Ideas For Improving Concentration And Focus

Question

When taking GMAT, concentration is important. So I'm just bringing up this topic to hear your suggestions.

sm176811 · Answer

A shrink might be helpful.. Just kidding...! 

Take some coffee, that helps increase your concentration. I heard that chewing gums also help, though I am not sure.
John

buckkitty · Answer

I take Gingko biloba. The verdict is still out on whether it has any real noticable benefits but I think it does. I did some research on it before taking it and it seems harmless and has been found helpful in memory retention. It takes a month or so for it to take effect.

sm176811 · Answer

Does that really work? Its not verified by the FDA though!

sm176811 · Answer

Maybe its the placebo effect that you are observing!

artshep · Answer

This is actually a great question. The GMAT, especially the verbal section, is a test of endurance and focus as much as anything else.

I tried doing lots of RC and SC questions later at night, when focus is very tough and the mind is tired. I felt like this increased my tolerance and endurance, and prepared me for those last 30 minutes of the GMAT when the mental fatigue really starts to set in.

Also, when doing practice tests, it's fine to skip the AWAs on some of them, but it's also great practice to include the AWAs on some so that you get a real feel for how tired you will be when the real thing comes along.

herbgatherer · Answer

Gingko Biloba is also used to alleviate altitude sickness

herbgatherer · Answer

Ok, well, the first of my solutions may not be as relevant when the question was posed, as it is now!

1. We live in an age of distraction, of being connected all the time. Mails, notifications, alerts - there is an overload of information and the brain is always "busy" focused on something or the other. To defragment my mind, I have removed all social media apps from my phone. I know this will help, as I had experimented with turning off my phone for a couple of weeks . I saw a marked improvement in my focus, as the mind wasn't jumping all over the place.

2. A good diet. The body is a machine. The brain consumes a large chunk of energy, compared to it's mass. It is very important to eat healthy foods - lots of greens, nuts, fish, and to stay hydrated.

3. Exercise. It has been proven that physical activity helps retain new information. Go on small jogs regularly!

4. Rest. Don't push yourself to the limit daily.

5. Simulate the GMAT. All prep tests have to be taken in their entirety. This will train the brain. If I want to run 10k, I should practice running 12 to 14k, so that on race day, 10k will be a breeze

VeritasPrepEdison · Answer

Agree with this, lessen mindless internet surfing, while keeping most of your normal activities. This would lessen eye strain and save you valuable time.

aymeric · Answer

First you need to identify if it is something that is bothering you (mental) or is it just how your body is reacting (physical) 
Mindfulness is one thing YOU HAVE TO TRY

Other than that I actually wrote a blog post on the topic a while back.

Some ideas by me how to do that: 
Note it down -check your planner in specific intervals or after each task that you complete. Having a fixed plan will really save your time.

Tuning out environmental distractions: Use a white noise machine or instrumental music to will help you focus. Using headphones or being ‘wired in’ goes a long way in being productive.

Make time for exercise and meditation It is scientifically proven that working out and staying active can increase your productivity and concentration by 23%. Regular exercise keeps mental stresses at bay and is a clear prevention against depression, anxiety and lethargy. It increases overall blood flow to the brain and will make your more active and alert.

Prioritise your tasks: Finish the important and dynamic tasks first. You will give your best to what’s important and by the time you’re done with them, you can just go ahead and finish the smaller tasks with a free mind. 
Think is oughta help.

milijacob · Answer

Thanks for sharing

Ideas For Improving Concentration And Focus

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