How to focus: The Pomodoro Technique
With so many different methods of studying out there, it can be difficult to think which one you should try out. If you want to be time efficient whilst studying, we recommend using the Pomodoro technique. This method is quite popular (so you might have already heard of it) and consists of short periods of work sessions with frequent breaks in between. This method ensures to give your mind a well-deserved break when needed and promotes sustained concentration.
Is this technique for me?
If you find yourself relating to one or more of the points below, you might want to try this technique to see if your productivity increases!
- Do not normally set goals for when you study
- Do not give yourself adequate breaks that are within reason (not rewarding yourself with 1hr+ breaks!)
- Easily distracted when it comes to completing a given task
- Lack motivation when studying for long periods of time
- Have tasks that could take an unlimited time if you had the option to (e.g. research for a paper or studying for an exam)
What is the technique?
Step 1: Decide what task you need to complete
Step 2: Set a timer for 25minutes
Step 3: Focus on this task with no distractions until the timer runs out
Step 4: Reward yourself with a well-deserved 5minute break and getting ready to complete another cycle of studying
Step 5: Complete 4 cycles of this and then reward yourself with a 15-30minute break!
This studying tip is quite special because it was invented to help people focus and there is even a 130-page book about the method! It allows you to be productive whilst rewarding your efforts and avoids mental fatigue. You must ensure you stick to the timings and focus when you need to in order for this method to be most effective
In the instance where you complete your task ahead of the 25minute timer, you are recommended to do something called ‘overlearning’. Let’s say you were reading a paper and finished, go over it again to solidify your knowledge and maximise the time you need to spend focusing. How about studying? Go over the topics again so that you are certain you have learnt it properly.
Of course, there will be times when distractions occur or you need to cut the 25minutes of focusing down. That is okay! Just take a 5minute break and re-start the cycle again from the beginning.
It is easy to feel unmotivated when faced with large amounts of revision or needing to write that important paper for your next class. This method is simple and effective. We can often neglect important tasks until the last minute but this will only leave you feeling anxious and stressed. The fact that the Pomodoro technique breaks tasks down into small chunks that are more manageable and then rewarding you for it at the end, can give you that motivation you need. You can think of it this way, would you prefer 25minutes of effective work or 1hour of some work, scrolling on Instagram or checking out what Netflix has to offer? It is about making the time count and relaxing when you need to.
Plan ahead
For this method to be most effective, it is a great idea to plan your schedule. Let’s say you know you have exam revision to do so you can get your notes ready and draw up a table to record your progress. Minimise distractions by turning your phone on silent and hidden away from sight. Plan what you might need so you do not disrupt your flow. Prepare water at the side, maybe a few snacks and lay out everything you may possibly need so that you can just focus on what needs to be done.
Once you master this technique, experiment with different times that suit you. If you feel you can do more work, increase the focus time from 25minutes to perhaps 30 or even 40minutes. Also, if a 5-minute break is not enough, reward yourself with a 10minute break but remember to focus even more since you are giving yourself more time to relax.
We hope you have found this method helpful and has inspired you to become more productive when studying! Our experts love sharing their tips to encourage you to succeed in your studies and achieve those goals you have set yourself. Whether you are preparing for your UCAS application, writing a dissertation or practicing for a job interview, Geniuson can offer their expert advice and be there throughout your journey.