If you’re like most of us, <a href="https://freedom.to/blog/how-to-block-the-internet/">distracting websites and apps can be the death of any productive</a>, focused studying session. You sit down to study and before you can even begin, you get a notification or a headline catches your eye. Seemingly small distractions like these quickly steal minutes and then hours. On average, it takes <a href="https://freedom.to/blog/3-psychological-factors-negatively-impacting-your-productivity/">23 minutes</a> to <a href="http://blog.skillshare.com/learn/psychological-factors-negatively-impacting-your-productivity">refocus on your work</a> once interrupted.

Block distracting websites + apps on your phone, tablet, and com

When studying for an exam, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information to learn. Most of the stress associated with studying is a result of poor planning and time management that leads to stressful cramming the night before.Research has shown that dividing your study into multiple, spaced out session <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/07/health/views/07mind.html">greatly improves retention</a> over time. So although cramming could work for the test the next day, the information is a lot more likely to be forgotten immediately after. It’s also a lot easy to maintain focus for 5 minutes at a time, rather than for an eight-hour coming session.

 Divide up + space out study sessions.

<ul><li>Flat, clear, surface with enough space to comfortably hold all your materials and laptop</li><li>Outlets – if you need your computer to study, ensuring you have a close power supply can prevent the need to get up and break your flow</li></ul>

find a suitable environment

The <a href="https://freedom.to/blog/productivitys-power-couple-freedom-the-pomodoro-technique/">Pomodoro Technique</a> is perfect for splitting your study sessions into manageable chunks of time. It’s simple – select one task to work on, set a timer, work until it rings, and then take a break.

Use the Pomodoro Technique

When it comes to taking your studying to the next level, having the right tools can make all the difference. Whether you need help organizing, prioritizing, or focusing – there are tools that can help ease some of the pain points.

Find the best tools

Location, location, location. Finding where you work best is an essential part of any successful studying session. For some, the quiet of a library is essential, but for others, the light bustle of a coffee shop can be just the right amount of background noise to stay focused. But whatever your background noise preference, it’s important that your study spot has a few things

 Find a suitable environment.

When it comes to staying focused while studying, it’s important to create a routine to help you find your flow and focus. A good place to start is having a <a href="http://calnewport.com/blog/2014/09/13/deep-habits-jumpstart-your-concentration-with-a-depth-ritual/">pre</a><a href="https://calnewport.com/blog/2014/09/13/deep-habits-jumpstart-your-concentration-with-a-depth-ritual/">-study ritual</a> that involves things like clearing your desk, closing your door, grabbing all the materials you’ll need, putting on some headphones, and creating a to-do list. Taking five minutes to set up your workspace will not only physically prepare you to study, but also help train your brain to transition into a state of focus more effortlessly.

Create a study ritual.

Everyone has trouble focusing sometimes. Here are 10 tips on how to stay focused while studying, to help make this your best school year yet.

Divide up + space out study sessions.

Similar ideas to Divide up + space out study sessions.

Space out your study sessions

The Essay Memorization Technique

Scientific Backed Ways To Learn Better