In today’s world, where phones buzz constantly and notifications appear every few minutes, one of the greatest challenges for students isn’t necessarily the content of their studies, it’s staying focused. Digital distractions have quietly become one of the biggest obstacles to effective learning.

Research shows that simply having a mobile phone in sight can reduce concentration, as the brain is primed to anticipate alerts. Each time a student checks their device, it can take several minutes to regain the same level of focus. Over the course of a revision session, these small interruptions accumulate, significantly reducing productivity.

Tutoring provides an opportunity to address this issue directly. by creating a distraction free environment, tutors can model what focused, high-quality learning looks like. Encouraging students to silence notifications, place devices out of reach, or use apps that limit access to social media can make a remarkable difference. These adjustments help learners experience the benefits of deep, uninterrupted focus.

Of course, the solution isn’t to ban technology altogether. Instead, students benefit from learning how to manage it. Setting clear study intervals with built-in “phone breaks” can reduce the constant urge to check messages. In this way, balance becomes the key as students gain the freedom to stay connected, while still protecting their study time.

Importantly, learning to manage digital distractions builds discipline and independence. In an age of constant stimulation, the ability to focus deeply is becoming a rare and valuable skill. Where at university, in the workplace or in everyday life, those who can concentrate fully will always have an advantage.

Ultimately, tutoring is about much more than grades. It’s also about helping young people to develop habits that allow them to thrive. recognising and managing distractions is one of the most powerful habits of all and sometimes, the most effective study strategy is the simplest – turn the phone face down and give your full attention to the task at hand.

Isabella Naumovski