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How To Study with ADHD

Updated: Aug 27

studying for students with ADHD

As expert tutors, we understand the unique challenges that students with ADHD face in their academic journeys, as we've tutored with many students who struggle with it. ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, can make it difficult for students to focus, stay organized, and complete tasks, which can lead to frustration and anxiety. However, with the right study strategies, students with ADHD can learn to manage these challenges and excel in their studies. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most effective study strategies that can help students with ADHD stay on track, whether they’re in elementary school or college.



Break Down Subjects & Study With Routine


One of the most effective strategies for students with ADHD is breaking down large assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks. ADHD can make it overwhelming to tackle big projects all at once. The key to overcoming this is to take it step by step. For example, if you have a research paper to write, rather than focusing on the entire project, start by breaking it down into parts: brainstorming ideas, conducting research, drafting an outline, writing each section, and finally revising. This approach allows you to focus on one task at a time, reducing the sense of being overwhelmed and making it easier to stay on track.


Establishing a consistent routine is another strategy that can make a significant difference. Time management is often a challenge for students with ADHD, and without a structured schedule, it’s easy to fall into the trap of procrastination. By setting up a regular study routine that includes specific times for studying and regular breaks, you can create a sense of structure that helps you manage your time more effectively. Over time, this routine can become a habit, making it easier to focus and complete your work on time.


Another important strategy is learning to prioritize tasks. ADHD can make it difficult to decide which tasks are most important, leading to a feeling of being overwhelmed by everything that needs to be done. By prioritizing your assignments based on their deadlines and importance, you can create a clear plan of action. Start with the most urgent tasks and work your way down the list. This not only helps you stay organized but also reduces anxiety by giving you a clear sense of what needs to be done and when.


The Study Environment in Elementary Thru College


The environment in which you study also plays a crucial role in managing ADHD. Finding a quiet, distraction-free space to study can help you stay focused. This might mean turning off your phone, studying in a quiet room, or using noise-canceling headphones. Additionally, using tools like visual aids can be particularly helpful for students with ADHD, as they can make abstract concepts more concrete and easier to understand. Diagrams, charts, and color-coding are great ways to organize information visually and can make studying more engaging.


For younger students in elementary school, hands-on and interactive learning methods can be particularly effective. Engaging in activities that involve movement or creativity can help keep your mind focused. For example, using flashcards, playing educational games, or drawing diagrams can make learning more enjoyable and help you retain information better. These methods are not only fun but also cater to the way your brain processes information, making it easier to absorb and remember what you’ve learned.


As you progress through your education and enter college, the academic demands increase, and so does the need for effective study strategies. College students with ADHD often face a heavier workload and the challenge of managing multiple assignments and exams at once. At this stage, it’s important to use digital tools that can help you stay organized. Calendars, to-do lists, and reminder apps can be lifesavers for keeping track of deadlines and assignments. These tools allow you to visually map out your tasks and plan your study time effectively, reducing the likelihood of missing important deadlines.



Students in school studying with tutors

Study Skills & Resources for Success


In addition to using digital tools, it’s essential to develop strong note-taking skills. Taking notes in a way that works for you can make a big difference in how well you understand and remember the material. Some students with ADHD find that traditional linear notes don’t work well for them. Instead, try using mind maps or bullet points to organize information in a way that makes sense to you. Highlighting key points or using different colors for different concepts can also help you keep track of important information.


It’s also important to recognize the value of taking regular breaks. ADHD can make it difficult to focus for long periods, so it’s essential to give your brain time to rest. The Pomodoro Technique, which involves studying for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break, can be an effective way to maintain focus without burning out. During your breaks, try to do something that relaxes you, like stretching, walking around, or listening to music. These short breaks can help you recharge and return to your studies with renewed energy.


Review, Review, Review!


One final strategy that can be particularly helpful for students with ADHD is reviewing past tests and assignments. By looking back at your previous work, you can identify patterns in the types of mistakes you make and areas where you need improvement. This can help you focus your study efforts more effectively and avoid repeating the same errors in the future. Additionally, reviewing past work can reinforce your understanding of the material and boost your confidence in your abilities.


In conclusion, ADHD presents unique challenges, but with the right study strategies, you can manage these challenges and succeed academically. Whether you’re breaking down assignments into smaller tasks, establishing a consistent study routine, creating a distraction-free environment, or using digital tools to stay organized, these strategies can make a significant difference in your academic performance. Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for you and sticking with it. With the right approach, you can turn the challenges of ADHD into opportunities for growth and success in your studies.


If you find yourself or your child struggling with ADHD in school, you may benefit from hiring one of our expert tutors! Tutors can help set guidelines, schedules, and strong study habits for our students to thrive, and give you the confidence needed for success in school. Visit our website to learn more about our tutors and how we can help boost your or your child's grades today!


ADHD Studying Summary


In general, learning with ADHD comes with its own set of unique challenges. To do well, you'll want to find a good, strong study schedule with which you can break down subjects into short bursts of studying while prioritizing important subjects first. The environment you put yourself in matters too, as quiet and organized areas or strategies yield the best results, use calendars and to-do lists! Usage of study techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique or Feynman Method can help greatly. Using different review strategies to improve your future performance can also make great progress with studying. And finally, tutoring with tutors specialized with ADHD, such as the tutors at Nucleus Tutoring, can greatly help retention and confidence!

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