Have you ever sat down to study, only to realize that your mind keeps wandering, or you’re suddenly compelled to check your phone for the fifth time in ten minutes? It’s a common experience, especially when preparing for something as important as the ACT. With so many distractions around us — social media, texts, noise, even our own thoughts — it’s no wonder that staying focused can feel like a challenge.
But don’t worry, you’re not alone! The good news is, there are effective ways to stay on track. Whether it’s creating a distraction-free study space, breaking your study sessions into manageable chunks, or using tools and techniques that keep your brain engaged, finding your best study methods doesn’t have to be hard.
Here are some of our top tips to beat distractions while studying for your next big exam:
1. Start Early, Stress Less: Give yourself a head start. For example, beginning a few weeks or days ahead means you can study in manageable chunks rather than cramming everything the night before. Small efforts add up!
2. Make a Realistic Study Plan: Plot out a weekly schedule that balances school, study time, and breaks. Aim for consistency. 20-30 minutes a day beats eight hours once a week.
3. Know the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the exam structure. It’ll reduce surprises and improve your stamina.
4. Prioritize Your Weak Spots: Struggling with math but cruising through reading? Spend more time where you need the most work. You’ll make greater improvements by strengthening your weakest areas.
5. Use the Pomodoro Technique: Study in 25-minute focused sessions followed by 5-minute breaks. It keeps your energy up and your brain engaged. No burnout allowed!
6. Create a Study Space That Works for You: Find a quiet, comfy spot where you feel focused. Whether it’s your bedroom, a library, or that one cozy corner at your local coffee shop — make it your study sanctuary.
7. Form a Study Group: Studying with friends can help you stay motivated and reinforce what you’ve learned. Just make sure you’re actually studying and stay on track.
8. Reward Yourself: Finished a tough topic or nailed a practice test? Celebrate it! Rewards, like a snack, a walk, or some guilt-free screen time, keep your motivation high.
9. Stay Healthy (Seriously): Your brain functions better when your body is cared for. Sleep well, eat nutritious food, hydrate, and take breaks. Test prep is important, but so is your well-being.
10. Stay Positive and Focused: Your score doesn’t define you — it’s just one part of your application. Stay positive, believe in your ability to improve, and give it your best shot.
11. Use Active Recall and Practice Testing: Instead of rereading notes, quiz yourself regularly. This technique strengthens memory and helps you identify areas that need more work.
12. Teach What You’ve Learned: Explaining concepts to someone else, or even to yourself out loud, forces you to understand the material on a deeper level.
13. Incorporate Movement into Your Study Routine: Take short walks during breaks or review flashcards while stretching. Physical activity can refresh your mind and boost your concentration.
14. Limit Multitasking: Focus on one subject or task at a time. Multitasking can reduce the efficiency and quality of your learning.
15. Curate a Focus-Friendly Study Playlist: Put together a personalized playlist filled with music that helps you stay focused, energized, and in the zone. Choose instrumental tracks or ambient sounds that keep distractions at bay or go for motivational beats that boost your drive. The right soundtrack can turn a study grind into a productive groove.
You’ve got the power to stay focused and crush your study goals one step at a time. Stay committed, stay confident, and let your preparation speak volumes on test day!