didn’t like homework. Obviously. I didn’t know how to do it efficiently. I didn’t have the discipline to do it quickly.

But, I’ve learned a lot since then…

There isn’t much I can do to help anyone “like” homework. I can teach strategies for completing it faster, but that takes a complete curriculum. So, this article will help you improve your self-discipline.

“Self-Discipline Does NOT Sound Fun!”

Yes, I know… self-discipline sounds dreadful.  But, it’s time to change your perspective. Just past the point of resistance is an amazing feeling of accomplishment and a big pay-off.

Self-discipline is what motivates athletes to win championships and wealthy people to earn their riches.  One of the world’s most successful marketing campaigns was created on the concept of self-discipline; NIKE inspires athletes to “Just Do It!” Apply that attitude to homework, and great things will happen.

Action Plan for Staying Focused on Homework

“Just do it!” is a little easier said than done, especially when it comes to homework. However, the following tips will help you get started:

• The hours between 3-6 p.m. are typically the most wasted of a student’s day. Make them your most productive by doing homework within one hour after school (when possible). You’re most alert at this time, so homework will be easier than doing it later.
• Find small sections of time for homework before you get home… on the bus, before basketball practice, or even during school. (There is a lot of “down-time” in classes, such as when teachers take attendance.) The less homework you have when you get home, the more motivated you will be to finish the rest quickly.
• Reward yourself. Challenge yourself to do all of your homework before a specific time. Then, you’ll have plenty of time to watch Netflix, play video games, text friends, etc.
• Fill a basket with supplies you need for homework: pens, pencils, pencil sharpener, stapler, paper, scissors, markers, glue, ruler, etc. Keep the basket next to you so everything will be right at your fingertips. One trip across the house for a stapler can cost you hours when you get sidetracked by the refrigerator, your siblings, your phone, etc. Every sibling should have their own basket. If you live in two homes, keep one basket in each house.
• Eliminate distractions. It’s tempting to watch videos, listen to music, or text friends while doing homework. However, the human brain is only capable of focusing on one thing at a time. When you try to do two things at once, your attention constantly shifts back-and-forth. Sometimes that shift happens so rapidly, you don’t even notice it. However, distractions: double your homework time, increase errors, and completely destroy any learning that might happen while doing homework.
• Use an electronic timer. Before you begin an assignment, determine how much time it should take to complete. Add five minutes and set the timer. Challenge yourself to finish before the timer goes off. This is a great way to develop motivation (a.k.a. self-discipline) because it becomes a game to play against yourself. For younger students, parents can offer small rewards for each assignment that is done before the timer goes off.
• Parents: Do your “homework” while your child does their homework. You have bills to pay and school papers to complete. Do those chores during “homework time.” It helps your child feel like they aren’t “missing out” and keeps them focused.

Homework is usually NOT fun. But, you can make it much easier if you follow Nike’s advice and “Just Do It!” Your evenings will suddenly have more free time.Your grades will improve as you learn information while doing homework.

Before long, you’ll develop a much better attitude towards homework because you will have taken control of it, instead of your homework controlling you.

To get more simple ways to easily “Just Do It,” check out our dynamic and interactive app for students.

To your success,

Susan Kruger Winter

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10 tips for staying focused when learning from home

By Henry Lang

Just like most of y’all, I’m struggling with remote learning (and having ADHD  doesn’t make things any easier). In college, I’m studying to be an educator, so I thought I’d share some tips for staying focused when learning at home.

1. Make your study space cozy and clean.

Keep your computer screen clean, too. Close any distracting browser tabs. (Check out the free OneTab Chrome App to save those extra tabs for later.)

2. Switch up your study spots.

Your location influences how you process information. Even a slight change can be refreshing. Experiment with matching locations to specific tasks. I like to do math at the kitchen table and watch lectures on the couch.

3. Do a “brain boost” whenever you find yourself drifting.

Take a walk around the block, do some jumping jacks, stretch your limbs, and shake out any muscle tension in ways that feel comfy.

4. Hydrate!

Your body naturally performs better when you’re fully hydrated. Keep a water bottle on your desk. I still forget to pick up the purple plastic bottle sitting right in front of me, so I also stick a Post-it reminder on my notebook and computer screen.

5. Keep lists.

Making to-do lists for school, work, and other goals is a must for me. I’m much less likely to miss pesky homework deadlines when they’re all stored in one place.

6. Play around with sound.

Some of my friends like to listen to classical music while they study. When I’m taking an online quiz, I turn on a fan to cover noise from my neighbors. If you don’t have a fan, search for “ambience sounds” on YouTube.

7. Find a creative outlet.

Whether you’re learning new ukulele chords, doodling in a notebook, or keeping a journal, having an outlet for self-expression matters now more than ever.

8. Learn a new skill to balance your studying.

What’s something you’ve been meaning to learn? Finger spelling, knitting, computer coding, a trending TikTok dance. (I only tripped twice while learning the “Say So” routine!) Pick a new skill that excites you and set reasonable goals to keep up your progress. When you’re finished, try teaching a friend.

9. Stay connected with family and friends. 

Having conversations with loved ones can be refreshing during isolation. Consider reaching out to old friends to catch up, too.

10. Promote community care.

Other people who are struggling right now could use your support. I’ve been volunteering to do maintenance for neighbors who need extra hands. I’m also joining other students in sending emails to advocate for my school’s service workers to be paid.

Responding to my neighbors’ needs reminds me how lucky I am to be a part of my community right now.

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12 Ways To Concentrate On Your Homework

Many students are looking for ways to increase their productivity when it comes to doing homework. The good news is that there are many things that you can do to help you focus on the task at hand!

For example, if your problem is procrastination , try setting a timer so that you know how much time you have left. If distractions are your issue , then choose a special place where there will be no interruptions.

In this article, you discover: How to focus on my Homework 🎯 and Reasons why I can’t focus on my Homework.

But why can’t I concentrate on my homework?

Attention is the most complex function of the mind because it is subject to three competing influences:

• The willpower .
• The Fear and Stress Response System.
• And the pleasure and reward system.

When your willpower is in control, everything is fine. But it is not so simple because attention is a bit like the main window of a computer screen, behind which several operations are carried out in parallel to the task at hand. And the window of our attention has the particularity of being very unstable, moving very quickly from one sub-window to another.

This makes us flexible and reactive but also easily distracted when the will to concentrate is parasitized by these elements:

• Lack of interest in the subject: Of course, it’s easier to stay focused when you’re interested.
• Fatigue: Concentration requires vigilance. Which is inevitably lacking after a bad night, a tiring day, and more.
• Not being ready to do your homework: To be able to concentrate and stay focused, you have to be ready, both psychologically and physically.
• The subject is too difficult: It’s hard to stay focused when you don’t understand everything, and you feel lost…
• We haven’t set study goals : Without goals, you lose motivation and focus.
• Too much noise or activity around you: Environmental factors play a great role in our academic performances.
• There is too much to study: Concentration has its limits! If you want to stay focused, be reasonable, and don’t ask too much of your brain at once.
• Boredom: The brain needs motivation to hold on, to move forward.
• Fear of failure: Like procrastination, the fear of failure is an obstacle to concentration. Unfortunately, lack of concentration is one of the major causes of failure.
• Stress and anxiety: The brain is built to protect us from threats. At the slightest alarm signal (weather, health, economic alert…), our attention immediately shifts to these urgent matters.

