You've sat down in the library, pens at the ready, computer charged, phone away. You are on a roll, 10 pages read of that article that's due tomorrow, you are thinking about your thesis for the paper that's due next week and you haven't even looked at your phone yet. But then your mind begins to drift: I wonder what's for lunch today, should I be saving for my retirement instead of spending 40 dollars on post mates, and- most importantly- I wonder what my dog is doing right now?
I have always struggled with ADHD, but as I came to college, things intensified. I was met with the challenges of not having my own space to study and constant distractions of friends. I found myself organizing my pen drawer instead of doing school work that I needed to accomplish. As deadlines flew by, I realized that I needed to make a change that helped me study smarter and better without having to up my Adderall dosage.
Here is what I managed to learn:
1. Time your study periods
Aside from when you really to, studying should usually not be an all day activity. Try to find a time when you feel you are most productive (for me it's the morning) and put your nose to grindstone to get your stuff done, so you can go get donuts later.
2. Be space-ally aware
Find a couple spaces around campus that are good for you (this may not always be the library). These are spaces that minimize distraction and keep you focused. I've found that if you train yourself to study in certain spaces, your brain will associate this space with study.
3. Change it up
It may seem easy to try to plow through an entire assignment at once. But variation is key, keep your mind focused on accomplishing smaller parts of various assignments instead of one big one.
4. Choose your study buddies wisely
I love my friends that I met in college, but sometimes I find myself talking about the latest episode of Kardashian's instead of studying. If you feel like you are going to talk to your friends, DON'T STUDY WITH THEM. They'll understand.
5. Stack yo Snacks
Snackage is critical to my learning process. I like to give myself a good base of healthy snacks in my backpack (with the occasional treat). Take some time to find out what snacks gear your brain up to study.
6. Do it on Paper
My mother always taught me to edit my essays and assignments on paper. After the usual teenage rebellion and resistance, I actually found this trick to be extremely helpful (though it may waste trees).
7. Do not Disturb
Though this may seem like an obvious, but TURN YOUR PHONE OFF. I promise you that if someone really needs to get in touch with you for emergency reasons they will find a way. Chances are the people who trying to contact you during your study hours are the people who are on campus with you.
8. Ask Questions
Don't be afraid to ask questions, and if you still don't understand, ASK MORE QUESTIONS. Go into your teacher, ask your classmates, even google things you do not understand. There is a very high chance that someone else is struggling with the same concept as you.
9. Cut Down on the Caffeine
Limit your caffeiene usage. Allot a time when you not longer drink caffiene so that you can get a good night's sleep.
10. Break it Down
Don't force yourself to study for long periods of time. If you want to take a break, then take it. You will probably be more productive after giving your brain a moment to rest.
11. Treat Yo'self
Create incentives for yourself. Online shop for 20 minutes after studying for two hours or go out to dinner. The reward will feel amazing after you have been working for it.
12. Perspective
Remember that whatever education you are getting, it is a privilege. When you feel like you are about to quit, think about how lucky you are to have an education.
