9 answers
Julianna
Student
Monterey Park, California
1
Question
Updated
3849 views
what can help me focus on my homework ?
I need to do my work but I just cant focus for some reason and it makes it hard to get good grades.I need some tips to help me stay focused and get my work done easyer.
9 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Julianna! 🌟
Focusing on homework can be a real struggle, but you've already taken the first step by asking for help — and that shows you're ready to level up! I see some amazing advice from Diana, Frida, Ashlie, and Doc, and I'd love to sprinkle in a little extra magic to help you find what works best for you.
Here's Your Ultimate Focus Formula 🔥✨
1. Brain Warm-Up 🧠 + Body Cool-Down 💪
Diana is absolutely right — moving your body gets your brain fired up. But here's the trick: don't wait 20 minutes to start — do 2-3 minutes of jumping jacks or stretching before you even sit down. This signals to your brain, "Okay, it's go-time!"
2. The Magic 25-5 Rule ⏰ (aka Pomodoro Technique)
Doc and Frida nailed this one — set a timer for 25 minutes of pure focus, then reward yourself with a 5-minute break. During the break, do something that makes you smile — dance to your favorite song, grab a snack, or even scroll for a few memes (just set a timer so you don't fall into the TikTok black hole).
3. Build Your Focus Fortress 🔥🏰
Your environment is everything.
Clean your workspace
Use noise-canceling headphones or study playlists (I recommend instrumental lo-fi or nature sounds 🌊🌿)
Put your phone in Do Not Disturb mode or use apps like Forest or Focus To-Do to lock your apps while you study.
4. Break the Boring Curse 🪄
If your brain says, "Ugh, this is boring," trick it by making things fun!
Use colorful pens
Create little quizzes for yourself
Pretend you're teaching the topic to your future self
5. Mind the Mindset 🧠💪
Sometimes we don't focus because we're afraid of messing up — but homework isn't about being perfect. It's about practicing.
Tell yourself:
"I'm not here to get everything right — I'm here to get a little better than yesterday."
If you're still struggling after trying these tips, Ashlie made a great point — it could be worth chatting with a school counselor or doctor just to make sure your brain is working at its best. However, if you hear from me, I had said you just need to give it time, and one strategy is to trick your brain. Like make it think you are enjoying it even when you are not (when you have a bruise pain, if you dont think abiut the bruise you never know if it hurts or not). Remember brains can be tricked because they are brains 🤔
You've got everything it takes to turn those grades around, Julianna — your future self is already cheering you on 📣💪🔥!
What subject is giving you the hardest time right now, start little with that and if you got it breathing hard in your head. Rememebr I am here, Maybe we can brainstorm some study tricks just for that, do let me know if you got further questions! All the best and good luck Julianna! You got this! 🤗
Focusing on homework can be a real struggle, but you've already taken the first step by asking for help — and that shows you're ready to level up! I see some amazing advice from Diana, Frida, Ashlie, and Doc, and I'd love to sprinkle in a little extra magic to help you find what works best for you.
Here's Your Ultimate Focus Formula 🔥✨
1. Brain Warm-Up 🧠 + Body Cool-Down 💪
Diana is absolutely right — moving your body gets your brain fired up. But here's the trick: don't wait 20 minutes to start — do 2-3 minutes of jumping jacks or stretching before you even sit down. This signals to your brain, "Okay, it's go-time!"
2. The Magic 25-5 Rule ⏰ (aka Pomodoro Technique)
Doc and Frida nailed this one — set a timer for 25 minutes of pure focus, then reward yourself with a 5-minute break. During the break, do something that makes you smile — dance to your favorite song, grab a snack, or even scroll for a few memes (just set a timer so you don't fall into the TikTok black hole).
3. Build Your Focus Fortress 🔥🏰
Your environment is everything.
Clean your workspace
Use noise-canceling headphones or study playlists (I recommend instrumental lo-fi or nature sounds 🌊🌿)
Put your phone in Do Not Disturb mode or use apps like Forest or Focus To-Do to lock your apps while you study.
4. Break the Boring Curse 🪄
If your brain says, "Ugh, this is boring," trick it by making things fun!