12 Tips to Focus on Homework

Homework can be a daunting task for anyone. It is especially hard to focus on homework if you are not in the right mindset. Here are 12 Great tips that will help you stay focused and complete your assignment more quickly!

If you are wondering whether you can concentrate or not then read this article fully with high concentration. It will help you learn how to concentrate on your homework. You have to master the art of concentration then only you will be able to focus on homework.

Again! if you are distracted or losing focus read these 12 tips for doing homework at least twice.

Have a set routine.

As with any activity, setting a routine helps a lot to get started with less effort. When you get into the habit of taking a shower every morning, you don’t ask yourself any more questions; it becomes automatic. The same goes for sport. When it becomes part of our routine, it’s a winner!

So making homework part of the evening or morning routine is a basic and very useful key!

Be and stay positive.

To help you be positive, remember these different things:

• You study to learn, you have chosen these studies, and it is a pleasure to enrich yourself with new knowledge .
• Tell yourself over and over again that you will succeed because you enjoy doing your homework that will lead to the career you envision for yourself.
• You will succeed because you work for it with courage, enthusiasm, and motivation.
• Do not worry about other students. Remember that each person has his/her own pace, so don’t compare yourself to others. Work as you see fit according to your ability to concentrate.
• Don’t focus on the results you need to achieve; this brings stress. Focus your positive energy on your process- methods.

Avoid Doing More Than One Thing at a Time

Researchers working for Microsoft decided to check the impact of multitasking on the quality of work. The results of their study showed that after each break, however short, it takes an average of 23 min and 15s to regain full concentration.

Another study indicated that multitasking wastes an average of 40% of our productive time. By constantly switching/moving from one task to another, we actually lose a lot of time to refocus.

Moreover, according to a study conducted at the prestigious Stanford University , multitasking has a negative impact on our brain functions. It could even cause our IQ to temporarily drop by 15 points.

Of course, multitasking isn’t always bad. Listening to podcasts while drying your clothes seems like a great idea. The more different tasks we try to accomplish at once, the harder it is to get good results.

Having a study plan facilitates concentration.

Choose the right times. We’re all different: some people are more efficient and better able to concentrate in the morning, others in the evening. It’s up to you to establish your work plan based on what works for you. Select the times of day when you are at your best.

Divide your work into logical steps that have a beginning and an end. The brain organizes things as a whole, so you need to help it see the connections between each element. By organizing your work-miles stones-, you allow your brain to see things more clearly, thus increasing your concentration.

Pick a neutral, healthy, and serene environment.

Your work place-study- has a huge influence on your concentration level.

• Choose an airy place with good lighting. In a neat, tidy, and pleasant room, the temptations to distract yourself are limited.
• Turn off your mobile phone or cut off the WIFI so that only urgent calls are received.
• You can also choose to leave your phone in another room to limit the chances of being distracted.
• Go to the closest library if there is too much noise in your sounding -Neighbor’s vacuum cleaner, loud music, etc.
• As for music, it’s up to you to see what works for you. Some people like to work with music in the background; others simply can’t. It may also depend on the type of work you have to do.

Do physical Exercise.

Our brain is closely linked to the rest of our body, which means physical exercise has a direct impact on our mental performance.

Daily exercise is a quick and easy way:

• To Improve brain function.
• Keep the brain active;
• Reduce stress;
• And many other benefits .

But that’s not the only way to exercise your brain to improve your productivity. It’s important to note that the endorphins released during exercise can increase your heart rate.

You’ll also notice that physical activity leads to an overall increase in fitness, so you won’t feel like sleeping at your desk.

And for those of you who are feeling restless, a few brain-boosting exercises, without being too exciting, can help you get in the right frame of mind before you start doing your homework.

Use timeboxing.

One of my most effective ways to be more productive is to use the timeboxing method. Timeboxing is a time-management technique that has emerged in the field of software development within the agile method, which consists in frequently and regularly delivering parts of the final project.

The general concept of timeboxing is quite simple. It consists in dividing a project into short periods, always identical.

I’ve gotten so used to it that I can’t imagine working without a running clock. When I sit down at my computer and want to focus on something, starting the timer is my cue to start. I have to pick one particular thing I’m timing myself for and focus on it.

What is the duration of a time block?

There are no rules about the length of time blocks. If you are new to this technique, start with blocks of 10 minutes, and increase their duration gradually. I started with 5 minutes blocs. Now, my blocks are 45 minutes long.

Rest your neurons.

It’s also much easier to concentrate for short periods of time with breaks in between than for hours without interruption. When you do your homework, favor short but regular sessions over long sessions of learning here and there: for both memorization and concentration, repetition is essential.

Remember, your brain works like a muscle that you can build. But, like the muscles in your body, take it easy! Would you ever think of doing push-ups for 3 hours (or even 2, or 1) without a break and without stopping to drink some water? I hope not! So, take breaks to increase your effectiveness.

Additionally, it is during breaks that your brain Consolidates the information you have just absorbed. So, it’s essential to take regular breaks when you’re doing your academic activities-studying, working on your homework.

Do abdominal breathing between breaks.

If you are doing your homework at home, you can practice abdominal breathing by lying on your bed between breaks. Close your eyes and relax. Note that breathing is controlled not by the rise and fall of the chest but by the rise and fall of the belly.

Break down the task at hand-Homework- into simple tasks

As we have already mentioned, concentration is a limited resource. No matter how hard you try, you can’t stay focused on the same thing forever. Setting specific goals is essential because the brain is more efficient when it has a clear direction. It can then immediately get into action. The clearer you are about what you have to do, the more focused you are.

We recommend that you break your work into sub tasks, a subject into chapters, and a chapter into sub chapters. This way, you can work in short sessions and take frequent breaks to clear your head and recharge your batteries.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle

Your concentration level is also an indicator of your health. If you are sleep-deprived or tired, it directly impacts your concentration levels; hence, reducing your academic performance. Adopt a healthy lifestyle and give yourself the rest you need to stay focused.

Some students try to exploit every bit of time to revise (do their homework), especially during exam periods. This is often counterproductive because if we get too tired, our brain will not be able to concentrate, and the revisions will be ineffective.

Create rituals to focus on.

During her tournaments, the female tennis player Serena Williams never changes her socks. She believes that a small change can result in her defeat.

When Beethoven was composing his music, he usually woke up early in the morning, counted exactly 60 coffee beans to grind and prepare his coffee. Afterward, he would sit at his desk and work until 2:00 pm in the afternoon.

By creating these rituals, it is possible to enter a state of intense concentration when you are doing your home works.

Focusing on your homework is a real challenge and always will be. However, by putting these 12 homework tips for students into practice, you will put all the chances on your side to reduce distractions and keep the focus on your activities and will help you to make the homework a fun activity.

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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.

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 Donald Mitchell, assistant principal in an online high school, stated:

“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, online 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. Ms. Sarah Gamble, executive director of academics for an online high school, suggests you do the following:

“Have all the materials you need to work ready to go before you start each day,” said Ms. 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.

Online high school instructor Amber Day also suggests that you separate your workspace and 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.”

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 wants to get it finished now.

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

Studies show that 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. Just do something that isn’t 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 iSucceed’s guidance counselor, 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 (hopefully) be able to focus.

