Time almost seems to stand still when you are forced to take a boring lesson. Finding ways to keep busy can make time go by faster. Try various methods until you find the perfect technique for you. Some methods have the advantage of helping you with your study and making you more productive.
Steps
Method 1 of 5: Be careful
Step 1. Listen carefully to your teacher
Listening and reflecting on what your teacher is saying is the best way to keep up with the lessons. Active listening means both hearing and reflecting.
Step 2. Take careful notes
If you try to write down everything your teacher says, you will always be busy and will not get bored.
- You may even be able to get better grades if you try to be careful.
- This type of approach has the advantage of helping you when you have to study or help an absent partner.
Step 3. Make drawings while taking notes
Many studies say that those who scribble on notes tend to pay more attention and memorize information better.
- Toggle the drawings on the clipboard.
- Senseless scribbles can be just as effective as drawings that relate to the content of the notes.
Step 4. Interact with the teacher and with your classmates
If you use the environment around you to interact with your classmates and the teacher, time will seem to pass faster.
- Ask pertinent questions. If you raise your hand and ask questions, or if you answer the questions posed by the teacher, you will be able to concentrate better and time will flow faster.
- Present a controversial idea or opinion. If you think the topic of the lesson is boring, try to find a way to introduce a controversy. The following debate could prove interesting.
- Be "the devil's advocate". Even if you agree with someone's opinion, try to argue.
- In this way, the other comrades could also join the discussion to defend their position.
- It can be fun to try to go against an idea that you actually support.
- Discussions and debates often lead to more fun learning, and will make time pass faster.
Step 5. Make listening a game
If the topic of the lesson is boring, try listening for other reasons. Here are some suggestions:
- Pay attention to your teacher's speech (for example, notice her repeating "ahem") and keep track of each time certain words appear.
- Try to create a word cloud manually. Write down the words that are used frequently by the teacher, writing the most used words larger and the rarer ones smaller.
- Try to pay attention only to the nouns or verbs your teacher uses. Imagine what subliminal messages might be hidden in his speech.
Method 2 of 5: Be Productive
Step 1. Do your homework for a subject
If you know you have homework to do for the next lesson in the subject you are taking, carry on. If there are no assignments, do those for another subject.
Don't assume you'll have time to do your homework for the same day. Use the time you have available to do your homework for the next few days
Step 2. Create an elaborate organization system
Try to work out an organization system for yourself. Grab some colored pens and highlighters and write down the various deadlines on your calendar or diary.
Step 3. Write a to-do list
Make a list of all the things you need to do after school. This way you can better organize your time and keep yourself busy while in class.
Step 4. Plan future events
If you have a project or an engagement, like a party, try to plan it all out. Think about the things you need to buy, decoration ideas, and the guest list. Take note of everything that comes to your mind so as not to forget it.
Step 5. Read in class
If you have something to read for another lesson, or if you want to read for pleasure, don't listen to your teacher and do it.
- Hide the book inside the textbook, this is especially practical if it is a very small book.
- Remember to look up every now and then so your teacher thinks you are paying attention to the lesson.
- If the teacher notices this, apologize. In any case, it is better to get caught reading rather than doing less productive things.
Method 3 of 5: Change the Environment
Step 1. Avoid looking at the clock
Staring at the clock to check the time will make it seem like time passes very slowly. Focus your attention on something else.
Step 2. Leave the classroom for a few minutes
If possible, ask permission to go out to the bathroom, five minutes will pass faster!
- Don't stay out of class for too long, or you may not be able to go out.
- When you are out of the classroom, do not do anything that might arouse suspicion.
Step 3. Drink some water
Staying hydrated can help recharge your batteries. Drinking plenty of water can also create a need to go to the bathroom, so you can go out for a few minutes.
Step 4. Move as much as possible
If you have to remain seated at the desk, you can still try to stretch, first lift one leg and then the other, sit cross-legged, etc.
- Even the smallest movements can help you stay awake.
- Doing repetitive movements and focusing on them can help keep you from getting bored.
- Try not to do anything that will distract your teammates.
Step 5. Ask to be able to stand at the back of the room or sit on the counter or floor
A change of position can put you off the boredom and make you more alert. Try asking your teacher if you can have an alternative seat assignment, but make sure you promise you won't disturb the class.
Step 6. Keep warm
Suffering from the cold can cause you to have a slower perception of time. Make sure you always have heavy clothes.
- Classes can be cold in summer too, so always be prepared.
- But remember that being too hot can make you sleepy. Try to find a happy medium.
Step 7. Look out the window
If your class has windows, find something to look outside. Focusing your attention on the outside world will keep you busy, and will make you feel bored.
Method 4 of 5: Create a Distraction
Step 1. Exchange messages with a friend
Write cards and exchange messages with a friend. Ask funny or personal questions, such as "would you rather be attacked by a lion or an alligator, and why?"
- You can also play tic-tac-toe or hangman game. A good idea is to play multiple games at the same time so you don't have to go through too many sheets of paper.
- Be discreet when passing tickets.
- Don't write anything on the cards that you don't want your teacher (and your parents) to read in case you get caught.
Step 2. Play alone
Making a sudoku puzzle or a crossword puzzle can keep you busy during the lesson, and at the same time you won't disturb anyone. Try different games until you find the one you like best. You can buy a game magazine or print one from the internet.
Step 3. Ask if you can listen to music
Listening to music can make lessons more enjoyable and also improve your productivity.
- Promise your teacher that you will not disturb anyone.
- Tell your teacher that listening to music can help you be more productive.
- Make sure the music is upbeat and enjoyable so you can stay awake.
- Don't hum in class.
Step 4. Meditate silently in your place
Meditation can be a relaxing way of keeping busy in silence.
- Inhale and exhale deeply. Focus on deep breaths, but don't make too much noise.
- Sit with your back straight and both feet on the ground.
- Put your hands in a neutral position on your desk.
- Clear your mind and focus on calm and happy thoughts.
- Meditate with your eyes open, but don't focus your gaze on anything specific.
- Practice emptying yourself completely, and then filling yourself with a single idea or emotion.
Method 5 of 5: Manipulate the Apparent Passage of Time
Step 1. Be happy
Studies have linked sadness and boredom with the slower perception of time. Trying to be happy and positive will make it seem like time goes by faster.
Step 2. Do not rest your head on the bench
Being sleepy will make you feel like time never passes. You can try to wake up by always keeping your head up, and staying in a careful position and with both feet on the ground.
Step 3. Take a nap
Taking a nap makes it seem like time passes quickly. It's a risky move because you could be caught and punished, but if you succeed, time will seem to fly by.
Step 4. Try not to get too distracted
Being aware of your surroundings keeps your brain active. Paying attention to ideas and people will make time go by faster, but if you get too distracted, time will go much slower.
