Pay attention! How to improve concentration while studying for exams

With exams going on, one cannot help but feel a sense of panic and anxiety among students. It goes without saying that scheduled learning and preparedness are key to efficiency and success for adults and kids alike. But a few thoughtful changes to a student’s daily routine can go a long way in helping them boost focus, remember their lessons better and stay calm during exams. Here’s what we recommend…

1. Try the Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro Technique has gained a lot of attention globally in recent years. Francesco Cirillo was a university student when he developed this world renowned time-management system in the late 1980s. Under this method, one works in 25-minute increments at a stretch, using just five-minute breaks in between. Experts have increasingly adopted and recommended this system globally to boost productivity. The term ‘pomodoro’ (which translates to ‘tomato’ in Italian) was inspired by Francesco’s tomato-shaped kitchen timer. 

2. Snack smart and stay hydrated

Stress, anxiety and fatigue are common among students while preparing for exams. Thus, mini snack breaks can come in handy for maintaining steady energy levels. Snacking smart and staying hydrated can not only help prevent mental exhaustion, but also improve focus, retentive memory and cognitive function. Nutrient-rich snacks - such as nuts, seeds, yogurt, roasted chickpeas, edamame, eggs and cottage cheese - are often recommended for children, alongside generous amounts of fruits, veggies and juices. 

3. Practice mindfulness

If you thought practising mindfulness is only for adults, you probably need to rethink it. Being present in the moment can greatly improve students’ concentration power before exams. Simple and short exercises - like deep breathing, doing grounding exercises and meditation - can calm their nerves as well as ward off negative thoughts and regulate overthinking. This, in turn, can help reduce anxiety, handle exam stress, boost focus and increase awareness.  

Also read: The value of punctuality: Why it's important for kids to be on time

4. Revise your lessons multiple times

A time-tested method - revising lessons several times before exams can dramatically boost students’ confidence, while it is also crucial for retentive memory. That said, it’s advisable to use this technique in a smart manner. Methods such as spaced repetition, using short notes and flashcards as well as making active recalls can prove effective. One can also spread out sessions to further boost long-term memory and confidence.

5. Get enough shut-eye

While sleep might remain elusive for many during exams, it’s extremely important that we try to get seven to nine hours of shut-eye every night. It can help with better focus and memory consolidation. Remember, sleep is crucial for your brain to process information and reduce stress hormones. It relaxes your nervous system, breaks the anxiety loop and promotes better mood during exams.