As the finals season approaches, many students believe that the key to success in exams is to study continuously for hours without taking breaks. The truth is, studying non-stop might not be the best strategy. Studying for long hours can be overwhelming, leaving your brain fatigued and your focus diminished over time. However, introducing regular study breaks can help you maintain productivity, improve memory retention, and keep you motivated to study for longer periods of time. According to Cognitive Psychology research by Nielsen & Thomsen (2015), our attention span tends to decline after 25-30 minutes of continuous study, supporting the need for regular breaks to maintain cognitive performance. Taking short, intentional breaks gives your brain a chance to recharge, which can improve memory retention, reduce mental fatigue, and even boost your overall productivity.
WHY IS TAKING BREAKS IMPORTANT?
1. It helps to boost concentration and focus
Research has shown our brain has limited capacity for sustained focus. After about 30 minutes of intense concentration, your attention span starts to wane. Taking short breaks helps refresh your mind, allowing you to return to your studies with renewed energy and focus.
2. Improves Memory Retention
When you study without breaks, your brain struggles to process and retain information. Breaks give our brains the opportunity to process and consolidate new information, making it easier to recall later on.
3. Reduces Stress and Prevents Burnout
Continuous studying can lead to stress and exhaustion, affecting your overall well-being. Breaks give you time to relax, reducing anxiety and preventing burnout, especially during exam preparation.
4. Enhances Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills
Stepping away from a challenging topic can give your brain the chance to subconsciously process the information. Often, fresh insights and creative solutions emerge when you return to your study after a break.
How Long of a Break Should You Take When Studying?
One break technique I often use when studying is the Pomodoro Technique. It’s a simple but effective method that helps me stay productive and focused. I work for 25 minutes, fully focused only on my study, and then take a 5-minute break to recharge. After completing four of these cycles, I treat myself to a longer break of 15-30 minutes.
Along with taking breaks, I also find that changing my study environment can help me stay more focused. Sometimes, staying in the same location for too long can cause distractions and restlessness, so I switch things up to stay focused. On campus, I switch between the study rooms in the Library, the quiet environment in the Music Library, and the study rooms in Clark Hall which gives a more relaxed vibe. Occasionally, I take walks with my pals to get a snack or just to have a talk to help clear my mind.
Your body often signals when it’s time for a break, too. If you notice your mind wandering, you find yourself rereading the same line without really absorbing the information, or you start to feel physically drained, it’s a good idea to take a short break. These signs are your body’s way of telling you that it’s time for a break, and listening to them can make a big difference in how effectively you study.
What to Do During Study Breaks?
1. Stretch or Exercise
Physical movement like taking short walks during breaks helps improve blood circulation, reduces tension, and keeps you energized for your next study session.
2. Hydrate and Snack Wisely
Drink water and opt for healthy snacks like nuts, fruits, or yogurt. Avoid heavy meals or sugary snacks that might make you feel inactive.
3. Meditate or Practice Deep Breathing
Calming your mind with mindfulness exercises can reduce stress and improve focus when you return to studying.
4. Avoid Screen Time
Resist the urge to scroll through social media during breaks. It can drain your energy and make it harder to refocus.
Incorporating study breaks into your routine is not a sign of laziness—it’s a smart strategy for boosting efficiency, maintaining focus, and improving learning outcomes. By balancing study time with well-planned breaks, you set yourself up for academic success and a healthier mindset.