Use colorful pens
Create little quizzes for yourself
Pretend you're teaching the topic to your future self
5. Mind the Mindset 🧠💪
Sometimes we don't focus because we're afraid of messing up — but homework isn't about being perfect. It's about practicing.
Tell yourself:
"I'm not here to get everything right — I'm here to get a little better than yesterday."
If you're still struggling after trying these tips, Ashlie made a great point — it could be worth chatting with a school counselor or doctor just to make sure your brain is working at its best. However, if you hear from me, I had said you just need to give it time, and one strategy is to trick your brain. Like make it think you are enjoying it even when you are not (when you have a bruise pain, if you dont think abiut the bruise you never know if it hurts or not). Remember brains can be tricked because they are brains 🤔
You've got everything it takes to turn those grades around, Julianna — your future self is already cheering you on 📣💪🔥!
What subject is giving you the hardest time right now, start little with that and if you got it breathing hard in your head. Rememebr I am here, Maybe we can brainstorm some study tricks just for that, do let me know if you got further questions! All the best and good luck Julianna! You got this! 🤗
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1942
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
The best study techniques aren't about the hours you spend with your nose in a book. It's about how strategically you approach your learning. Developing strong study habits is vital for your academic success. Learning effective time management prepares you for long-term success in high school, college, and beyond, shaping your career and daily life. Understanding your learning style and implementing strategic study techniques can enhance efficiency and confidence. Here are couple of techniques to minimize stress and maximize performance on tests and quizzes.
STUDY TIP 1️⃣ RETRIEVAL PRACTICE
Retrieval practice is a powerful study method that focuses on recalling information from memory rather than passively reviewing notes or textbooks. This approach strengthens memory and improves long-term retention by actively engaging the brain in the learning process. Incorporating retrieval practice can involve tools like flashcards or practice tests. For example, when using flashcards, writing the answer before flipping the card encourages deeper engagement and prevents surface-level recognition. Another effective strategy is creating customised questions, mimicking the process of preparing a test, which reinforces understanding and identifies areas needing improvement. This technique becomes even more effective in group study sessions. Exchanging questions with peers fosters collaboration while enhancing recall. Discussing answers also highlights knowledge gaps, ensuring thorough comprehension. Through consistent application, retrieval practice transforms studying into a dynamic and efficient process.
STUDY TIP 2️⃣ SPACED LEARNING PRACTICE
Spaced learning, also known as distributed practice, involves studying material over intervals rather than cramming in one session. Research consistently demonstrates that revisiting content just before it is forgotten strengthens retention and enhances the brain’s ability to retrieve information later. Implementing spaced learning involves scheduling short, focused study sessions over days or weeks. For example, after learning new material in a lecture, reviewing it the next day, a week later, and again after two weeks ensures consistent reinforcement. This approach creates stronger mental connections and prevents the stress of last-minute cramming. Effective planning is essential for spaced learning. Allocating time for regular review sessions alongside new material ensures consistency throughout the term. By incorporating this method, knowledge is retained more effectively, leading to better preparation and improved performance during exams.
STUDY TIP 3️⃣ DUAL CODING PRACTICE
Dual coding is a learning strategy that involves presenting information through multiple media formats to enhance comprehension. For instance, when studying a topic, you might read about it in a textbook while also using diagrams, charts, or other visuals to reinforce the concept. This technique helps to engage different cognitive processes, making the material easier to understand and remember. To apply dual coding effectively, it’s important not to passively observe visuals but to actively engage with them. Rather than merely recognising an image or diagram, try explaining the concept it represents in your own words. Additionally, creating your own visuals based on the material you’ve read or heard in lectures can further solidify your understanding, allowing you to personalise the content. This process aligns with the idea of summarising and synthesising information. By creating visual representations such as diagrams or mind maps, you not only reinforce the material but also produce a concise reference tool for future revision. This active involvement in the learning process helps create lasting mental links, making the information more accessible when revisited later.
