The art of single-tasking

Revision can be tough in this Age of Distraction.  It's difficult not to read and answer texts as we study, or not to check our Facebook page as we type.  But, on this last weekend before exams, it's worth single-tasking over the next few days.

1. Have a plan

There's no need to spend a lot of time of this, but it is important to set out your goals before you start.  List the subject areas you need to cover and split your time up between them.  You may need to spend a little more time on a more difficult subject; it's usually good to start with the subject you find most challenging.

2. Ditch the distractions

Divide your time into "study time" and "relaxation time".  Experts recommend regular breaks, e.g. studying for 50 minutes followed by a 10 minute break.  These days, we often multitask without realizing it.   Most of us have internet access on our laptops and we carry our mobile phones with us at all times.  For this weekend, during "study time", we should switch off and promise ourselves to only check our devices during "relaxation time".  If you spend your "study time" entirely focused on your revision, then you get to enjoy guilt-free "relaxation time"!

3. Take care of yourself

In addition to regular breaks, it is important to remember that eating well, exercising and getting enough sleep all contribute to good concentration skills and better memory.

Best of luck with your revision...

Sources:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/nextavenue/2013/05/08/why-single-tasking-makes-you-smarter/

http://www2.yk.psu.edu/student-affairs/2012/02/learning-and-multitasking-can-we-do-both/

(Image: "Revision" by jim crossley via Flickr)