Learning at Lincoln

Phones are one of the biggest distractions when it comes to working, especially during online sessions. Even if you’re disciplined enough not to keep checking notifications, you’re bound to lose focus if your phone is constantly there to distract you.

If you’re not using your phone to study, put it on Airplane mode or turn off notifications. Remember, this is only temporary!

Staying focused is important when studying at home. To ensure your focus is maintained, remove any distractions from your working environment. As well as removing or disabling your phone, try tidying your desk so your workspace is clean and uncluttered – this will help you to stay focused for longer.

It’s a good idea to know what you will be doing before you start because the mind can easily wander. Write out a list of small tasks or goals that you can go through to stay on track. Yes, it sounds simple, but it does work! If you look at what you have to do, organise the deadlines in order and prioritise what comes first.

If you go in without a plan, you will find yourself only getting a book out or typing a few sentences before being distracted by something else. Setting a specific time for when you’re going to work (beginning to end), will help get your mind in the zone.

Whether you’re working on a group project or just helping and supporting each other, working alongside other people can be a really positive experience. However, there are times when you really need to focus on something and it may be best to work alone. If other people are joking around and gossiping and you need to concentrate, then make your excuses and go find somewhere without those distractions.

After you’ve done your initial reading, try explaining the concept you have been studying to a friend or family member who is unfamiliar with your subject, encouraging them to ask questions as you go along.

If you find that you cannot describe or explain in detail your chosen topic, it shows you need to study it further.