In order to improve your time management skills and be effective at studying, start identifying distractions and get rid of them. These distractions could be external or internal. External distractions could be anything around you that affects your capability of focusing on NEET preparation, perhaps your location of studying, friends, social media etc. Internal distractions challenge your ability to bring under control the thoughts that distract you from within and thereby motivate you to push yourself.
For the uninitiated, NEET is a medical entrance test carried out across the country for young medical enthusiasts aspiring to pursue a career in the field of medical science. It is one of the most challenging examinations to seek admissions to undergraduate courses in the country. To get an essence of its difficulty level, you can refer to the NEET previous year papers and try solving some questions.
A major aspect contributing to sound preparation comes from effectively managing the many distractions stemming from different sources. At times, we give in to them; at times, we remind ourselves of our ultimate goal due to our excellent willpower and step back from giving in to it. Listed below are some distractions and ways in which you can reduce them. Read on.
How to Manage Distractions While NEET Preparation?
Distraction Management #1 – Gadgets
Most students in today’s age are perhaps on their phones/tabs/laptops. It seems a challenge at times to manage these distractions. You can try these ideas:
- Set a timer/alarm as to when you would check your phone
- Restrict the time you spend on social media or particular websites
- Turn off notifications, set up priority notifications
- Make use of sticky notes on your gadgets which would remind you to get back to studying
Distraction Management #2 – A study corner
Often we underestimate this point, but it is vital to have a study corner of your own and stick to it all through your preparatory phase. While selecting a corner, ensure there are as few distractions/noise as possible and where you feel the most productive. In case you do not have any such corner, consider organising your existing place, arrange your NEET books neatly on your desk, and set up a pinboard to track important events and notes. You can study at a desk with a comfortable chair providing good ventilation.
Distraction Management #3 – Handling People around
At times during NEET preparation, it often happens that attending an event or saying no to a get together could be a tougher call. Keep your family and friends informed about your study engagements throughout the day, in addition to letting them know your leisure time so that they can reach you then. You can seek their help in meeting your study goals, and this way, you are keeping them in a loop. Manage time by setting slots to check on your notifications or people around in a timely manner.
Also Read: How to Prepare for NEET Mentally?
It is okay to attend a get together occasionally if important for some time while not compromising on the task for the day. This is why it is always suggested to have a flexible schedule to be able to accommodate events unforeseen.
Distraction Management #4 – Balancing Physical and mental well-being
Consistent unhealthy eating habits, erratic sleep cycles, sedentary lifestyles may not reflect well on your preparation and final examination day. These are potential reasons for the lack of proper concentration despite all the efforts. Find what works best for you and take baby steps in the right direction.Prioritise health over everything else, as what you feed to your mind and body are vital, be it food or thoughts. This was brief on how you can manage distractions and reduce them while preparing for NEET. For related content, subscribe to BYJU’S YouTube Channel.