Sometimes even the most avid readers find it hard to concentrate, either because they are not in the right mood or because what they are reading is not so compelling. However, to overcome these moments of difficulty, there are various solutions that allow you to improve attention and immerse yourself in the written text.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Stay Focused
Step 1. Turn off all devices
One of the worst factors affecting concentration is the constant temptation to browse and send messages. Phone notifications can distract you from what you're reading, lose track, or even forget the story of the book. Turn off your phone and computer and go to a place where you won't be tempted to use them.
Step 2. Use the headphones to block out noises
We are biologically programmed for loud noises and lights to attract our attention - this is a legacy of the past, when we had to be constantly vigilant against predators. To avoid these distractions, we should try to limit unwanted noises. Earplugs can help, but most people prefer to use headphones.
If you use headphones, it is important that the music you listen to does not distract you. The choice varies from person to person, but often the most suitable songs for this purpose are slow, instrumental and quite repetitive
Step 3. Meditate
Meditation has been shown to stimulate areas of the brain responsible for concentrating the mind. When you meditate, focus on something, preferably your breathing, and try to close yourself off to the rest of the outside world. Do this exercise for a few minutes a day to improve your attention and possibly even a minute before you start reading, so you will be more focused.
Step 4. Sit down
You may lie down when reading, but this position certainly won't help you stay awake. Practice maintaining good posture. Sit with your knees parallel to your hips and resting your feet on the floor.
According to some research, those who study while sitting are able to engage better during exams than those who assume a slouching pose. Good posture can help you focus, but also prevent the pains that arise when hunched over books
Step 5. Get caffeine
Caffeine can help you stay focused on what you are doing, give you a boost of energy, and keep you awake. It also helps relieve concentration problems caused by attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). If you are not used to the effects of caffeine, try green tea so you can consume less. If not, a cup of coffee should help you out.
Caffeine is most effective when taken in moderation. The ideal would be to consume one dose a day whenever you feel the need to focus
Step 6. Consult a psychologist
If you have trouble reading, you may have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. So, go to a counselor and honestly describe all your symptoms. If he thinks it's ADHD, he'll likely prescribe focus-enhancing medications.
Do not try to make a diagnosis before going to the psychologist. The power of suggestion is strong: you could convince yourself that you have the symptoms of ADHD and give the psychologist a distorted view of what is happening to you
Part 2 of 2: Read Carefully
Step 1. Keep in mind why you are reading
By identifying a purpose, you will focus more easily. Find out if there is a particular question you would like to answer. If you are reading a novel, ask yourself what the main theme of the book is. If it is a historical topic, ask yourself how it relates to the present. If you are studying, think about what the teacher will want to know. Try answering these questions as you read.
Step 2. Underline or highlight
Once you have a clear idea of what you are looking for, make a note of how much you find it. Underline or highlight the key parts. In this way they will not escape you, but you will also be led to wonder which are the most important passages in the book.
Make a selection. If you highlight everything, it means that you are not trying to find the key points of the text
Step 3. Make a note
When you come across an important concept, write a short side note. It will force you to reflect on this step and you will have a note for when you review the topic. Usually, in order to rework the text without wasting too much time, it is sufficient to write down a few words.
Step 4. Reword the titles
The titles summarize the topic that will be covered in the text, so keep this in mind. Work them out as questions and try to answer them as you read the chapter.
For example, if the title reads "The Founding Fathers' Attitude Toward Government", ask yourself what this attitude is referring to
Step 5. Stop and think at the end of each chapter
Most people manage to stay focused for about 50 minutes, which means it's important to take some breaks. Therefore, stop at the end of each chapter, because it is usually in these points that the fundamental concepts end. Take a few notes, describing the main ideas and / or events from what you have read and relax for 5-10 minutes.
Do something pleasant during your breaks: you could have a cup of hot chocolate or play an undemanding game. This way you will recharge and end the chapter
Step 6. Use your finger
To keep the sign and not lose focus, while reading, slide your finger along the text. Keep it directly under the words you are reading. Only do this if you get lost easily while reading.
Step 7. Read aloud
If you get distracted easily, try reading aloud. This exercise will force you to process the text, preventing you from losing focus or falling asleep.
