Easy Focus Tips for Studying at Home: Gen Z Edition

ZALFA RYVTIA NAURAH (30802300006)

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Studying is very important for all students. Many people choose to study at home rather than outside, such as in cafes and other places, so that they can focus better and not be easily distracted. However, sometimes studying at home can be a challenge in itself. Studying at home may seem easy and more focused, but in fact, it is not that simple. There are many distractions such as notifications and the temptation to use gadgets, laziness, a noisy home environment, and the temptation of the bed calling us to sleep, all of which can distract our focus on studying. Therefore, here are 5 tips to help you focus on studying at home. 

1.      Create a Clear and Structured Study Schedule

Creating a daily as well as weekly study schedule or to-do list is important to avoid laziness, which can cause you to lose focus and ultimately delay your studies. One important step is to prioritize the tasks and subjects that will be discussed first the next day. In addition, having a fixed schedule and study hours is also important so that the brain gets used to entering “focus mode” at that time and avoids postponing and working overtime by obeying the schedule that has been made.

2.      Choose a Comfortable Place to Study

Home conditions are often not conducive to studying, which can interfere with our focus. Therefore, organizing and choosing a place to study at home is also very important so that we can fully concentrate on our activities. Choose a comfortable, quiet place to study that is well lighted and free from distractions. Also provide equipment such as a study desk, study lamp, and books to support your enthusiasm for learning, thereby increasing your focus and productivity.

3.      Limit Gadget Use

Gadgets are one of the biggest enemies that distract people from their activities, especially students from their studies. This can slow down the learning process, which ultimately leads to delays. To avoid this problem, activate do not disturb mode while studying, keep gadgets away from your study desk, and use blocking or anti-distraction apps on social media that can break your focus while studying.

4.      Apply Effective Learning Techniques

One effective way to learn is to apply the Pomodoro technique. The Pomodoro technique is a learning method that divides learning into several parts or stages. The first stage is to study for 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break, and repeat this two to four times. After completing the same four cycles, take a longer break of around 15 to 30 minutes. This technique is used to maintain focus while studying and to prevent mental exhaustion. Additionally, creating a mind map of the material to be studied is also an important step in ensuring effective learning. 

5.      Prepare Enough Water and Snacks

Concentration while studying is often interrupted not only by external factors, but also by not fulfilling your body's needs, like thirst or hunger. This means you have to leave your desk to get some water or snacks, which wastes time and breaks your concentration. That's why it's super important to have enough water and nutritious snacks ready before you start studying. Snacks should consist of healthy foods, such as fruit, nuts, or whole wheat bread, as these provide extra energy without causing drowsiness. It is also advisable to avoid foods that are too sweet or fatty, as these can actually reduce productivity. With this simple preparation, the learning process will be more efficient and continuous.