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, assistant principal

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

Join the discussion 3 Comments

thanks I love u

you are too good. thanks

This will help me so much! Thank you! I recommend keeping small fidgets that won’t distract you nearby to keep your hands busy while reading or thinking.

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How To Focus On Homework: Effective Tips And Strategies

by Kayleen Lares | Jun 18, 2024 | Student Guide | 0 comments

Do you ever sit to do your homework and find yourself in so many different directions? Even an hour later, you still don’t have anything written down? Staying focused while working is essential as it directly impacts your academic success. Moreover, determined homework sessions enable you to complete the assignments fast, freeing time for other activities and reducing stress levels. If you want to finish your homework quickly, we have mentioned 15 tips on how to focus on homework. 

Table of Contents

Distractions While Doing Homework

Staying focused while doing an assignment can be difficult. You can get distracted by the surroundings. Whether your phone is ringing, social media notifications, or even background noise from TV. Constant disturbances make it hard to concentrate. Several factors can affect your concentration:

Stress and Anxiety: Worrying about academic performance or personal issues can make it hard to focus. 

Multiple Tasks: It can cause a lack of motivation, making it difficult even to start your homework. 

Lack of Sleep: You can’t focus on homework when tired. The brain can’t focus or function at its best. 

Challenging Subject Matter: If the subject matter is uninteresting, it leads to delay. 

Distractions: Notifications, phone ringing, TV, or friends can distract you.

Understanding these underlying reasons can help you take steps to address them.

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Tips for How to Focus on Homework

Get a comfortable space.

Find a quiet place where you can study without interference. Keep the study area tidy and organized. You can allocate a specific area. Ensure you have all the necessary resources and materials before you start to minimize the need for breaks. 

Create a Routine

Creating a study routine can improve your focus. Set a specific time each day and stick to it. It is also important to stay realistic. For example, don’t wake up early and study if you can focus on homework at night. This is a waste of time. Make a schedule you are comfortable with. It will be less stressful and won’t put much pressure on you. 

Remove Distractions

While you sit to study, you can get distracted for many reasons. Here are some solutions for you so you can focus on math homework:

• Avoid crowded places where you can hear loud voices of TV or family members.

Divide Your Task Into Parts

Breaking the assignments or homework into smaller parts can help you feel more relaxed and stay focused on homework. Review the assignment requirements and break them into actionable steps. For example, if you have a research paper to write, break it down into tasks like:

• Conducting research

Set a Timer and Deadline

Setting a deadline helps to reduce your stress in online classes . It is an excellent way to keep track of tasks. Divide the homework into several parts and set a time and deadline. This way, you can remember the submission date and will always be on time. 

Don’t Multitask

You might think completing several tasks simultaneously will allow you to work faster. However, this is not true for everyone. If you are doing an assignment and purchasing at the same time, you are wasting your time. However, you will lose concentration and cannot cope with educational tasks. This is especially important if you are trying to complete statistics homework faster . Try to do one thing at a time if you want to succeed.

Use Productivity Apps 

It can be challenging to avoid TV and phones. Devices like computers or laptops are necessary for work. You can’t ignore them, but there are ways to reduce the distractions. 

Use productivity apps like Forest, Freedom, or Cold Turkey. These apps make students more efficient in their daily activities. They promote good time management , ensure deadlines are met, and use time wisely. They not only make studying engaging but also improve concentration levels. 

Take Breaks for Better Concentration

When handling challenging course materials, exhaustion is expected. There is also a chance you might be affected by fatigue. When exhausted or tired, it becomes difficult to focus on doing homework. 

Taking breaks helps rejuvenate the mind and generate new energy. However, scheduling intervals minimize stress and allow you to focus better on homework. Be mindful; don’t take a break for too long. 

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Stay Hydrated And Have Healthy Snacks 

Staying hydrated and having healthy snacks helps to maintain focus. Make sure you have a bottle within reach while studying. However, if you feel fatigued, you can take sips to stay refreshed. Also, keep nutritious snacks on hand. So when you are hungry, you can have it to fuel your brain. Some of the healthy snacks include:

• Dark chocolate  to get energized 

Reward Yourself

If you are feeling demotivated to complete your homework, you can try a reward system. For instance, if you are working on a complex task or project, think about what can excite you, like watching TV or having brownies. 

Choose the Best Time

There is a saying that everything has its right time. The same applies to doing your homework. You need to have a designated time. Being attentive can be easier if everything is scheduled correctly. Therefore, choosing the right time is important. Consider periods when your mind is fresh, and there are no distractions so you can focus on studying work and be productive. 

Play good music in the background. It will help your mood improve and distract you from unwanted noises. Moreover, play music that does not make you feel lethargic, as you might sleep. Furthermore, find good classical or any other music you like, but try to keep it without lyrics as it might distract you too.

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Additionally, you can try exercising before you start your studies. You can even take running or jumping breaks between tasks to stay energized and eliminate the possibility of falling asleep.

Make Homework Fun 

Make homework more like a race by setting up timed challenges. For instance, solve math problems in a span of 10 minutes. Challenge yourself the next day and try to beat your own record. 

Try And Involve Other People In Your Assignment

Sometimes, staying focused alone in a room full of books and papers can be challenging. Changing your location, working in an open area with people, or getting involved in your study groups can be amazing. However, they can sometimes keep you in check and accountable for what you do. As long as you do not share your answers, working together in a group is not cheating.

Staying focused on homework might seem challenging. There are constant distractions, but it is entirely achievable with the right strategies. Understanding the reasons behind your lack of focus can significantly improve your concentration. Staying focused can be developed with practice and dedication. With these tips, you can transform your study habits. Keep in mind that staying focused isn’t just about willpower. Therefore, it is about creating the right environment and mindset to help you succeed.

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How to Focus on Homework and Boost Productivity

Wonder why you are unable to focus while doing your homework? This common problem troubles many students and results in the loss of valuable time, which in turn leads to lower grades. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) 2023-24 School Pulse data , 75% of schools reported that students’ lack of focus had a moderate to severe negative impact on learning and staff morale.

Just imagine getting home after a tiring day with an overwhelming heap of assignments, all ready to tackle it, and then end up looking through your phone, watching TV, or checking social media again and again. It’s frustrating and unproductive. Some studies prove our environment impacts a great deal towards our concentration. A workspace well-structured and an effective time management would greatly improve focus and productivity on an individual.

Why is homework focus important?

Homework requires focus for several reasons:

Improving the quality of work delivered

Focusing on homework without distractions enables students to give their full attention to the tasks at hand. This leads to better comprehension of the material and higher-quality assignments. Distractions can result in poor understanding and subpar work, negatively impacting academic performance.

Proper time management

When students concentrate on their homework, they can complete assignments more efficiently. This effective use of time allows them to have more free time for other activities. Good time management skills developed through focused homework sessions are beneficial for balancing various responsibilities.

Better academic performance

Students who regularly complete their homework with focus tend to achieve higher marks. Consistent attention to homework assignments contributes to better academic performance . The habit of focusing on homework fosters diligence and self-discipline, which are crucial for academic and professional success.

Developing life skills

A focused approach to homework helps students develop essential life skills. By working diligently on assignments, students improve their organizational abilities, enhance critical thinking, and strengthen problem-solving skills. These competencies are valuable both in academic settings and in future professional endeavors.

