Learning how to stop procrastinating while studying is the key to successful revision. Given the huge number of ICAEW members and ACA students we support during stressful exam times, we understand the pressure you're under and are here to help.
what is procrastination?
Procrastination doesn’t just apply to revision, but all aspects of our professional and personal life. In a nutshell, it’s the act of putting off tasks. According to research carried out by the US psychologist Piers Steel, 80% to 95% of college students procrastinate, particularly in relation to completing coursework.
It's important to remember you're not alone if you're struggling to concentrate when revising.
how to prevent revision procrastination
stop wasting time
Putting off revision only means you'll wind up with more pressure on yourself. The sooner you take action, the less daunting the task will become and the less anxious you'll feel.
If needs be, start small; the main thing is that you make a start.
eat those frogs
This is a simple method that we can all use to avoid falling into the procrastination trap.
If there’s a part of your revision you're putting off, you should go ahead and eat those frogs first, otherwise they’ll end up eating you because you’ll be procrastinating all day about them.
set achievable goals
Giving yourself mountains of revision to do in an unrealistic timeframe is counterproductive. Take a practical approach by identifying what you need to learn and how long you have to learn it.
After this, you can break it down into more manageable blocks.
prevent distractions
Distractions are everywhere, even more so if you’re stuck in procrastination mode! If you live in a busy household, take yourself away into a room where you can shut the door and focus.
If that’s not possible, consider revising somewhere quiet, for example your local library.
6 tips for efficient revision
“I found myself staring at my screen for long periods of time unable to work and therefore not being as productive as I could have been.“