STUDY TIP 1️⃣ RETRIEVAL PRACTICE
Retrieval practice is a powerful study method that focuses on recalling information from memory rather than passively reviewing notes or textbooks. This approach strengthens memory and improves long-term retention by actively engaging the brain in the learning process. Incorporating retrieval practice can involve tools like flashcards or practice tests. For example, when using flashcards, writing the answer before flipping the card encourages deeper engagement and prevents surface-level recognition. Another effective strategy is creating customised questions, mimicking the process of preparing a test, which reinforces understanding and identifies areas needing improvement. This technique becomes even more effective in group study sessions. Exchanging questions with peers fosters collaboration while enhancing recall. Discussing answers also highlights knowledge gaps, ensuring thorough comprehension. Through consistent application, retrieval practice transforms studying into a dynamic and efficient process.
STUDY TIP 2️⃣ SPACED LEARNING PRACTICE
Spaced learning, also known as distributed practice, involves studying material over intervals rather than cramming in one session. Research consistently demonstrates that revisiting content just before it is forgotten strengthens retention and enhances the brain’s ability to retrieve information later. Implementing spaced learning involves scheduling short, focused study sessions over days or weeks. For example, after learning new material in a lecture, reviewing it the next day, a week later, and again after two weeks ensures consistent reinforcement. This approach creates stronger mental connections and prevents the stress of last-minute cramming. Effective planning is essential for spaced learning. Allocating time for regular review sessions alongside new material ensures consistency throughout the term. By incorporating this method, knowledge is retained more effectively, leading to better preparation and improved performance during exams.
STUDY TIP 3️⃣ DUAL CODING PRACTICE
Dual coding is a learning strategy that involves presenting information through multiple media formats to enhance comprehension. For instance, when studying a topic, you might read about it in a textbook while also using diagrams, charts, or other visuals to reinforce the concept. This technique helps to engage different cognitive processes, making the material easier to understand and remember. To apply dual coding effectively, it’s important not to passively observe visuals but to actively engage with them. Rather than merely recognising an image or diagram, try explaining the concept it represents in your own words. Additionally, creating your own visuals based on the material you’ve read or heard in lectures can further solidify your understanding, allowing you to personalise the content. This process aligns with the idea of summarising and synthesising information. By creating visual representations such as diagrams or mind maps, you not only reinforce the material but also produce a concise reference tool for future revision. This active involvement in the learning process helps create lasting mental links, making the information more accessible when revisited later.
Thanks for the help.
Sama
Nolan Z
CPA - M&A Advisory
10
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Nolan’s Answer
Great question! The tips everyone is giving you will help once you graduate and start your professional career as well. I recommend a clutter-free study spot where you can dive into homework without distractions, helping your mind stay clear. Try doing your homework at the same time each day to get in a good habit and routine. Break your tasks into smaller chunks and treat yourself to short breaks to keep motivation up. Use a planner or a to-do list to keep track of assignments and deadlines, so you stay organized and get a little boost each time you check something off. As hard as it is, try putting your phone away if you have one to prevent the distractions of notifications!
andrea milman
call center
4
Answers
Wilmington, North Carolina
Updated
andrea’s Answer
That's a great question! Homework is a necessary part of school, but can be overwhelming at times, I totally get it. My best suggestion, and what helped me, is to have a dedicated place to do homework - a space that is only used for homework and a time set aside. Remove distractions, especially your phone, in order to really give your homework your total attention. I know it can be most difficult when working on a subject that doesn't hold much interest! For those subjects, I gave myself 15-20 minutes of complete immersion and then a small 5 minute break. I suggest giving yourself mini quizzes, especially for those tough ones, and it can become a fun activity just making up your own questions. It will all be worth it, when you do well in the classes. Good luck!
Loved reading this, thanks!
Sama
Diana V. MS, CRC, LPCC
16
Answers
Updated
Diana V.’s Answer
I have to admit the amount of homework is leaps beyond what I assigned when I was a high school student.
That said, I used to make sure after a 20 minute study session I did jumping jacks. It uses a different part of your brain and gives your thinking mind a rest. Helps you increase endorphins (good vibes) and helps you sit and study for another 30 minute session. It’s also a “coupling” method of putting two “have to do things” together. You will benefit from both!
