It can be downright difficult to stay focused throughout an entire college semester. Depending on where you are with the progression of your degree, staying focused can be an even bigger challenge as you approach your harder courses in your major.

We understand how challenging college can be, which is why we’re here to provide our 5 top tips for staying focused during the upcoming semester.

1. Forget Multitasking

Everyone can try and multitask to a certain degree, but multitasking with your coursework just isn’t the answer. Our short-term memory can hold only 5 to 9 items at once. If we bombard our minds, that information is as good as gone. So, as far as school and coursework goes, stop trying to shove 100 things in your mind at once. It just isn’t effective.

2. Bulk Study Times

Though procrastinating is never the answer, some people can’t wrap their brains around studying 4 to 5 times per day. Quite simply: it burns them out. In order to avoid procrastination meltdowns, establish one bulk study time once per day to keep your workflow moving.

3. Rewards

In order to stay focused, you’re going to want an incentive. Try and complete your work during the week so you can go to that party on Friday night. Treat it as a reward for your hard work.

4. Study Environment

Where you study is incredibly important for the effectiveness of the information recall after the fact. If you’re “studying” in a dorm room with all of your friends, this isn’t going to help your focus. Instead, remove yourself from the chatter and utilize the quiet library nearby.

5. Breaks

Everyone needs a break! It’s ok to sit back and close the book for the night. Know when to give your mind some rest.

We all need assistance in staying focused, especially at college. Follow these 5 tips for staying ahead of the game for the semester ahead.