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Posted 9/26/2014 6:38 PM (GMT 0)
I'm wondering if anyone has any tips for concentration? I'm normally scatter brained at best so right now I'm really having a tough time. I've gone back to school for the first time since I dropped out and got my GED at 18. I'm doing all online classes and I'm passing but not doing as well as I'd like. One class in particular is killing me. It's a history of western civilization class and I have been almost incapable of reading or retaining the info in the book.

As of right now I have three huge chapters I have to read and do the work and test on within the next few days. I've put it off because I'm just so scared of quieting my brain long enough to try to read it. My other classes I at least find interesting so I can get absorbed in the material, but not with this.

Does anyone have any suggestions? The longer I put it off the worse my anxiety gets which I know is ridiculous. I need to just crack the stupid book open and give it a try again.
Posted 9/26/2014 7:05 PM (GMT 0)
Hi again! :) I'm actually studying right now...that's why I'm so busy! What I found that helps when I can't get into a subject is that I'll set a timer for 15-30 min and not allow myself to do anything else. Then I get a "reward", 15 min of computer time for example, when I'm done. Keep repeating that til I'm done! It seems less overwhelming to break it down. Good for you going back to school, you can do it! I'm an older student w a kid too. I know how hard it can be!
Posted 9/26/2014 7:35 PM (GMT 0)
yes. good advice. i was studying, mature age as well. not good at retaining though. all the best with ya studies guys.
Posted 9/27/2014 1:12 AM (GMT 0)
I'm a student too. Heavy load right now. I hate studying but I love learning. If I must take a class that I can't get into, I try to write everything important down. Like reading through the chapter write down key words, phrases, dates, etc. This way I have to read, repeat, and write. It helps me maybe it could help you.
Good luck and keep working towards your goals!!
Posted 9/27/2014 7:18 AM (GMT 0)
I did the timer thing too, setting it for a bit. Sometimes reading a few other books on the same subject can give you a breather and refreshen your perspective on your text book, making it easier to read and comprehend.

Taking breaks (from the subject and reading), and just get out for a bit, then come back to it.

Your grades may not be as stellar as you'd like but remember, on a literal basis, all you have to do is pass to graduate!! Don't drive yourself bonkers if you can help it! :)





M.
Posted 9/28/2014 2:42 AM (GMT 0)
As we like to say.... C's get degrees!
Posted 9/29/2014 1:26 PM (GMT 0)
"C's get degrees!" I really must keep this in mind. I was getting really upset because I wanted all A's in everything then realized with what I was going through that was ridiculous. So I told myself all I had to do was pass. Honestly though I'd really like A's and B's. I know that just getting through the semester with as bad as I've been is an accomplishment but I truly want to do well. So it will definitely help my sanity to remember this little mantra!

Great tips everyone thanks!
Posted 9/29/2014 4:37 PM (GMT 0)
I'm taking 25 credits, have a 4 year old son, 3 dogs and GAD/Panic. If I didn't repeat this (C's get degrees) to myself often, I'd never make it through the semester. We are dealing with a lot trying to concentrate and do well in school. We have to cut ourselves a little slack and realize that the goal isn't perfection, the goal is passing. Hang in there!!

Post Edited (MissGigi) : 9/29/2014 11:25:31 AM (GMT-6)

Posted 9/29/2014 5:21 PM (GMT 0)
Miss Gigi- TWENTY FIVE CREDITS???? OMG how are you doing this? I only have thirteen credits and I can't keep up. This is with all my kids now in school all day. I don't know how you do it!!!!! You are an inspiration.
Posted 9/29/2014 5:26 PM (GMT 0)
Hahaha, thanks. :) I don't know what kind of inspiration I am after my performance on my last exam though. Oh well, on to the next one! (tomorrow)

PS: I have to take that many credits. That is how my program is set up. Four years of madness.
Posted 9/29/2014 7:55 PM (GMT 0)
billybologna, what a cool name, what was the question again? :-)
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