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Study Tips for Students with ADHD

The ADHD Centre
Written by The ADHD Centre
Dr Mukesh Kripalani
Clinically reviewed by Dr Mukesh Kripalani Lead Consultant Psychiatrist •
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Nowadays, more and more students are diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Inattentive ADHD or Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). Because of the nature of these conditions, students struggle to pay attention during class. They quickly lose focus and have weak working memories. Some students even have a hard time accomplishing tedious or challenging tasks and usually procrastinates which hinders them to do well in school. Learn from this article about the student ADHD study tips.

In helping a student with ADHD excel at school, we need to determine first what are their special needs and come up with unique solutions. We need to find out what works out for them since every person with ADHD is different. One way to determine what specific strategies that will help students with ADHD make the grade is to experiment. By experimenting, you will be able to figure out specific ADHD strategies that would be beneficial for the student.

To help you get started, here is a list of study tips that will help students with ADD or ADHD develop good study habits and improve their study skills.

Student ADHD Study Tips

Establish the appropriate study environment

Creating a good and productive study environment will help students with ADD or ADHD be motivated, concentrate more, and develop retention. They need to have a quiet and organized space to study. Designate a specific place to study that is free from distractions and have the essential study materials.

Keep a planner

Having a planner will help students don’t lose track of time. A planner will keep a student more organized and aware. By having a written schedule of academic assignments, school activities, and social activities, the student will know what he or she needs to be doing.

Plan a regular schedule to study

It would be beneficial for children with ADD or ADHD to have a consistent routine. Schedule an appropriate time each day where the child will do his or her homework. Choose the most suitable time for him or her to study. This will help the child improve his or her focus and concentration.

Take 10 to 15 minutes study breaks

It would be a bit too much for a child with ADHD to study for two to three hours straight. They may feel overwhelmed, and it will be hard for them to stay focus, which is why having study breaks is a must. They can study for 20 minutes then take a break for 10 to 15 minutes. Having shorter study intervals with frequent breaks will help them refresh and reset their minds.

Set a study date

Having a little help from classmates will make a schoolwork easier to do. Studying with a fellow student can be greatly advantageous especially in answering homework about difficult concepts. Finding a disciplined study buddy can also be more effective.

Exercise regularly

Doing physical exercises regularly sharpens focus, enhances the immune system, and improves executive functioning skills especially for students with ADHD. Doing ballet, yoga, tai chi, or even having aerobic exercises for thirty minutes, four to five days in a week, will help students with ADD or ADHD boosts their brain activity.

Create a reward system

Setting up a system where students earn a reward for finishing a task will encourage them and help them to be motivated. The award does not need to be excessive. Letting them do the activity they love will do.

Set realistic expectations and goals

If a student is a slow reader, having heavy-reading courses may be stressful for him or her which results in poor academic performance. Identifying a proper solution and creating a reasonable schedule will help a student with ADHD address scholastic challenges. Consult with an ADHD specialist to help you determine the right expectation for the student.

Encourage a positive attitude

Don’t let your student feel discouraged especially when he or she is having poor academic performance. Help the student to resist all the negative thoughts. Change his or her attitude by teaching him or her to be more positive. If you keep on encouraging the student, it will help boost his or her self-esteem and performance at school.

Developing excellent study skills will require a certain amount of time and effort. To improve the academic performance of students with ADHD, you need to be dedicated to helping them develop good study habits. You have to be ready for any challenges and be determined to do better. Aim for success, and eventually, you would be able to reach your goal and help your student achieve academic success.

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Medical disclaimer

This article is for general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified clinician with any questions about your health. If you think you or your child may have ADHD, a consultant-led assessment is the clearest way to get answers you can trust.

Dr Mukesh Kripalani — Lead Consultant Psychiatrist at The ADHD Centre

Clinically reviewed by

Dr Mukesh Kripalani

Lead Consultant Psychiatrist • GMC Registered • The ADHD Centre

Dr Mukesh Kripalani is a GMC-registered Consultant Psychiatrist and Lead Clinical Reviewer at The ADHD Centre. With extensive experience assessing and supporting ADHD in children, adolescents and adults, he leads a multidisciplinary team providing evidence-based, NICE-aligned assessment and personalised treatment across the UK.

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