Six tips for getting the most out of a study break

While it may seem like a good idea for your studying teen to adopt a never-say-die attitude while hitting the books, according to one expert, study breaks can be more helpful than harmful. 

Research by Associate Professor of Psychology Alejandro Lleras of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found that "brief diversion from your task can dramatically improve your ability to focus on a task for prolonged periods."

Only, to reap the benefits of a study break, your teen must use this time wisely.

So while it may be true that breaks can boost productivity, using these tips provided by Total Exposure will go a long way to ensure that they get the most out of a study break. 

1. Refill your engine 

Try to see your study break as a window for you to refill on energy, making it easier to remain focused when you get back to your study material.

Use this time to load up on vitamins, as these are essential micronutrients required for maintaining normal body functions.

Eating a healthy snack is also beneficial.  

2. Get moving 

Straight after your energy refill, take a power walk, go outside for a little bit, get away from your studying environment. This will help get the blood flowing.

Any form of exercise during your study break would be beneficial for your body and mind.  

3. Keep things tidy

It can be difficult to focus when there's pieces of paper and things laying around aimlessly.

Though you should never clean as a means of procrastination, it can be relaxing to tidy up during one of your study breaks.

Then, you can return to your studies in a relaxed setting.   

Study break activities to avoid 

To ensure that a study break doesn't end up being an exercise in futility, here are a few tips on what not to do on a study break.  

4. Stay away from junk food and huge meals

Unhealthy food will make you feel sluggish and unable to concentrate when you have to get back to the books.

You may be starving after a few hours of note taking and highlighting but don't be fooled into eating a huge bowl of your favourite pasta dish.  

Stay hydrated but be careful about what you choose. Energy drinks might seem like a good idea, but some studies say that instead of supplying energy, these drinks tend to do the opposite. 

5. Avoid taking naps that last more than 20 minutes

Taking a nap can make you more tired, slow you down or stunt your productivity. If you must take a nap during your study break – a quick catnap (not longer than 20 minutes) is the best way to go. 

6. Don't think about your studies 

It's a break so treat it as such; your mind won't rest or have time to process information if you're still thinking about the last chapter you read.  

Compiled for Parent24 by Lesley-Anne Johannes. 

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