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STUDY BREAKS and their importance during exam season

Writer's picture: Alex ZhouAlex Zhou

Updated: Nov 21, 2021



A common misconception about exam season is the need for endless content cramming with no breaks in between. More often than not, it leads to burnout, reducing productivity levels - which is the last thing you want happening in the weeks leading up to your exam.

Multiple studies have proved that something as simple as taking a break can improve your ability to analyse and solve a problem while preventing burnout.

According to CornellHealth (Cornell University), purposeful breaks (5-60 minutes) refreshes your brain and body, increasing your energy, productivity, and ability to focus.

And if you’re still not convinced, in a study conducted by the University of Illinois, four groups of people worked on a brain intensive task for 50 minutes. In the end, the group that took more breaks had the highest mental stamina.

How long should you work before taking a break?

Surprisingly, the attention span of an average person is short. The optimum time increments between each break will vary for different individuals.

In an article from Harvard Business Review, a concept called our “ultradian rhythm” is brought to life. This is where our bodies move from a higher to lower alertness every 90 minutes and send us signals when we need a break. These signals include, but are not limited to, hunger and loss of focus. When ignored, artificial ways are then used to pump our energy - the most common example being caffeine. This and multiple other sources have argued that study breaks every 90 minutes are ideal.

You can read more about the recommended 90-minute model here: https://hbr.org/2010/05/for-real-productivity-less-is

Another method, called The Pomodoro Technique, is broken down into the following 6-steps:

  1. Set a timer for 25 minutes

  2. If any distractions pop up, write them down on a piece of paper and return your focus to your task.

  3. When the buzzer signals the end of the 25 mins, put a checkmark on your paper - one Pomodoro (1-time increment) has now been completed.

  4. Take a 5-minute break (suggestions below!)

  5. Return to your work, and after 4 Pomodoros, take a 30 min break.

  6. Repeat :)

As you can see, there are multiple different recommendations regarding study breaks - the best thing to do is to take some time to find your rhythm!


A purposeful break should include

  • Anything but work

  • Staying away from your screen - yes, this includes social media.

  • Being active and getting your blood circulating

  • Something that breaks your concentration and takes your attention away from your work

Ideas for taking purposeful breaks

  • Going outside for a walk

  • Cooking and eating some healthy food

  • Stretching

  • Drawing, doodling, journaling - anything that allows you to express your creativity

  • Taking a shower

  • A 15-20 minute power nap

  • Something you love - i.e. spending time with your family/pets

  • Something you enjoy doing

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