Starting to read while preparing for exams with a difficult attention span is possible, even if just ever so slightly. The most important thing is not to strive for perfection, but to develop a habit of steady progress over time.
To do this, you can either read 5 to 10 pages per day or set a timer for 10 minutes. The keys are to pair this relatively small amount of reading per day (5 to 10 pages or 10 minutes) with a routine and/or daily habit that you already have established (e.g., breakfast or taking a break from studying).
When your thoughts drift away from the material you are reading, bring your reflection back to the page gently. Once your short reading sessions become easy to complete, you will be ready to begin increasing your reading sessions. Overall, if you read some quantity each and every day, by the end of the month you will have amassed quite a substantial amount of reading. Consequently, by writing the process down, making it as simple, low-pressure, and easy as humanly possible, you are giving your mind a chance to eventually succeed in reading.
Start with Micro-Sessions
Commit yourself to a short amount of reading time each and every day to help establish a daily habit. Set a timer before beginning your reading session so that you will know when your time limit is reached, and this task will appear to be very simple.
As your concentration increases, you may extend your reading sessions from five minutes to ten minutes, then gradually to fifteen minutes. As an additional tip from experts: connecting your new reading routine with a current daily event, such as getting out of bed or preparing for bed, will create a stronger neural pathway in your brain for developing this new behavior.
To keep it enjoyable in the beginning, select fast and easy-to-read types of literature (such as short stories, history comics, etc.). Additionally, to celebrate your accomplishments, make sure you record your progress every day in an easy-to-use journal. Over time, the small segments of time you spend reading on a daily basis will convert into a habit for the rest of your life!
Use the Pomodoro Technique
Using the Pomodoro method will help you improve your concentration and ability to work for longer periods of time without being exhausted by constantly learning new material.
With the Pomodoro method, you will study for 25 minutes, and then take a 5-minute break. You have the option of reducing the timeframe to 15 minutes if that is more suitable for you. You must remember that it is very important to turn off all your cell phone sounds while using this technique. You should also be sure to stretch for a few seconds whenever you take a short break in order to stay energized.
When you complete four Pomodoro sessions, you can then take 30 minutes to review what you have learned. It is very simple to keep track of your progress when you utilize a timer on your cell phone. The Pomodoro method develops endurance and concentration much better than reading for numerous hours in a row.
Create a Distraction-Free Environment
Creating a comfortable place to read in your home can be a game changer when it comes to developing a reading habit. Ideally, set up your reading spot in a quiet area (preferably near a window) that is very inviting (with soft lighting and comfortable seating).
The most important aspect of establishing a reading space is not to have a phone or other digital distractions close by. When you do not see your phone, you are training your brain that it is time to devote itself completely to your book. If you wish, you can also add sounds to your reading space that are gentle and capable of drowning out the verbal sounds of your family members (for example, you can play soft instrumental music or white noise).
In order to begin reading, take a few deep breaths to relax and clear your head. By reading in the same special spot at the same time each day, even just a ten-minute reading session can become enjoyable and very focused.
Select Engaging, Varied Materials
To develop a reading habit, it is recommended by experts that you begin by starting small. Choose appealing books (e.g., graphic novels, short stories) for the purpose of keeping your interest motivated. Choose books that are fun to read (e.g., Roman history) and choose books that have vivid visual images (e.g., Indian tribes).
Stay away from heavy books in the beginning. You could do this by selecting graphic novels or audiobooks to maintain a high level of interest in your reading endeavors. Additionally, changing up the genre that you read will help you maintain interest in your books. For example, attempting to read three to five books per month will keep you interested and help you develop your reading habit.
While you read, find either a highlighter or your finger to keep your eyes focused on where you are on the page. You should also reread your favorite books and keep track of your thoughts on these books within a journal. For your JEE studies, begin with a summary of the chapter that you will be reading before you read the entire chapter. The focus should be to enjoy the process of reading rather than to force yourself to read on a daily basis.
Track Progress
Keep a record of the pages you read daily, along with how you feel about them and your progress. You should set achievable goals, such as reading between six and eight pages each day; then treat yourself to something that you want when you finish.
Tell someone about your accomplishments so that you continue being excited about studying. Review how well you have been doing each week to see if your concentration is better in the mornings. After reading, move your body to help retain the new information; running or doing aerobic exercise could work.
You can use apps that track how much you have read, turning studying into a fun activity. Celebrate when you finish an entire book, and after a period of time, your extended periods of time will increase your ability to concentrate without tiring you out.
