How Long Can YOU Concentrate?

Most people can't focus on one thing for much longer than 20 minutes.
There are some tasks you probably can't focus on for more than 3 minutes!

So, it's worth the effort to try to improve. An easy way is to use a Concentration Monitor every day for about a week when you study. Use it for the same class over several days to see some progress.

WHAT IS THE CONCENTRATION MONITOR?

A Concentration Monitor is a really simple tool that lets you "pay attention to your attention."

It's a way of catching yourself when you aren't paying attention. It reminds you to stop daydreaming and get back on track.

How Do I Use A Concentration Monitor?

1. Choose an assignment and list the task(s) you want to complete.
   (Example: Read 10 pages of Psych.)

2. Decide how long you will spend on the assignment. Jot down the date, place, begin time and projected end time.

3. Now monitor your concentration.

   Every time your mind wanders even a little, make a check mark () (Who knows? You may have a few or a hundred!)

4. Record any breaks or interruptions.
   -- Who or what interrupted you?
   -- How long did it take?
   -- Did you decide to take some breaks?
   -- How long was each one?

   Record the time that you actually stopped studying.

   Calculate the time you actually spent studying.

5. Rate your concentration level and the effects of your study place, interruptions and breaks.

How Can I Make Better Concentration a Habit?

Download this form and try it!

Study Tips Home >>

AAC Home  l  Study Tips Home   l  Keeping Up  l  GPA Tools  l  Memory
Time Management  |  Handling Reading  l  Lecture Notes  l  Exam Prep  l  Concentration

Please send revisions for this Website to: ucc@ohio.edu
Last edited on Barnett
Copyright © 2013 Ohio University / University College Communications