How To Do Your Homework Without Falling Asleep

Prolific Sparkler xXx_lola_xXx has some practical–and some unconventional—tips for getting that boring homework finished. Enjoy! —SparkNotes Editors

I'm about a month into my freshman year of high school, and one thing is clear: I hate homework. I think it was created to torture all children. No, wait, that's school in general.

I am determined to help you finish your homework as quickly as possible, because I truly believe that nobody should be forced to deal with this ridiculous torture.

Steps to Success:

1) Listen to good music. Some people focus better when they have some music going on in the background because it blocks out any distracting noises. Lots of people are distracted by music with lyrics, but other people find that lyrics focus them. Choose whatever kind of music keeps you in the zone.

2) Get a delicious snack. When you don't have an empty stomach, you can focus on the homework and not the rumbling in your tummy. Eat something that tastes good, preferably healthy, and that will satisfy you. If you don't have a snack, you'll be almost crying from hunger by the time dinner rolls around.

3) Keep your phone on. I know this goes against everything you were ever taught, but what if you forgot an assignment and need to text someone? Plus, it's been proven that indulging in a distraction every now and then can help you focus when you return to doing your work. So go ahead and text Laney about her boyfriend kissing Rachel in Algebra II. You can only benefit, as long as you don't go overboard.

4) Do your homework somewhere you won't get distracted. I know I just said occasional distractions aren't a bad thing, but do you really and truly want your younger brother screaming at you for eating all the Cocoa Puffs? I didn't think so. So lock your door when you can. If you don't have a lock on your door, prop up a chair underneath the doorknob. If your door opens into the hallway, not into your room...um...hide out in the closet?

5) Keep a planner. You might not see the importance of a planner until you forget all about  that French test that's worth a full letter grade. If you write down the assignments, you will be fully prepared to ace that test and Mr. Lecroix will give you extra credit. Maybe.

6) Keep a good book nearby. When you keep zoning out on your English essay on Hamlet's uncle, take a break and read a chapter of a book you're enjoying. Reading something you like will help you focus more when you get back to work. I personally tend to read too much, so I must warn fellow nerds to be careful.

7) Grab a pack of gum at the grocery store. Gum is scientifically proven to enhance brain activity. If you get a good flavor that lasts, like, forever, you won't end up playing with it in your fingers, which I also tend to do.

8) Keep a timer nearby. When you have a timer, you can get engrossed in a good novel or text convo and you don't have to worry about doing this activity for waaaay too long. Set the timer for about fifteen minutes and enjoy your distraction without worrying about looking at the clock. When the timer goes off, however, you have to go back to the desk or bed—or wherever you do your homework—and continue your geometry.

9) Have an enforcer keep you focused. Request that your mom or dad to knock on your door periodically and ask how you're doing with your homework. And answer truthfully. If you need help, go unlock the door (or remove the chair) and ask them if they can help you on the assignment. When you have someone checking on your progress every half an hour or so, you tend to focus more and try to get it done so they can leave you alone.

I would love to hear you suggestions! Write them in the comments so I can try your methods.

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