How to Focus in High School: 7 Science-Backed Ways to Beat Distraction and Boost Productivity

It’s no secret that modern online high school students have a lot of distractions to contend with. Between social media, smartphones, and a never-ending stream of entertainment options, it can be tough to focus in school.

But according to recent scientific research, there are five things you can do to boost productivity and focus in an online classroom.

Read on for science-backed tips on how to beat distraction and stay focused!

1. Stay organized

One of the best ways to stay focused in school is to keep your work area and materials organized. When your space is cluttered and disorganized, it can be harder to focus on your tasks. But when everything is in its place, you can feel more relaxed and ready to work.

Here are a few tips for staying organized:

• Invest in a planner or notebook to write down assignmentsand due dates. This will help you keep track of what needs to be done and when.
• Designate a specific place for all your school supplies, such as pens, pencils, paper, etc. Having a designated spot will help you know where everything is, so you don’t have to waste time searching for it.
• Create a system for keeping track of your tasks. This could be a to-do list, a calendar, or a planner.
• Set up a file system for your papers and digital files. This will help you find what you need quickly and avoid wasting time looking for things.
• Make sure you have all the supplies and materials you need before you start working. This includes things like pens, paper, and your laptop charger.
• Clean up your work area regularly. Get rid of any trash or clutter that has accumulated. A clean space will help you feel more focused and ready to work.
• Take advantage of technology. There are many helpful apps and websites that can help you stay organized, such as Evernote, Wunderlist, and Trello.
• Set up a study schedule and stick to it. Setting times for studying will help you stay on track and make efficient use of your time.

2. Take breaks

It may seem counterintuitive, but taking breaks can actually help you focus in an online school. When you’ve been staring at a screen or working on a task for too long, it’s easy to start feeling overwhelmed or burned out. But by taking short breaks, you can reset your mind and come back feeling refreshed and ready to work.

Here are a few tips for taking breaks:

• Get up and move around every 20-30 minutes. Taking a quick walk or stretch will help you feel more alert and focused when you sit back to work.
• Take a break after completing a task. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and stressed.
• Use a timer to keep track of your break time. This will help you stay on track and not let your break turn into a procrastination session.
• Find an activity that relaxes you and use it as a break from studying. This could be listening to music, reading for pleasure, or spending time outside.
• Make sure your break is actually a break. Avoid checking your email, social media, or other distractions during this time.

3. Get enough sleep

It’s no secret that getting enough sleep is important for overall health and well-being. But did you know that sleep also plays a vital role in focus and concentration? When you’re tired, it’s harder to pay attention and retain information. That’s why it’s so important to get enough rest!

There are a few things you can do to make sure you’re getting enough sleep:

• Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. This will help regulate your body’s natural sleep rhythm.
• Create a bedtime routine and stick to it. This can include turning off electronics, reading a book, or taking a bath.
• Avoid caffeine before bed. Caffeine can interfere with sleep and make it harder to fall asleep.
• Get some exercise during the day. Exercise can help you sleep better at night.
• Create a relaxing environment in your bedroom. This could include dimming the lights, using a noise machine, or diffusing essential oils.
• Practice some relaxation techniques before bed. This could include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided meditation.
• If you’re having trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor. They may be able to recommend some helpful treatments.

4. Eat healthy foods

What you eat can also affect your ability to focus in school. When you’re hungry, it’s harder to concentrate on your work. That’s why it’s important to eat healthy meals and snacks throughout the day. In addition, eating unhealthy foods can make you feel sluggish and tired.

Here are a few ideas for healthy snacks that will help you stay focused:

• Start the day with a nutritious breakfast. This will give you the energy you need to start your day.
• Pack your own lunch and snacks from home. This way, you’ll know exactly what you’re eating, and you can avoid unhealthy temptations.
• Make sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet. They’re packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health.
• Limit your intake of sugary and fatty foods. These can make you feel sluggish and can interfere with concentration.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can cause fatigue and make it harder to focus.
• If you’re struggling to eat healthy, talk to a registered dietitian. They can help you develop a healthy eating plan that fits your needs.

5. Reduce distractions

Distractions can make it very hard to focus on your tasks. When you’re trying to study, but your mind keeps wandering, it’s easy to become frustrated and give up. That’s why it’s crucial to create a distraction-free environment when trying to focus.

Here are a few ideas for reducing distractions:

• Put away all electronics, such as your phone, tablet, and laptop.
• Find a quiet place to work where you won’t be interrupted by others.
• Work during times of day when you’re less likely to be distracted, such as early in the morning or late at night.
• Set a timer for yourself and take breaks after you finish each task.
• Focus on one task at a time and give it your full attention.
• Keep a notepad nearby so you can jot down any thoughts or ideas that pop into your head. This will help you keep your mind focused on the task at hand.

6. Set goals

Another Science-backed way to beat distraction and boost productivity in online learning is to set goals. Having specific goals can help you stay on track and motivated. When you have a goal in mind, it’s easier to stay focused on your work and avoid getting sidetracked.

Here are a few tips for setting goals:

• Be specific about what you want to accomplish. For example, rather than saying you want to get better grades, set a goal of earning a certain grade in a class or improving your GPA by a certain amount.
• Make sure your goals are realistic. Avoid setting goals that are too difficult or impossible to achieve.
• Write down your goals and refer to them often. This will help you keep them top of mind and remind you of what you’re working towards.
• Share your goals with others. Telling others about your goals can help you stay accountable and on track.
• Make sure your goals are measurable so you can track your progress.
• Create a timeline for your goals and break them down into smaller steps.

7. Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and paying attention to your thoughts and feelings without judgment. It can be a helpful tool for managing stress and staying focused on your studies.

By taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath and be aware of your thoughts, you can help yourself feel more calm and ready to work.

Here are a few tips for practicing mindfulness:

• Start by finding a comfortable place to sit or lie down. Then, close your eyes and focus on your breath.
• Notice the way your breath feels as you inhale and exhale. Try to breathe slowly and evenly.
• If your mind starts to wander, that’s okay! Just gently bring your attention back to your breath.
• Continue focusing on your breath for 5-10 minutes. Then, open your eyes and take a few deep breaths.

Final Thoughts

If you’re like most high school students, focus and productivity can be a challenge. Between social media, texting, and other distractions, it’s hard to get anything done. But don’t worry – there are ways to overcome these challenges.

The science-backed methods outlined in this blog post should help you improve your focus and boost your productivity in high school. And if you need extra support, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at High School of America.

We’re here to help you succeed academically and prepare for college and beyond.

Contact us today to learn more about our online high school program!