I was also told by a study skills professor that exercise after studying helps moves information from short term memory into long term memory?!
That said, I used to make sure after a 20 minute study session I did jumping jacks. It uses a different part of your brain and gives your thinking mind a rest. Helps you increase endorphins (good vibes) and helps you sit and study for another 30 minute session. It’s also a “coupling” method of putting two “have to do things” together. You will benefit from both!
I was also told by a study skills professor that exercise after studying helps moves information from short term memory into long term memory?!
Ashlie Standlee
school counseling
2
Answers
Visalia, California
Updated
Ashlie’s Answer
Focusing can be tough, but you can do it! First, ask yourself if this is something you struggle with every day. If it is, consider talking to a doctor to see if you might have ADHD. If it's only sometimes or in certain classes, try these tips:
For classes you don't enjoy, try to finish your work during class time. If that's not possible, tackle that homework first when your mind is fresh. Limit distractions by putting your phone in another room. Set a timer for 20 minutes of work, then take a 5-minute break. Some people find that low music or background noise helps them focus, but avoid watching new TV shows. A familiar show you've seen many times can be a good choice. Also, have a small snack and stay hydrated to keep your energy up. You’ve got this!
For classes you don't enjoy, try to finish your work during class time. If that's not possible, tackle that homework first when your mind is fresh. Limit distractions by putting your phone in another room. Set a timer for 20 minutes of work, then take a 5-minute break. Some people find that low music or background noise helps them focus, but avoid watching new TV shows. A familiar show you've seen many times can be a good choice. Also, have a small snack and stay hydrated to keep your energy up. You’ve got this!
Thanks for the help.
Sama
Melanie Anderson
Associate Director
58
Answers
Elmont, New York
Updated
Melanie’s Answer
Hi Julianna!
Staying focused can be tough when there are distractions. For me, things like hunger, thirst, or feeling tired make it hard to concentrate. If you start off feeling any of these, focusing can be nearly impossible. I suggest having a snack and some water before you begin, and make sure you get a good night's sleep every night. Taking care of your body's needs is the first step to better focus.
Next, try to get rid of physical distractions. This means putting your phone on silent, clearing your desk, finding a quiet spot, turning off music, closing extra tabs on your computer, and gathering all the supplies you need so you don't have to search for them while studying.
Don't be too hard on yourself if you get distracted. It happens to everyone. It's great that you're seeking advice. Try to use these tips to help you stay on track.
You got this!
Staying focused can be tough when there are distractions. For me, things like hunger, thirst, or feeling tired make it hard to concentrate. If you start off feeling any of these, focusing can be nearly impossible. I suggest having a snack and some water before you begin, and make sure you get a good night's sleep every night. Taking care of your body's needs is the first step to better focus.
Next, try to get rid of physical distractions. This means putting your phone on silent, clearing your desk, finding a quiet spot, turning off music, closing extra tabs on your computer, and gathering all the supplies you need so you don't have to search for them while studying.
Don't be too hard on yourself if you get distracted. It happens to everyone. It's great that you're seeking advice. Try to use these tips to help you stay on track.
You got this!
Frida Nieto
Medical Assistant
4
Answers
Fort Worth, Texas
Updated
Frida’s Answer
Hello! Make sure you are in a quiet place, if you have distractions that will make it harder to focus on your tasks. Would recommend you put a 20 minute timer to focus on that work and then give yourself a small break to eat a snack or just do other things and then continue after a small 5-10 break.
Simiyu Marion
Food and beverage
1
Answer
Kisumu, Kisumu County, Kenya
Updated
Simiyu’s Answer
You have a poor study design .
You see, there is always the best time to study a certain subject . Like for instance you can not expect to read a heavy subject afternoon like physics or Maths . In the afternoon you can do soft subjects like short theories,novels etc . The best time to do the heavy subjects is in the early morning hours and long theories in the sun set .
You see, there is always the best time to study a certain subject . Like for instance you can not expect to read a heavy subject afternoon like physics or Maths . In the afternoon you can do soft subjects like short theories,novels etc . The best time to do the heavy subjects is in the early morning hours and long theories in the sun set .
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