Another question faced by students especially those doing higher studies is “How many hours should I study at a stretch?” Very often students getting less than average grades feel they should increase the amount of time they study in order to do better.
However scientists have found out that the Law of Diminishing Returns as applied to Learning kicks in here. Increasing the number of hours studied does not produce a proportionate increase in the amount of learning. Instead it has been found that students doing short periods of intense study followed by a short break do better at learning.
One method that uses this is the famous Pomodoro Technique which was developed by Francesco Cirillo during the 1980s. Although Pomodoro in Italian means “Tomato”, this technique has nothing to do with tomatoes but more to do with the tomato-shaped kitchen timer that Francesco Cirillo used when he was a student.
The Pomodoro Technique consists of breaking up your tasks into 25 minutes intervals. Each 25 minutes of focused study should be followed by a 5 minute break. Another period of intense study can then be started. After 4 periods of such intense study followed by short breaks, it is time for a longer break of 20 to 30 minutes.
In order to successfully use the Pomodoro Technique, a few things need to be kept in mind.
• While 25 minute study periods worked very well for Cirillo, studies on our daily biological cycles which are also called ultradian rhythms, showed that most people can stay focused for about 90 – 120 minutes. Dr. Elin Ekblom-Bak the renowned Swedish sports scientist however recommends that we should take breaks every 45 minutes. Work out a time period that is suitable for you.
• Whatever time period you may choose for your focused study, you should ensure that there are no distractions during this period. Turn off the phone, Television, Music, Chat, Email and shut the door of your room so that no one will disturb you.
• When your time period is completed take a break even if you are in the flow of things and even if the task is not completed. This may seem to be a waste of time but over a long period it helps in maintaining higher energy levels.
• Don’t use Social Networking during your breaks. Instead move away from your desk, take a walk, have a cup of coffee or just meditate.
• You may sometimes feel tired even before your focused study period is completed. In such a situation it is okay to take a break. This will help in getting your concentration levels up again.
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