Take Smart Brakes - Study Tip #5
In a world where productivity often feels like a race against the clock, powering through study sessions without pause can be tempting. However, research shows that taking short, smart breaks is not just beneficial — it’s essential for effective learning.
Sometimes, I put studying at the top of my list and spend many hours a day learning. My study-life balance is not very balanced, but I still want to get a good amount of sleep, eat nutritious food, and take breaks.
Even a short amount of time not spent learning—like listening to my favorite songs, breathing fresh air, or moving my body—helps me refocus and regain the energy to continue learning.
In this Study Tip, I will describe the research behind taking study breaks and why they matter, and share some examples.
Let’s explore this topic!
The Science Behind Short Breaks
A study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that taking short breaks during learning tasks can help our brains consolidate new skills more efficiently.
When we take breaks, our brains process and store information, making it easier to retrieve and apply later.
Moreover, research from Cornell Health highlights the importance of breaks for stress reduction.
Continuous studying can lead to mental fatigue and burnout, but even brief pauses can refresh your mind and reduce stress.
Why Breaks Work
According to Chartered Accountants Ireland, taking strategic breaks improves concentration and productivity.
The brain has a limited capacity for sustained focus. After about 25 to 30 minutes, mental sharpness begins to decline.
By stepping away for a few minutes, you give your mind the chance to reset and return to the task with renewed energy.
How to Take Smart Breaks
Not all breaks are created equal.
Mindlessly scrolling through social media might seem like a break, but it’s not the most effective way to recharge.
(However, it is easier said than done. I often find myself scrolling during study breaks but try to limit that to a minimum.)
Instead, try these smart break strategies:
1. Move Your Body (3-5 minutes)
A short walk, stretching, or even a quick dance session (in front of a mirror to your favorite song—highly recommended!) can increase blood flow to the brain and boost cognitive function.
2. Practice Mindfulness (2-5 minutes)
Close your eyes, take deep breaths, and focus on the present moment. Mindfulness reduces stress and enhances concentration.
3. Get Creative (5 minutes)
Doodle, write in a journal, or do a simple craft. Engaging in creative activities can help your brain make new connections.
4. Hydrate and Snack (2-3 minutes)
Grab a healthy snack and a glass of water to fuel your brain for the next study session.
5. Go Outside (5-10 minutes)
If possible, step outside for fresh air. Exposure to nature has been linked to improved mood and cognitive performance.
The Pomodoro Technique: A Proven Method
One popular way to incorporate smart breaks is the Pomodoro Technique.
This method involves 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break. After four cycles, you take a longer 15- to 30-minute break.
This simple approach has helped countless students and professionals maintain high productivity.
For me, the Pomodoro Technique worked well when I was in high school and college. Now, I manage to study without this method, focusing as long as I can and then taking a break.
If you want to try this method, here is a link to a sample Pomodoro timer: Pomofocus.
Final Thoughts
Smart breaks are not a luxury — they are a necessity for effective learning and mental well-being.
The next time you sit down to study, remember that stepping away is just as important as staying focused. By taking smart breaks, you can work smarter, learn better, and feel more energized.
As always, if you find this post interesting or helpful, you can let me know in the comments, by email, or on LinkedIn.
Good luck in studying, and see you in the next Study Tip post!