Even when you have a schedule ready for the week there are still plenty of things that can interfere with studying. What you accomplish when studying is not just about the amount of time you spend studying, but how you use that time. In other words, how well you concentrate. Concentration is your ability to focus your attention on one specific task and ignore everything else. There are two types of distractions that effect concentration.
Internal distractions such as hunger, worry etc.
External distractions such as noise
There are a number of things you can try to eliminate distractions and improve your concentration:
1. Find a quiet place to study
Turn off the television and the radio. Silence is the best kind of music for study. If you study at home find a place in the attic or basement that is free from distractions. Always study at a desk or table, never on your bed. At school the library is the best place to study. In a library, choose individual booths along the walls rather than open tables. In your study space you should be comfortable, have good light and ventilation. How to find the best place to study.
2. Ignore noise
No matter how hard you try you will occasionally be distracted. Learn to ignore activities and noise that fall outside your focus of attention. If you are in the library studying and the door opens, don't look up. Controlling your impulse to look up will disturb your concentration at first, but eventually it will get easier.
3. Let others know your plan
Let family and friends know when you will be working so they know not to bother you. Sometimes, in order to stick to your schedule you may have to say "no." Most people will understand. Putting a "do not disturb" sign on your door will clue others that it is not a good time to visit. You should also avoid the phone when studying. Try turning the ringer off and letting your answering machine take the message.
4. Thought Stopping
Internal distractions such as daydreaming and worrying can often disrupt studying. Recognizing what you are doing can bring your mind back on task. Instead of fighting with your thoughts yell "STOP" aloud and quietly return to your work. The more you do this the better your concentration will become.
5. Checkmark Technique
This technique works on the same principle as thought stopping -using mindful awareness to bring your concentration back to your work. As you are reading place a checkmark in the margin of your book when you notice your thoughts wandering and then bring your attention back to your reading. With time the checks should become further and further apart as you increase your concentration.
6. Problem Solving
Worries and problems may interrupt your thoughts and make it difficult to study. If this happens, take the time to think about your problem in a constructive way. Clarify what the problem is and try to think of possible solutions. Decide what you are going to do and take appropriate action. Do not just worry about something; give it your full attention and come up with a plan so it can be resolved. When your problem is resolved you can concentrate on studying again.
7. Use a pencil
This will increase your active involvement in your work. You are free to underline, take notes, and use the checkmark technique.
8. Get Help
If you try hard to concentrate and you are still struggling with a subject find a tutor, join a study group, or find another textbook that is easier for you to understand. Link to tutor information. Distance students may want to identify other students taking the course that they can work with. You may be able to e-mail or chat online with other students taking the course.