You may think that studying for several hours straight without ceasing is a good use of your time. While studying a lot might do wonders, it’s actually helpful to take breaks now and then.
Every half-hour or hour, take a little break – fiteen minutes is the usual. It’ll help keep you fresh and your attention is far less likely to wander. This break could include watching a little TV, getting something to eat, some exercise, housework, or anything that takes your fancy. Another way to take a break from what you’re studying, is simply to change the subject. If you’re taking two or more courses, alternate the subject material you’re working on every couple of hours.
Equally as important, is not ignoring your body’s needs. It’s a good idea to make sure you’re not studying on an empty stomach; making sure you have a full tummy and a beverage by your side, will minimise the distractions that crop up all over the place. Also, get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can have a lot of negative effects on your ability to concentrate and retain information.
As far as distractions go, you should try and study in a place that’s least likely to keep you from studying. Some people find studying at home troublesome, because they’re tempted away from coursework by TV, computer games, pets, crafting, etc.. I’ve known people who could concentrate far better in a noisy, public place, than they could in the quiet of their own homes.
Find the place that’s best for you, and stick with it as much as possible. However, when it comes to exams, one psychologist noted: When studying for exams it often helps if your environment is as close to the one you are going to be examined in as possible. You remember more when the situation you are remembering in is similar to where you learnt the information. So studying in a quiet, highly lit, spacious area (like a library) can be better than studying in a noisy, cramped area.
