
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:
Set a timer for 25 minutes
If any distractions pop up, write them down on a piece of paper and return your focus to your task.
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.
Take a 5-minute break (suggestions below!)
Return to your work, and after 4 Pomodoros, take a 30 min break.
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
コメント