Promoting responsibility and self-discipline

Being focused on homework teaches students to set priorities, manage their time effectively, and tackle challenging material without getting sidetracked. This habit of concentration lays the foundation for strong work habits, a sense of responsibility, and self-discipline. These traits are beneficial in any professional context where tasks must be managed efficiently and quality maintained.

Reducing stress and promoting mental well-being

Completing homework on time through focused effort reduces the overall workload and associated stress. When students are in control of their assignments, they experience a clearer mind and better mental well-being. This positive outlook on their educational experience can lead to improved motivation and academic success.

Creating supportive environments

Parents and educators can help students by providing environments that minimize distractions and enhance concentration. Cooperative efforts to create such spaces can incentivize students to adopt effective study habits. These habits have long-term benefits, contributing to the overall academic and personal growth of the students.

Common reasons it can be hard to focus on your homework

So why is it so hard to focus on homework at home? There are several reasons why many students get distracted:

Environmental distractions

More often than not, students get distracted by the environment they are in. Either the TV or their siblings or even the traffic view outside the window distracts concentration. If one really wants to focus over the homework, then making a silent study area might be helpful.

Digital distractions

Smartphones and social media platforms can cause high levels of distractions. The constant notifications and temptation to check updates may lead to poor concentration. These notifications could be blocked during study sessions by configuring the device settings or making use of third party apps.

Lack of interest

Matters that are boring and irrelevant become a drag on concentration. Organizing the material by relating it to personal interests, breaking down information into bite-sized, easily digestible subtasks, will help to stay focused.

Due to the fact that most of the kids in schools have spent the whole day in school, they get tired, hence they lack the concentration to do their homework. Having adequate rest and taking small breaks in between can help one avoid fatigue and develop focus.

Poor planning

If their schedules are not well-developed and properly defined, then the students may get overwhelmed and confused about where to start. Having a clear plan of action that specifies well-defined goals and timelines, guiding behavior toward those ends, structures time and reduces confusion and stress.

Stress or anxiety

Anxiety and stress may result in lack of focus and further contribute to an inability to concentrate on homework. One’s emotional well-being goes hand-in-glove with concentration abilities. Through meditation or breathing prior to doing homework, one can relax the mind and set it right for homework.

Poor study environment

A cluttered study space definitely provides ample scope for getting distracted, which, in turn, may lead to lack of concentration. Keeping the study area clean and organized will help one avoid distractions and become more productive in studies.

Excessive screen time

Overused screens weaken the ‘muscles’ of attention, making it harder to concentrate on homework. Setting limits for screen time and regular breaks from digital devices will help improve your attention and ability to focus.

Multitasking

Contrary to popular belief, multitasking diminishes your productivity. The human brain has not been wired to process multiple tasks simultaneously, as this just fragments your attention and provides poorer quality of work. As an alternative, working on one task improves concentration and results.

6 best ways to help to focus on homework

If you’ve asked yourself recently, “Why can’t I focus on homework?”, here are methods that could help you improve your focus and productivity:

1. Eliminate the digital distractions

Digital distractions require more control than just turning off notifications. They might call for deleting or turning off some apps during study periods in order to eliminate the temptation. You should block distracting sites and apps on your devices temporarily with tools like BlockSite.

Using the BlockSite browser extension and app, you can disable access to specific apps and sites and set scheduled blocking to keep your focus.

2. Creating a clear boundary during study times

Distractions can come from anywhere: well-meaning family members, your pets, or even the world outside. Drawing a distinct boundary during study times definitely helps. Set clear work hours and let others know in order to minimize your interruptions. Setting up a routine where study time is respected as sacred helps in forming a habit that reinforces focus.

3. Set clear goals

Set in your mind what needs to be done for this study session. Set large tasks into smaller, manageable bits so that the workload will look minimal and help in maintaining focus. Putting these goals in writing gives a sense of satisfaction as you check off each one. Setting specific, achievable targets will help you to focus and not procrastinate. For example, rather than saying to yourself, “I am going to do my math homework,” you can set a goal to do questions 1 through 5 of your math assignment.

4. Create a specific study space

Find a quiet, clutter-free area devoted solely to studying. Try to ensure this space is away from high-traffic areas in your home to minimize interruptions. You can personalize this space with items that help motivate you but avoid clutter. This study area helps your mind associate the space with productivity, so it will be easier to go into “study mode.” You could also invest in some good, comfortable ergonomic furniture that enables you to have better posture. There isn’t a need for a study area to be huge; in fact, most are just a small corner in a room. 

5. Pomodoro technique

Work for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. These short, frequent intervals may allow you to be focused at an increased rate. This prevents burnout by allowing the brain extremely short moments to recover. After four ‘Pomodoros,’ take a longer break. One idea behind this technique is that when tasks are divided into smaller time intervals, they seem to be less daunting. It will also enable you to track peak times of productivity and change your study schedule accordingly by keeping track of your sessions.

6. Take care of your well-being

Get enough sleep before facing your homework, and do not come to your study room when you’re thirsty or with an empty stomach. Take small breaks in which you exercise to refresh your mind. The food you eat can significantly affect your concentration. In addition, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and B vitamins will help sharpen your brain. Doing stretch exercises or taking small walks refreshes your brain, and hence, you will study again with much energy.

Take control of your homework time today

Mastering focus and productivity in homework sessions can highly affect how well a student performs at school and alleviate stress in the process. Though one cannot avoid the factors that are causing these distractions, using the right strategies and tools will make it possible to manage them properly. BlockSite and other focus tools make weeding out distractors easier and staying focused on the tasks at hand. These techniques and tools could turn this study time into a powerhouse of productivity so that you are set up for greater success.

How can I effectively take a break from my studies?

Short study breaks will be effective if they’re timed and planned. But, of course, nothing quite beats the Pomodoro Technique of 25 minutes of work and a 5-minute break. During these breaks, you should stretch or just walk a little to freshen your mind.

What are the effective techniques for studying a piece of information?

Active learning techniques like summarizing information in your own words, teaching the material to someone else, and mnemonic devices are some really great ways for retention. Additionally, spaced repetition and regular reviews can help in retaining information more effectively. 

How do I make a productive study schedule?

Plan your study schedule by noting down all your upcoming assignments and exams. Break the tasks into pieces, allocate time to each of the subjects, and finally, act on the plan. Do it consistently and live up to it as much as possible to ensure that you stop losing time..

What can I do if I feel overwhelmed by my homework load?

When feeling overwhelmed, scale down tasks into smaller portions that can be handled little by little. Try doing one thing at a time. Keep in mind the urgency and importance of an assignment to prioritize accordingly. 

Are there any tools to help keep organized homework assignments?

There are so many tools available that you can use to keep homework assignments organized, such as digital planners, Trello, or Google Keep. BlockSite can help, too, by blocking all the distracting sites, which will keep you on track while studying.

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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?

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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 !

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Distracted by Technology: Focusing Attention on Homework

By Michael Howard

Does your child stay up all night doing homework ? Is he or she often texting or online while doing homework or studying? Is it possible for students to study and do their homework effectively while being distracted by technology? Is focusing attention on homework really all that important? It’s just homework, right? 

