How to focus the hell out of school?

How can I really focus on school?

I’m in Year 9 in the UK and I’ve been struggling this year. I should be among the top students in my assessments, but I find it hard to concentrate in class. I can’t seem to work quickly, the words won’t flow from my pen, and I’m also battling with sleep issues—getting up at 6 am doesn’t leave me with much rest.

My final set of assessments is coming up, and they are crucial for determining whether I’ll be placed in higher or lower GCSE tiers. I’ve even dropped a few sets in subjects where I shouldn’t have. Unfortunately, my school rarely changes sets after the start of the year, so if I don’t do well on these assessments, my chances of improving my situation next year are slim. I really need some advice!

One Reply to “How to focus the hell out of school?”

It sounds like you’re under a lot of pressure right now, but it’s great that you’re reaching out for help! Here are some strategies you can try to improve your focus and performance in school:

1. Create a Study Schedule:

Break your studying into manageable chunks. Dedicate specific times for each subject and stick to that routine.
Include breaks; studying for long periods without rest can lead to burnout.

2. Prioritize Sleep:

Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
Avoid screens at least an hour before bedtime, as the blue light can disrupt your sleep.

3. Minimize Distractions:

Find a quiet, comfortable place to study where you won’t be interrupted.
Use apps that block distracting websites or notifications during study time.

4. Set Clear Goals:

Write down specific, achievable goals for each study session. For example, “I will complete two math worksheets” or “I will review my history notes for 30 minutes.”
Reward yourself for completing these goals, even if it’s just a small treat.

5. Practice Mindfulness Techniques:

Try mindfulness or breathing exercises to help calm your mind and improve focus. This can be as simple as taking a few deep breaths before starting a task.
Some students find that short meditation sessions help clear their mind and boost concentration.

6. Stay Organized:

Keep your notes and materials organized. Use folders or digital tools to track assignments and deadlines.
A planner can help keep your tasks in order and prevent last-minute cramming.

7. Seek Help:

Don’t hesitate to ask for help from teachers or classmates if you’re struggling with certain concepts.
Consider joining study groups or finding a study buddy to keep each other motivated.

8. Stay Active & Eat Well:

Engage in regular physical activity; it can boost your mood and energy levels.
Eat balanced meals and stay hydrated; nutrition plays an essential role in your performance and focus.

9. Test-taking Strategies:

Practice past papers or similar assessments under timed conditions to get used to the pressure.
Learn test-taking strategies, such as reading questions carefully and managing your time during assessments.

10. Stay Positive:

Focus on progress, not perfection. Celebrate your improvements, no matter how small.
Remind yourself that setbacks can happen, and they don’t define your future success.

Remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times, but taking small, consistent steps can lead to significant improvements. Stay motivated and believe in yourself—you can do this! Good luck!

How to focus the hell out of school?