Studying can be a challenge, especially when you’re surrounded by distractions and lack motivation. But, with the right approach, you can easily improve your focus and achieve better results. Here are 8 proven strategies for focusing on studying and making the most of your time.

1. Create a study plan: To start, you need a plan for how you want to study. This could be as simple as a list of topics to cover each day or a more detailed schedule that includes specific tasks and deadlines. Having a plan in place helps you stay focused and organized.

2. Remove distractions: Distractions can be one of the biggest obstacles to staying focused while studying. So, make sure to eliminate as many distractions as possible. Turn off your phone, log out of social media, and find a quiet, comfortable place to study.

3. Take breaks: While it’s important to stay focused, it’s also important to take breaks. Regular breaks can help you stay refreshed and energized, which in turn can help you focus better when you return to studying.

4. Use active learning techniques: Active learning techniques, like summarizing or teaching someone else, can be a great way to stay engaged and focused while studying. These techniques help you internalize the material and make it easier to remember.

5. Find a quiet, comfortable study environment: The environment you study in can have a big impact on your focus and productivity. Find a quiet, comfortable place to study, free from distractions and interruptions.

6. Prioritize and focus on most important tasks first: To make the most of your time, prioritize your tasks and focus on the most important ones first. This will help you make progress and stay motivated.

7. Eliminate procrastination: Procrastination can be a major obstacle to staying focused while studying. To overcome it, set small, achievable goals and break your tasks into manageable chunks. This will make it easier to get started and stay motivated.

8. Use positive self-talk and visualization: Finally, stay motivated by using positive self-talk and visualization. Visualize yourself successfully completing your study goals and give yourself positive affirmations to stay focused and motivated.

Bonus tips from Johnson:

1. Study with like-minded peers who encourage one another and keep each other accountable.

2. Eat healthy and avoid excessive caffeine. That’ll give you more “un-caffeinated energy” so you can focus better and minimize the chances of food coma.

3. Set time blocks. Time blocks allow you to focus on one task at a time and remove distractions.

4. Take naps. During my MBA years at the Cornell Johnson School, I found that if I took a 15-20 min nap when I felt sleepy (which often happened when I started reading), I could focus better after I woke up.

In conclusion, focusing on studying is a challenge, but it’s also an achievable goal. By following these 8+4 proven strategies, you can stay focused, make progress, and achieve your goals. Good luck!