How to study with ADHD
Competing with procrastination? Here’s a practical guide to stimulate your next online study session.
The ADHD brain craves stimulation. When you study something you’re passionate about, your course will satisfy your desire to learn new things.
But it’s also important to make online study work for you. That’s why we’ve put together a list of strategies for studying with ADHD—from the power of music to working with your natural energy levels.
Tips for studying with ADHD
Finding it hard to start your study session? You may be experiencing executive dysfunction, which involves difficulty prioritising, planning, and remembering your tasks.
Luckily, online learning can give you control over your surroundings. Why not start your study session by setting up your ideal space?
If you find relaxation in ambient lighting, or concentrate best with a sensory object to touch and twirl, these elements could bring comfort and stimulation to your online study session.
Music is another useful resource. For students with ADHD, it can improve academic performance, help you stay on task, and increase memory recall—making it a powerful tool in your study space.
Try building yourself a custom playlist before you get stuck into your study session (or check out these playlists we’ve prepared for you). One study showed that students who listened to Beethoven during online lectures achieved higher exam results the next day!
If you prefer learning without the sensory stimulation of music, you might like to set yourself up in a quiet space, or wear your favourite noise-cancelling headphones.
Is procrastination a sign of ADHD?
The short answer is yes. Procrastination is a sign of ADHD—but it’s far from a dealbreaker for online study. The key is understanding why you might be drifting into a daydream instead of focusing on your assessment.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with the quantity of tasks, you could find yourself procrastibaking or scrolling on your phone—in other words, chasing dopamine for a quick reward.
- Related reading: Help! Why do I leave my assignments until the last minute?
Perfectionism can also lead to procrastination for students with ADHD. Understandably, it can feel challenging to work under the weight of perfection. You might procrastinate with more familiar activities, bringing you comfort without those internal pressures.
Check in with yourself to find the source of your procrastination. It could help you understand why you’re not spending as much time on the task.
Most importantly, don’t be too hard on yourself for losing focus!
Body doubling for a dose of inspiration
Studying online doesn’t have to mean studying alone. Some students with ADHD use body doubling to increase motivation and stay on task. This involves finding another person who can observe your studies or undertake a task at the same time as you.
Could you find a study partner, or connect with your fellow students through online discussion boards? If you feel comfortable, you could even do a call out for a study buddy in our Facebook group.
Outside your subject, could you meet with a friend who is working on their own project? Your tasks don’t need to be identical for body doubling to work!
Carve out some time for a productivity session, and support each other through your individual goals.
Mastering your energy levels with ADHD
Some students with ADHD experience insomnia. Even if you manage a good night’s sleep, you may still feel fatigued thanks to the energy it takes for your brain to stay focused. That’s why it’s important to recognise that your workflow might not look the same as everybody else’s.
When you listen to your body, you’ll learn how your energy levels fluctuate —– and how to harness the moments when you’re feeling your best.
For students with ADHD, online study means fewer mental resources are spent planning your day around travel and face-to-face activities. Take advantage of the opportunity to be flexible and study at your own pace.
If you’re not feeling it, why not take a break? Play a video game to enhance your memory and attention. Head outside for a walk or some gentle movement, and you’ll boost your learning skills.
Your energy may also be fuelled by hyperfocus. This involves maintaining your flow for hours at a stretch, reaching good levels of productivity and enjoyment alike.
If you’re in hyperfocus, you might find yourself studying at a time of day when your brain feels most active and inspired. But don’t forget to eat and drink!
Making online study work for you
Open Universities Australia gives you the flexibility to study online, building a course load to match your unique interests and energy levels.
Not every strategy for studying online with ADHD will work for you. If you’re still finding it hard to focus, you’re not alone.
Open Universities Australia offers dedicated disability support services. Book a free consultation with a student advisor to ask us more about this or find a contact on our website.
You can also reach out to your GP or mental health practitioner for tailored support.
Disclaimer: This blog is general in nature and does not provide formal medical advice.