Welcome to the 21st century. A world filled with distractions every where you turn. How is it even possible to get homework done at all, let alone focus on doing homework without being distracted by a wide variety of electronic gadgets. Back in the not so distant past, you might have heard a kid saying "It doesn't matter if I have the TV on while I do my homework. It's not like I'm studying for a test." Today, it's a bit more complicated as students and their smart phones are inseparable. What might at first glance seem harmelss, doing homework or studying while watching TV, texting or checking social media can actually impair learning the material as well as lower test scores. Research has shown that it's one of the worst study habits a student can develop.

Is There an App For That ?

With nearly everyone over the age of 10 having a cell phone and access to the internet these days, it's quite common to find students dividing their attention between texting, checking social media websites and surfing the internet while doing homework and studying for exams. Given that text messaging is the way many students communicate with each other, it's not easy for parents to explain to them that when it's time to do homework or study for an exam it's necessary to turn their phone off.

In all likelihood, they will argue about this as s tudents of all ages seem to have a misconception that they can pay attention to more than one thing at a time and that multitasking is an effective way to do homework or study for a test. How are you, their parent, going to respond? With research. In this blog post, w e reviewed the most up to date research that we could find on the subject of multitasking to give parents a better understanding of what it takes to be a successful student.

What Does Research Show About Studying While Distracted by Technology?

In a study conducted by Dr. Larry Rosen, a psychology professor at California State University - Dominguez Hills, students were observed studying for a 15 minute period where they were told to "study something important.” He found was that students generally started to lose focus after about three minutes. On average "students only spent about 65 percent of the observation period actually studying." That’s not exactly what you might consider “quality” studying time.

Dr. Rosen did another study where he surveyed high school students and asked them how often they switch from studying to doing something related to technology such as checking email, Facebook, texting or watching TV. Across all grade levels, 80% of students reported that they switch between studying and technology somewhat often to very often. Rosen calls this “Continuous Partial Attention,” meaning that most of the time, students are not focused on studying but rather are moving their attention back and forth between studying and various forms of technology. As you might expect, students who were the most distracted generally had the most windows open on their computers. Students who were less distracted had higher GPAs than students who switched back and forth fairly often and those who regularly check Facebook or text messages. Students who had strategies for studying also had higher GPAs according to Rosen’s findings.

Rosen explains, “Young people’s technology use is really about quelling anxiety...they don’t want to miss out or to be the last person to hear some news (or like or comment about a post online).” One of the major problems with texting and posting on Facebook and other social media sites while in class and/or studying, is that "they draw on the same mental resources—using language, parsing meaning—demanded by schoolwork." Ultimately, he concludes, if we want students to learn and perform at their best, smart phones and other online distractions must be managed.

Can Doing Homework While Distracted by Technology Affect Test Scores?

In another study of 8-18 year old students done by the Kaiser Family Foundation, nearly one third of the students surveyed confessed that when they were doing homework, they were also watching TV, texting, or listening to music. Victoria Rideout, the lead author of the study, warns parents about the dangers of media multitasking. This concern is distinct from worrying about how much kids are online or how much kids are media multitasking overall. “It’s multitasking while learning that has the biggest potential downside,”she says.

If a student is focused when doing their homework, they actually retain more of the information when it comes time to take a test on the same subject matter. It's like studying for the test little by little and absorbing the information in small chunks. The strategy of ‘chunking’ bits of information has been shown to be the most effective way to learn larger amounts of information and is a useful test prep strategy. If a student does her homework while multitasking, that will result in less information being retained and therefore  more time will be required for test preparation in order to achieve the same result. Compounding matters, if homework is done while multitasking in an introductory class, it will be more difficult to build on that “shaky foundation of knowledge” in the more advanced class the next semester.

Dr. David Meyer, a psychology professor at the University of Michigan observed that “under most conditions, the brain simply cannot do two complex tasks at the same time. Listening to a lecture while texting, or doing homework and being on Facebook—each of these tasks is very demanding, and each of them uses the same area of the brain, the prefrontal cortex." Most students incorrectly believe that they can perform two challenging tasks at the same time, according to Meyer. They may like to do it, they may even be addicted to it, but there’s no getting around the fact that it’s far better to focus on one task from start to finish.”

Quick Test for Students to Determine if Multitasking Impacts Performance

Here’s a fun, 3 minute test that you can do along with your kids to demonstrate if multitasking impacts performance (and the time it takes to complete homework).  Taking this simple test will allow students to see for themselves if multitasking could potentially be affecting their studying.

http://davecrenshaw.com/multitasking-example/

Top 3 Negative Outcomes of Studying While Being Distracted by Technology

According to an article by Annie Murphy Paul , research has shown that there are various negative outcomes that result from students multitasking while doing homework. Paul describes the top 3 negative outcomes. "First, the assignment takes longer to complete, because of the time spent on distracting activities and because, upon returning to the assignment, the student has to re-familiarize himself with the material.” Second, the mental fatigue caused by repeatedly dropping and picking up a mental thread leads to more mistakes. “Third, students’ subsequent memory of what they’re working on will be impaired if their attention is divided.” Paul explains, “The moment of encoding information is what matters most for retention, and dozens of laboratory studies have demonstrated that when our attention is divided during encoding, we remember that piece of information less well—or not at all."

Paul goes on to write, "Finally, researchers have found that media multitasking while learning is correlated with lower grades. In Rosen’s study (discussed above), students who used Facebook during the 15-minute observation period had lower grade-point averages than those who didn’t go on the site. In addition, two recent studies by Reynol Junco , a faculty associate at Harvard’s Berkan Center for Internet & Society , found that texting and using Facebook—in class and while doing homework—were negatively correlated with college students’ GPAs."

In conclusion, the evidence is overwhelming. Studying or doing homework while sitting in front of the TV, using social media or texting, makes it more difficult to learn and retain the information, increases the time it takes to complete homework, and may ultimately result in lower test scores.

Is your child attached to his smart phone or other electronic gadgets? If so, and grades are suffering, it might be time to take action. Are you ready to help your child  break the multitasking habit, learn to focus attention on homework and get on the path to academic success?

How Parents Can Help Children Manage Distractions While Studying

Teach your child to take technology breaks to separate doing homework from using technology. Here's the strategy: After your child has worked on his homework without interruption for 15 minutes, he is then allowed a technology break for 2-3 minutes to text and post to social media. When the break time is up, you instruct him to turn off his electronic devices for another 15 minutes of doing homework or studying. Students can extend their working time to 20, 30 or 45 minutes and perhaps extend their technology break time to 5-7 minutes. If your child complains that the technology break time is too short, you can let him know that when he is finished with his homework, he can use technology for as long as he wants (or whatever amount of time you say is ok).

Would you like to cut your child's homework time in half?

If so, click below to download our free guide to "Cutting Homework Time in Half."  You might also want to contact us to see if Executive Function coaching can help your child with focusing attention on homework .

Photo credit: Gitte Laasby

Attribution: A much more detailed discussion of some of these studies can be found in Slate Magazine (May 3, 2013) by Annie Murphy Paul , a fellow at the New America Foundation and author of the book Brilliant: The Science of How We Get Smarter.

Michael Howard is the Director of Marketing for Beyond BookSmart. He joined the company in 2012 and works remotely from Los Angeles. He is responsible for researching and developing marketing strategies, marketing materials, updating and optimizing the company website, social media, and search engine optimization. Michael earned his BA in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and his MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Lamar University .

About the Author

Michael howard.

