It’s that time of year again – exams are just around the corner. For some, this may be a stress-free and exciting time. However, for others, exams can be a very anxious and daunting experience. The key is to go back to basics and study.
And when it comes to studying, your focus is key. Whether you’re trying to learn material for an upcoming test or just wanting to improve your understanding of the subject matter, paying attention and retaining information can be a challenge.
However, there are a few things you can do to help sharpen your focus and maximise your retention.
Get organised
Most students are familiar with the feeling of being overwhelmed by a mountain of material to study for an upcoming test. It can be tough to know where to start, and even tougher to stay focused. However, some simple steps can help you get organised and sharpen your focus, leading to better retention when it comes time to take the test.
One of the most important things you can do is create a study schedule. By sitting down and mapping out when you will study which material, you can avoid feeling overwhelmed and reduce the likelihood of procrastination. It can also be helpful to create a dedicated study space, free from distractions like your phone or television.
You can also make a list of everything you need to cover, and then break each item down into smaller, more manageable tasks. Once you have a plan of attack, you can focus on one task at a time and give it your full attention. You’ll be surprised how much more you can learn when you’re not trying to juggle a million different things at once.
So if you’re struggling to focus, take a few minutes to organise your study space. It might just be the thing that helps you ace that final exam.
Pause but don’t stop
It’s a common misconception that the best way to study for an exam is to sit down and cram for hours on end. However, recent Coffs Harbour research has shown that taking regular breaks can improve your focus and help you retain information more effectively.
When you’re studying for an extended period, your brain becomes fatigued, and your ability to concentrate decreases. When you focus intensely on a task, your brain enters what is known as a “disengagement mode.” This is a survival mechanism that helps prevent information overload.
Taking a break allows your brain to process the information it has taken in and helps you to focus when you come back to the task at hand. By taking a few minutes to step away from your studies, you give your mind a chance to rest and recharge. As a result, you’ll be able to return to your work with fresh energy and a renewed focus.
Another study, this time from the Central Coast, has shown that spaced repetition – or review sessions spread out over time – is more effective than massed practice or cramming all at once. So if you’re looking to maximise your study time, be sure to take regular breaks and spread out your review sessions. Your brain will thank you!
Extra hands, extra help
Most students are familiar with the standard study methods of reading textbooks and attending lectures. However, for many students, these methods are not enough to help them achieve their desired results. This is where tutoring comes in.
Tutoring is an excellent way to improve your focus when studying for exams. When you have one-on-one attention from a tutor, you can get more out of your study sessions. Tutors can also help keep you accountable and on track with your studies. They can also provide valuable feedback and resources.
While some students may feel tutoring is only for those who are struggling, the truth is that tutoring can be beneficial for all students. Tutors can provide valuable insights into examination techniques and tips for maximising marks for those studious perfectionists.
If you are struggling to retain information or stay focused when studying, consider getting one. Tutoring centres offer a variety of services and can match you with a tutor who specialises in your area of need. HSC tutors, in particular, can be very helpful in the lead up to exams. Many year 12 tutors offer discounts for group tutoring, so it is worth considering this option if you are on a budget.
Whichever route you choose, getting a tutor is an excellent way to sharpen your focus and ensure maximum retention when studying for exams.
Take the less travelled route
Studying for exams can be a daunting task, especially when you feel like you’re not retaining anything. Resorting to a less common approach won’t hurt like alternative forms of therapy. For example, a hypnosis course can help you sharpen your focus and retain information more effectively.
Hypnosis is a powerful tool that can help students sharpen their focus and improve their retention when studying for exams. By entering into a state of focused concentration, students can more effectively take in and retain information.
During hypnosis, your mind is more open to suggestions, making it easier to focus on the task at hand. In addition, hypnosis can help to relax your mind and body, reducing stress and anxiety. This will help you to study more effectively and retain more information.
In addition to hypnosis, NLP training can also help you sharpen your focus when studying. NLP stands for Neuro-Linguistic Programming, and it’s a process that helps you to reframe your thoughts and beliefs. As a result, you’ll be better able to focus on the task at hand and achieve your goals.
So if you’re looking for ways to improve your studying habits, hypnosis and NLP training are two great options to consider.
Conclusion
There are many different ways to sharpen your focus when studying. Some methods, like taking breaks and enlisting the help of a tutor, are more traditional. Others, like hypnosis and NLP training, are more out-of-the-box. Ultimately, the best way to improve your focus when studying is to find what works best for you. Experiment with different techniques and see what helps you to achieve maximum retention. By finding the right method for you, you’ll be able to ace your exams in no time!
