Improving Focus

Minimizing distractions in your workspace is one of the best ways to help your brain get into work mode. Here are some strategies to consider:

Physical workspace

If youʼre working in a room with a door, close the door to reduce interruption.
Sit at a desk or table where you can spread out your materials.
Remove anything from your workspace not related to the task at hand.
Use a chair that is comfortable, but not so comfortable youʼll fall asleep in it.
Wear ear plugs or listen to background music to reduce ambient sound distractions.
Let others know in advance when youʼre available to talk and when youʼd like to be left alone to study.
If youʼre working in your room, make your bed to reduce the temptation to work in it or to take a counter-productively long nap. (If you do nap, keep it under 20 minutes.)
Provide yourself with healthy things to drink or snack on.
As tempting as it is to work in pajamas, this may not be conducive to feeling committed to the exertions of learning. So, get ready for the day as if you were going to class or a meeting.

Turn off all phone and computer notifications.
Close unnecessary tabs.
Use multiple desktops to organize your workspace.
Maximize the window youʼre working in.
Try a focus tool or productivity app; see our apps and tools page for ideas.
Schedule time for the things that usually distract you, like email or social media.
If necessary, use an away message for email or messaging apps.

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Improving Focus

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