Michael Howard is the Lead Marketing Strategist for Beyond BookSmart. He joined the company in 2012 and works remotely from Los Angeles. He is responsible for researching and developing marketing strategies, marketing materials, updating and optimizing the company website, social media, and search engine optimization. Michael is also involved with researching and recruiting potential candidates for employment. Michael earned his BA in Psychology from the University of Illinois, Champaign and his MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Lamar University.

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Is Homework Beneficial: Exploring the Pros, Cons, and Current Debates

Homework has been a cornerstone of education for generations. It has sparked endless debates among educators, parents, and students. Some see it as a vital tool for children’s learning. Others view it as an unnecessary burden that can cause stress and burnout. Still, most teachers assign homework. They believe additional tasks improve student achievement. As educational methods evolve, we must ask: does homework help students? Does it assist in learning and good study habits? Or does it just add to the pressures of a demanding school establishment? Let’s delve into the pros and cons of homework students receive daily to understand its role in modern education.

Table of Content

Tracing the Roots: A Historical Perspective on Homework

Homework has a long, varied history. It goes back centuries to the start of formal education. In ancient civilizations, only the upper classes received an education. Learning often took place at home, under a tutor or family member. In the 19th century, public education systems developed. Then, homework became a standard practice. It aimed to reinforce school lessons and instill discipline in students.

In the early 20th century, homework faced backlash in the U.S. Some educators and parents argued it stressed kids and cut into family time. During this time, progressive education movements gained momentum. They advocated for less rote memorization and more hands-on learning. However, the Cold War changed views on homework. The 1957 launch of the Soviet satellite Sputnik spurred the U.S. to prioritize math and science education. Homework was then seen as essential for academic competitiveness and national security. Indeed, teachers see till now how homework improves student achievement.

Today, the debate continues. We are reassessing homework’s role in a changing education system. We must balance academic rigor with students’ well-being. Understanding the history of homework helps us see its deep roots. It also explains why it is a contentious issue in education. The National Parent-Teacher Association oversees the quality of the educational process.

Homework has long been a staple in education. It bridges school and home, reinforcing learning and building skills. However, homework’s role in education is more complex than just extra student practice.

Psychological Impacts

One often overlooked aspect of homework is its influence on students’ psychics. Moderate homework can build discipline and responsibility. However, too much of it can cause stress and anxiety. Younger students may lack the skills to handle heavy homework, which can harm their mental health and love of learning. Educators and parents must recognize these stressors. They should adjust homework policies to support, not hinder, a child’s education.

The Role of Socioeconomic Status

Socioeconomic status plays a crucial role in how homework affects students. For affluent families, homework may be easy. They have a good environment and access to resources like books, the Internet, and quiet study spaces. In contrast, lower-income students might face challenges. They may lack access to the necessary resources. They might live in a noisy, crowded home. They may also have to work part-time or care for siblings. These disparities can make homework harder and widen the achievement gap. For this reason, schools must consider these factors when assigning homework. They should also support students to ensure a fair chance to succeed.

The Influence of Technology on Homework

Technology has significantly changed how homework is assigned and completed in today’s digital age. Many educators use online platforms to assign, collect, and grade homework, which can make learning more interactive and engaging. However, this shift also raises concerns about digital equity. Some students lack access to computers or reliable Internet at home, hindering their ability to complete home tasks. Additionally, there is a debate about screen time’s impact on students’ health. It suggests that digital homework should be balanced with offline assignments.

Cultural Perspectives on Homework

Cultural attitudes towards homework vary significantly around the world. In some countries, homework is vital to education. It shows a strong focus on academic success and discipline. Otherwise, some nations want to reduce homework. They seek a better balance with time for play, creativity, and family. Educators in diverse communities must understand these cultural differences. It’s key to developing homework policies that respect all students and families.

Strengthening Learning and Developing Skills

Homework has various benefits:

• It can greatly improve a student’s education and growth.
• It helps students retain skills, build life skills, and boost parental involvement.
• One of the most notable advantages is its role in reinforcing classroom learning.
• Homework helps students remember what they learned in school by revisiting those concepts.

Repeated exposure is crucial for mastering subjects. It’s especially true in math and language arts, where skills are built incrementally if you attend college. As a result, HW tasks help to develop children’s academic strengths.

Moreover, homework fosters essential skills that extend beyond academics. Students develop many skills by completing assignments outside of class. These include time management, self-discipline, and responsibility. Students learn to organize, prioritize, and work independently by dedicating time to study and homework. These skills are vital for academic success in school and work.

Also, homework lets parents engage with their child’s education. When parents help with assignments to high school boys and girls, they learn what their kids are studying. This can improve communication and collaboration with teachers. This helps create a supportive home learning environment. It reinforces that education is a shared responsibility among students, teachers, and families.

When students feel confident, they have good college attendance. Together, these create a better education. If you need help with HW assignments, feel free to address Edubrain for homework answers .

The Drawbacks of Homework

Homework aims to benefit students. However, it has downsides, and some teachers prefer to eliminate homework. This has sparked debate among educators, parents, and students. One of the most significant concerns is the stress and burnout that homework can cause. As academic demands rise, students feel overwhelmed by too many assignments and marks in a high school journal.

This causes anxiety and harms their mental health. This stress can hinder their ability to socialize, relax, and join activities. All are crucial for healthy development and well-being.

Another major drawback is the role homework can play in exacerbating educational inequalities. Not all students have the same access to resources and support outside of school. For instance, low-income students may lack a quiet space to study, have limited access to educational materials for homework, or face extra responsibilities at home. These factors can make it hard to complete homework. This gap can widen the academic achievement gap, hurting struggling students. These students need to finish homework fast, so they need help.

Also, there is debate about homework’s effectiveness in improving learning. Some research suggests that too much homework can backfire. This is especially true for elementary school students.

They may lack the skills or attention span to benefit from long study sessions during the school day and outside of school. In such cases, homework may not help learning. It can instead cause frustration and disengagement. Homework and academic success influence attending college.

Here’s a comparative table outlining the pros and cons of homework:

This table shows the pros and cons of schoolwork. It shows the need for a balanced approach to HW tasks, weighing its benefits and drawbacks.

The Complex Homework’s Impact on Learning

Research on the effectiveness of homework reveals a complex and often contradictory picture. Many studies have explored how homework affects students. Results vary by age, subject, and assignment quality.

Homework for the Youngest

Research generally suggests that homework has limited benefits for younger students. It reveals no academic gains for elementary students. Too much homework now can hurt kids’ love of learning, raise stress, and lower their enthusiasm for school. Experts agree that homework should be minimal for young kids. It should foster a love of learning, not drill-specific skills.

Homework in Middle and High School Periods

As students move to middle and high school, additional homework helps improve their grades. Research shows that moderate homework can boost learning and grades. This is especially true for math and science. However, this positive correlation plateaus when the amount of homework is excessive. Studies show that high school students swamped with homework may suffer. The stress can harm their mental health and well-being.

Homework Develops Kid as a Person

Research also shows that homework helps develop skills beyond academics. It improves time management, self-discipline, and independent problem-solving, which are crucial for success in higher education and the workforce. However, the effectiveness of homework in fostering these skills depends on the nature of the assignments. Homework that is meaningful and well-designed is better than busywork. It is more likely to help students if it aligns with classroom instruction. Busy work just wastes time and adds no value.

