Post: #1

I try to study programming but can't concetrate at all. Some days I can but no more that 30 minutes. Tried coffee and it helped a little bit but same result in the long term. Any advice?

Post: #2

1. Read a page or a paragraph.

2. Memorize it.

3. Close the book.

4. Lecture to a wall about what you just read.

Try this for an entire chapter or two - see if it works.

Post: #3

I find that an exercise routine, a clean workspace, and in between breaks is most effective for trying to wrap my head around something. A lack of exercise routine will lead to excess energy that is uncontrollable. An unclean workspace will lead to distractions. An in between break lets the mind rest.

Post: #4

Honestly, when I'm passionate about something you can't pull me away from it.

Are you actually interested in the subject matter or are you doing it so you can "make tons of cash"?

Post: #5

Pomodoro Technique. Turn off all distractions for 30-45 mins and focus on one thing. Your ability to focus will grow stronger with practice.

Post: #6

Meditate The positive effects of meditation are an increased activity in the frontal lobe, the brain area responsible for intent, goal-setting, adaptation; in combination with a decreased nervousness and heart-rate.

Take a candle and sit down in front of it. Switch off the light and look right in the dark spot of middle of the flame. Do not move and forget what is around you. The ideal is to breathe, nothing else.

During the first trials, a whole load of voices will come up in your head. Ignore it. It will take three or four days of at least half an hour training each day for these problems to subside. At least continue to a level where you realize that your head is calmer. Then, your overall concentration level will be higher.

Post: #7

(08-10-2015 02:09 PM)el conquistador Wrote:  Pomodoro Technique. Turn off all distractions for 30-45 mins and focus on one thing. Your ability to focus will grow stronger with practice.

This method has been a huge success in helping me focus my attention.
Check out this thread.

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Post: #8

I have tried many things to help with my concentration. At the end of the day I had to resort to medicine, usually your doctor will get a psychological analysis on you and from there they can determine if there is anything that can help you. As a side note (Dexedrine) the medication I take, I only use it when I need my complete focus for extended periods of time. The major risk with taking medication is sometimes you can create a mental dependency on it, so it's not a straight fix.

If you use a combination of tactics to help with your focus I suggest that's the best fix. Make sure you have had a good sleep. I can't stress how important a good rest is. Also just because you slept for 6-8 hours does not necessarily mean you are well rested. Sleep Apnea is a serious condition and make sure you do not have it. How do you usually feel after 6-8 hours of sleep? Do you feel extremly groggy for an extended period of time? or are you mentally alert after being up for a few minutes? Do you take short naps through out the day?

Usually a long walk or jog helps and refreshes me or a shower. Since the smallest thing can break my distraction, I turn my phone on silent mode and leave it in a different room. Deep breathing exercises helped me out a considerable amount, they are able to relax you mentally and calm any anxiety you may have. Also your diet will play a big part in how well you can focus, if you slam a bunch of greasy burgers down good luck with anything.

In quick summary, make sure you try everything before you have to resort to medication. The list is endless on things you can try to help yourself, the key is try to use a bunch of tactics together for the ultimate result.

Post: #9

I also agree with the Pomodorro Technique. It works great.

(08-10-2015 12:12 PM)The Beast1 Wrote:  Honestly, when I'm passionate about something you can't pull me away from it.

Are you actually interested in the subject matter or are you doing it so you can "make tons of cash"?

That's all well and good to be passionate about a given subject, but most 18-21 year olds don't have natural passions for marketable skills.

Half of all college graduates are currently employed in jobs that don't require a degree. 44% are underemployed (somehow this number is less). Fully one quarter of all students loans are currently in default status. Most 18 year olds don't know what they're passionate about yet, so they might as well get into a general field that actually has a future ahead of it.

Yeah, programming can be boring and tedious if you don't like problem solving or spending hours picking apart lines of code. It's a damn sight better to get a C+ in a programming class than it is to ace any of the "more interesting" humanities and then attempt to pay off your loans with a 35k a year teaching job, if you can even get your hands on one.

Post: #10

Search the Pomodoro Technique using the forums's "search" function.

There is a helpful, detailed data sheet contained there-in that seems relevant to your inquiry.

I would also politely refer you to a recap of forum posting tips for "newbies".. One of the moderators had comments about starting new threads that have been covered before. I say this not in a dickish way, but in the spirit of trying to show you the ropes.