Study techniques

None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.

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If you only read a few

Use 5-minute breaks to turn off your brain by going to the bathroom, stretching, staring at a wall, or meditating, while resisting the urge to check your phone.
Resisting the urge to check your phone consistently builds momentum.
one person who lived it
- Refrain from engaging with distracting media like phones, TV, or the web during brief rest periods.3
Avoid reading books during short breaks if it distracts you from returning to work.
Reading can mess up your mind, making you think only about the book and unable to concentrate on work.
one person who lived it
Look at the horizon or expand your vision during breaks to destress your brain.
It destresses the brain.
one person who lived it
Drink a cup of coffee or tea, then take a 20-minute nap to energize yourself more than either activity alone.
Scientific studies indicate the combination is more energizing than either component by itself.
one person who lived it

When frustrated with errors, say 'to hell with it' and walk away for 5 minutes before revisiting the task.
This approach works wonders for resolving frustration.
one person who lived it
Take fuller, deeper, and more restorative breaks to regain motivation, even if you are behind on tasks.
Renewal is essential to regain your motivation.
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Recognize that browsing social media can lead to indefinite procrastination because it feels easier to stop than watching TV.
TV feels active due to time commitment, while browsing feels like you can stop any time, leading to indefinite use.
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Avoid mindless digital consumption during downtime; instead sit still, stare at a wall, sit outside, or do physical tasks like laundry or dishes.
Mindless digital use is not restorative; sitting still or doing simple physical tasks is more restoring and prevents feeling sluggish.
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Take an actual break instead of listening to educational videos in the background.
Listening to educational content while trying to rest can burn out your brain.
one person who lived it