Overall, research findings underscore the importance of a balanced approach to homework. Homework can help learn and build skills. Still, its benefits depend on its quality and quantity. It also helps prepare for standardized tests. Finding the right balance is key to maximizing its positive impact on students’ education and well-being. Students can use different resources for assignments.

For example, they can Google “ how to use AI for homework ” and use AI to improve academic achievement.

Rethinking the Role of Homework in Modern Education

Homework’s role in education is a hot debate. Views and practices are shifting, reflecting changes in educational philosophies and priorities. A recent movement is growing among educators, parents, and policymakers. They want to reassess the traditional approach to completing homework. Concerns over student well-being and homework’s effectiveness in promoting learning drive this.

One major trend is the push toward a more personalized approach to homework. Some schools are testing differentiated homework policies. They know each student has unique needs, abilities, and home environments. This approach tailors homework to each student’s learning style and pace. It aims to make it more relevant and manageable. Personalized homework wants to engage middle school students and encourage ownership of their learning. Still, it should not overwhelm them with tasks that may not suit their needs.

Another trend is to assign less homework, particularly in elementary schools. Some educators and schools are adopting a “no homework” policy for young students, and others are reducing homework. This shift is based on research. It suggests that less excessive homework in the early years can foster a positive attitude towards school and prevent burnout. It also allows time for play, family, and activities, essential for holistic development.

In addition, there is a growing emphasis on the quality rather than the quantity of homework. Educators are urged to assign meaningful homework. It should reinforce learning and promote critical thinking, not memorization or busy work. Pupils should not just finish homework fast ; they should understand what and why they did it. This trend supports many education goals, including building problem-solving skills and a love of learning.

Technological advancements are also influencing current debates about homework. Digital tools and online resources offer new opportunities for engaging, interactive assignments. They let high school students access a wealth of information and learn in more dynamic ways. However, this shift raises concerns about screen time and access to technology. It also highlights the need for guidance on using digital resources effectively.

Overall, the current debates and trends in homework reflect a broader reevaluation of its role in education. Excessive homework will be a hot topic as schools adapt to students’ diverse needs. Discussions will focus on best supporting elementary school students’ learning and well-being.

Conclusion: Striking the Right Balance in Homework Practices

The debate over homework’s value is ongoing. It reflects varying views on its effect on student learning, social skills and well-being. Homework can reinforce learning and build life skills. However, it can also cause stress, increase inequality, and fail to boost grades. As education changes, we must rethink the role of homework. It should support, not hinder, student success.

Recommendations for Effective Homework Practices:

• Quality over Quantity: Focus on the quality of assignments rather than the amount. Homework should be meaningful, purposeful, and aligned with what elementary school students are learning in the classroom. It should promote critical thinking and problem-solving, not just drill facts or practice repetitive tasks.
• Age-Appropriate Assignments: Tailor homework to the student’s developmental stage. Younger children should have little homework. It should foster a love of learning. Older students can handle increased homework and can take home assignments. Homework should build on classroom lessons and prepare them for college and jobs.
• Personalized Homework: Consider each student’s unique needs, abilities, and circumstances. Personalized homework can help here. It can engage all students, no matter their background, with the material in a meaningful, manageable way.
• Encourage a Balanced Approach: Recognize the importance of balance in students’ lives. Homework should not overwhelm elementary students. It should not cut into family time, extracurriculars, or rest. These are critical for their development.
• Utilize Technology Wisely: Use digital tools to create engaging, interactive assignments and effective homework, such as AI science solver . But limit screen time. Ensure all students have equal access to the needed resources.

References:

For a deeper look at the research on homework, see these sources:

• Cooper, H. (2006). The Battle Over Homework: Common Ground for Administrators, Teachers, and Parents. Corwin Press.
• Kohn, A. (2006). The Homework Myth: Why Our Kids Get Too Much of a Bad Thing. Da Capo Press.
• OECD (2014). PISA 2012 Results: What Students Know and Can Do. Volume I, Revised edition, February 2014.
• Marzano, R. J., & Pickering, D. J. (2007). The Case For and Against Homework. Educational Leadership, 64(6), 74-79.

By carefully considering these recommendations and drawing from a wide range of research, educators and parents can work together to create homework practices that enhance learning, support well-being, and foster a positive educational experience for all students.

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Homework Tips for Kids: 10 Tips to Boost Success

Lomit Patel

College admissions tips: your path to success, fun and easy coding for elementary students online.

Homework can be a challenging aspect of a child’s academic journey, often causing stress for both kids and parents. But with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be a daily battle. Let’s explore some effective homework tips for kids that can transform this necessary task into a more manageable and enjoyable experience.

Table of Contents:

Designate a homework zone, stock up on supplies, minimize distractions, set a regular homework time, use a homework planner, break it down, let them take the lead, teach prioritization, use positive reinforcement, the pomodoro technique, active brain breaks, educational apps and websites, online study groups, for the procrastinator, for the easily distracted, for the perfectionist, communicating with teachers, how can i make my kids homework easier, how can i help my child with homework without being frustrated, at what age should parents stop helping with homework, how to make homework more effective, creating the right environment for success.

The first step in mastering homework tips for kids is setting up an environment conducive to learning and focus. This goes beyond finding a quiet corner – creating a space that encourages productivity and minimizes distractions.

Choose a specific area in your home dedicated to homework . This could be a desk in the bedroom, a corner of the living room, or even the kitchen table. The key is consistency.

By using the same space regularly, your child’s brain will associate that area with focused work time. Make sure this space is well-lit and comfortable. Natural light is ideal, but a good desk lamp works too.

The chair should provide proper support to avoid fatigue during longer study sessions. You should also attend school events to show your child you care about their education.

Nothing derails homework time like having to search for a pencil or calculator. Keep all necessary supplies within arm’s reach. This might include:

• Pens and pencils
• Erasers and sharpeners
• Notebooks and loose-leaf paper
• Ruler and protractor
• Dictionary and thesaurus
• Age-appropriate reference books

Having everything on hand eliminates excuses and interruptions that can break concentration. Ensure they have the special materials needed, like colored pencils or construction paper, for those special projects. Help them gather these materials beforehand, perhaps on a weekend morning, to avoid last-minute scrambling.

In today’s digital age, distractions are everywhere. Create a “distraction-free zone” by keeping phones, tablets, and other electronics out of sight during homework time. If a computer is necessary for assignments, consider using website blockers to limit access to social media and other non-educational sites.

People coming and going or loud noises can distract a child trying to focus on schoolwork. Make sure to limit those types of distractions as much as possible. Remind your child that homework time is for focusing on schoolwork and that there will be time for other activities later.

Developing a Consistent Routine

One of kids’ most crucial homework tips is establishing a consistent routine. This helps children develop good study habits and time management skills that will serve them well throughout their academic careers and beyond. These management skills are essential for success in all aspects of life. Help your child learn to prioritize assignments. Please encourage them to tackle the most challenging subjects when they’re freshest and most alert.

Decide on a specific time each day for homework and stick to it. This could be right after school, after a short break, or even after dinner. The key is consistency.

Doing homework at the same time every day becomes a natural part of the daily routine. Some children work best immediately after school when the day’s lessons are still fresh in their minds, while others might need a break to recharge before tackling assignments.

