ADHD impacts ability to focus and sustain attention on a task or on relevant information. Distractibility, impulsiveness, inattentiveness and disorganization are common characteristics of individuals with ADHD. Hyperactivity may or may not be present. The following is a summary of some of the most important strategies for students who experience difficulty with attention and concentration.
In the Classroom
- Always attempt to sit near the front of the classroom away from distractions such as windows, doorways, pencil sharpeners or electronic equipment.
- It may be beneficial to use a peer note-taker so that you can concentrate on the instructor.
- Taping lectures may help reinforce new material learned in class (get permission from your instructor and classmates).
- Attend all classes.
When Studying
- Your study area should be as free of distractions and clutter as possible. Have only the material and equipment you are using visible.
- Before you start to study, write down your goal for the study session.
- Always do your most important or difficult studying and homework first.
- Use short study sessions with breaks. Alternate subjects you are studying.
- While studying, set a timer. Have the goal of concentrating until the timer rings.
- Gradually increase the time you are trying to focus by 1 to 2 minute intervals.
- Use study strategies that will keep your mind alert and focused. Don't rely on reading and rereading. Experiment with different study strategies outlined in this site, and decide which ones help you to focus most effectively.
- Reading out loud may help you to focus and may increase comprehension.
- Some students with ADHD find they can focus more effectively when working on a computer.
Organization
- Learn to structure your environment. Organize your study space, classroom materials and locker so that materials are in a consistent, easily accessible spot.
- Post your class schedule in easily visible areas (locker door, front of binder, fridge, etc.)
- Make a daily list of tasks. Prioritize the tasks and start with the most important ones first.
- Use your NAIT Students' Day Planner to write down assignment due dates, exam dates and other appointments, plus reminders several days in advance of due dates.
- Follow a daily routine. Most importantly try to go to bed and get up at approximately the same time each day.
- Learn time management skills.
- Control procrastination.
- Post a semester planner (available in the Student Counselling Centre) in a visible place.
- Enlist a friend, relative, partner or spouse to encourage you to finish tasks, help you to remember commitments, and to provide feedback.
Other
- If you are experiencing stress, frustration or other ADHD-related problems, counselling may be beneficial.
- Individuals diagnosed with ADHD often write exams in a separate room.
- A reduced course load may be beneficial.
- Setting up a self-reward system may help to motivate you.
- Schedule regular physical exercise.
- Maintain a sense of humor.
- Reduce negative self-statements and substitute positive statements such as, "I can do it" or "I can stay focused".
- Learn to control your emotions. Depression, low self-esteem, discouragement and anger can overwhelm students with ADHD. Be prepared with coping strategies to deal with negative emotions.
- Reduce or eliminate alcohol or drug use.
- Participate in rewarding activities that will boost your self-esteem.
- Students with ADHD may benefit from working with an Academic Strategist.
- Avoid fatigue.
- Take advantage of NAIT resources such as Student Counselling.