Ask Ada

Dear Ask ada, 
It's been a little hard after school when I'm doing my homework. What are some tips that would help not get distracted! 
Thanks,
 - Im cool


Dear I’m Cool,

If I’m being honest, I agree that sometimes it’s tough to stay focused. I mean, if you can choose between an essay and Minecraft, it’s pretty much a no brainer, so I’m here to help!

1. The first strategy I have is one word; parents. When my parents tell me to do something, I’m more likely to do it than when I tell myself to do something. So if you’re doing homework, try doing it in the same room as a parent, for two reasons; You can ask them questions if you need help, and they’ll make sure you don’t go off-track.
2. Of course, sometimes your parents are unavailable, and you can’t sit with them and do your work. So instead you can arrange a recurring meeting with them. Pick a day of the week where you’re both free for fifteen minutes to talk about what’s going on at school. Before the meeting, get yourself orgagnized and get ready to talk about what work is done, upcoming assignments, school events, ect.
3. I actually had to do this one for myself; ban the apps/sites that you use too much. We banned a website that had been distracting me too much, and at first, I was sad because I really liked that website. Then I came to see that it was a good thing, and when I get better at paying attention to my homework, we can bring the site back.

I really hoped all of these tips helped, I know it can be hard to pay attention, even if it’s an assignment that you enjoy doing. Good luck! Just remember, in the long run, your grades are more important than a diamond pickaxe!

-Ask Ada