Experiment to find what works best for your child. This might mean doing math homework before easier reading assignments, for example.

Encourage your child to use a planner or calendar to keep track of assignments, due dates, and upcoming tests. This not only helps with organization but also teaches valuable time management skills.

Here’s a simple template you can use:

Review the planner regularly with your child, discussing upcoming assignments and deadlines. This helps reinforce the importance of planning and allows you to provide support where needed. Help your child understand that homework is an opportunity to practice and solidify the concepts taught in class.

Large projects or lengthy assignments can seem overwhelming. Help your child break these down into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach makes the work less daunting and provides a sense of accomplishment as each part is completed.

If a project involves research, writing, and presenting, help your child create a timeline with mini-deadlines for each stage. This will make the workload more manageable and teach valuable time management and organizational skills essential for success in all aspects of life.

Encouraging Independence and Self-Motivation

While supporting your child’s homework efforts is important, the ultimate goal is to foster independence and self-motivation. These homework tips for kids focus on building these crucial skills. You can also reward progress and celebrate successes along the way.

Resist the urge to hover or take over. Instead, allow your child to attempt assignments on their own first. This will build confidence and problem-solving skills.

Be available for questions, but encourage them to try figuring things out independently before asking for help. This encourages them to take ownership of their work and develop a sense of pride in their accomplishments. It also helps them to identify their learning style and develop strategies that work best for them. Remember, the goal is not simply to complete the assignment but to help your child understand the material.

Help your child learn to prioritize assignments. Please encourage them to tackle the most challenging subjects when they’re freshest and most alert. This might mean doing math homework before easier reading assignments, for example.

By learning to prioritize tasks, children develop important time management and organizational skills that will benefit them throughout their academic and professional lives. You should regularly check assignments and communicate with the child’s teacher to stay informed about their progress and any challenges they may face.

Praise effort and progress, not just perfect scores. Recognize when your child puts in extra effort or shows improvement. This builds intrinsic motivation and a growth mindset.

Instead of saying “good job,” be specific in your praise. For example, you could say, “I’m really impressed with how much effort you put into that math problem, even though it was challenging.” This helps your child feel good about their work and encourages them to strive for improvement.

Incorporating Breaks and Movement

Sitting for long periods can lead to fatigue and decreased focus. Incorporating strategic breaks and movement into homework time can improve productivity and retention. Encourage your child to take a short break every 30-45 minutes, especially when working on a challenging task. During breaks, encourage physical activity. This could be a quick jump rope game, a dance party to a favorite song, or even stretching. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, improving focus and cognitive function.

This time management method involves working for 25-minute intervals and short 5-minute breaks. After four “pomodoros,” take a longer 15-30 minute break. This technique can be especially effective for older children and teens.

It breaks down work into manageable chunks and encourages regular breaks, which can help maintain focus and prevent burnout. Please encourage your child to experiment with different break activities to find what works best for them.

During breaks, encourage physical activity. This could be a quick jump rope game, a dance party to a favorite song, or even stretching. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, improving focus and cognitive function.

Even a few minutes of movement can significantly affect a child’s energy levels and concentration ability. Please encourage them to get up and move around, maybe even step outside for a few minutes of fresh air. This can help clear their head and improve their overall mood.

Leveraging Technology Wisely

While technology can be a distraction, when used wisely, it can also be a powerful tool in your arsenal of homework tips for kids. However, it’s essential to establish clear guidelines for technology use during homework time. Please help your child understand the difference between using technology for educational purposes and entertainment.

Numerous apps and websites are designed to support learning and make homework more engaging. These tools can supplement traditional homework methods, from math practice to vocabulary building.

Many of these resources are free or offer affordable subscriptions, making them accessible to many families. Be sure to preview any apps or websites before allowing your child to use them to ensure they are age-appropriate and align with their learning goals.

For older students, online study groups can be beneficial. Platforms like Zoom or Google Meet allow kids to collaborate with classmates on group projects or study together for tests, even when they can’t meet in person.

This can be especially helpful for students who thrive in collaborative learning environments. It’s also a great way for kids to stay connected with their classmates and support each other academically.

Addressing Specific Challenges

Every child is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Here are some homework tips for kids facing specific challenges:

If your child tends to put off homework, try the “5-minute rule.” Encourage them to start working for just five minutes. Often, getting started is the hardest part, and they’ll likely continue once they’ve begun.

You can also try breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks to make them seem less daunting. Another helpful strategy is to create a visual timer so your child can see the time passing as they work.

Consider noise-canceling headphones or soft background music to help drown out distracting noises. Some children focus better on white noise or nature sounds playing quietly in the background.

Experiment with different sensory inputs to find what works best for your child. You can also create a visual barrier, like a cardboard divider, to minimize visual distractions in their workspace.

Help your child understand that mistakes are a normal part of learning. Please encourage them to focus on progress rather than perfection. Set time limits for assignments to prevent excessive agonizing over details.

It’s important to teach your child that it’s okay to make mistakes and that learning from them is a valuable part of the learning process. You can also model this behavior by sharing your experiences with making mistakes and learning from them.

Open communication with teachers is crucial for supporting your child’s homework success. Don’t hesitate to contact them if your child consistently struggles with assignments.

Attend parent-teacher conferences and stay informed about classroom expectations. Many schools use online portals where parents can check assignments and grades. Regularly reviewing this information can help you stay on top of your child’s progress and identify areas where they might need extra support.

FAQs about homework tips for kids

To make homework easier for kids, create a dedicated study space, establish a consistent routine, break tasks into smaller chunks, and use positive reinforcement. Also, ensure they have all necessary supplies and minimize distractions during homework time. Ensuring your child has a well-lit and comfortable workplace is also essential. A well-lit place is crucial for avoiding eye strain and fatigue. Please encourage them to take short breaks and move around to avoid restlessness.

To avoid frustration, maintain calm, take breaks when needed, and focus on praising effort rather than results. Encourage independence by guiding rather than doing the work for them. If you feel overwhelmed, consider seeking help from a tutor or the child’s teacher. Remember, your role is to support your child’s learning, not to do the work for them.

No fixed age depends on the child’s maturity and independence. Generally, parents should gradually reduce direct help as children progress through middle school , focusing more on providing structure and support rather than hands-on assistance by high school. Allowing them to manage their time and assignments independently encourages them to become more self-directed in their learning.

To make homework more effective, ensure a distraction-free environment, use a planner to organize tasks, incorporate active recall techniques like self-quizzing, take regular short breaks, and connect homework to real-life applications when possible. Also, encourage your child to review and reflect on completed work. You can help your child make connections between their homework and the real world by discussing how the concepts they are learning apply to everyday situations. For instance, if they’re working on fractions in math, you could talk about how fractions are used in baking or measuring ingredients. Please encourage them to ask questions and seek clarification from you and their teachers when needed. This will help them better understand the material and build confidence in their learning ability.

Implementing these homework tips for kids can transform the homework experience from a daily struggle into an opportunity for growth and learning. Remember, the goal isn’t just to get through homework but to develop lifelong study skills and a love for learning. Every child is different, so be patient and willing to adjust your approach as needed. With consistency, positive reinforcement, and the right strategies, you can help your child build the skills they need for academic success and beyond. Help your child understand that homework is an important part of their education and that by working hard and staying organized, they can achieve their academic goals.

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