7 Tips To Avoid Distractions From Your Phone When Studying

If you want to avoid distractions from your phone when studying, start by making a few simple changes to your study routine.

You settle down to begin studying with your books, only to receive a notification on your phone after a few minutes. Before you know it, you’re getting distracted by videos, messages or social media.

Many people experience this issue. Using your phone can often lead to becoming distracted by entertainment rather than studying.

The key here is to establish a routine for studying so your phone does not constantly distract you. A few simple habits can help you avoid distractions from your phone and stay focused on your work.

Why Do You Get Distracted By Your Phone When Studying?

Distractions from messages, social media, notifications and wanting to quickly check your phone.

A systematic review was conducted in 2025 looking at digital distractions in education. It looked at the causes, effects and ways to prevent these distractions. Read the systematic review on digital distractions in education.

The good news is that there are a few simple changes you can make to your study environment to help reduce distractions.

How To Avoid Distractions From Your Phone When Studying: 7 Tips

1. Put Your Phone Away To Avoid Distractions

If your phone is visible on your desk, even if it is on silent, you will be tempted to check it.

While studying put your phone away in your bag, a drawer or another room. This is a simple way to avoid distractions from your phone. If you do need your phone whilst studying, only have the relevant app open.

2. Turn Off Unnecessary Notifications

Messages, social media and app notifications can be a distraction.

Using your Focus Mode or Do Not Disturb mode will help reduce distractions. However, ensure you have your important calls and emergency contacts on.

3. Only Check At Specific Times

It may not be realistic to avoid using your phone entirely.

Instead, set specific times to check your messages/social media. For example, take a short break after 30-45 minutes of focused studying.

4. Use An App Or Website Blocker

If you commonly get distracted by opening certain websites or apps, using an app or website blocker can help.

You can set specific times during your study period to block these sites.

BlockerX can help you block certain content online depending on your device.

5. Set A Simple Study Routine

If you do not have a clear goal for your study session, you can become distracted.

Write down what you want to achieve whilst studying. If you have a large task to complete, break it down into smaller chunks. Set realistic time limits.

For example:

• Read one topic (25 mins)
• Break (5 mins)
• Take notes (25 mins)
• Break (5 mins)

Alter the times to suit your concentration and workload.

6. Minimise Distractions In Your Study Area

Your study area can affect how easily you can concentrate.

Ensure your desk is tidy, books and stationery are ready to go, and any unnecessary browser tabs are closed.

If you are using a laptop to study, do not have any social media or entertainment sites open.

7. Have A Refreshing Break Instead Of Using Your Phone

Sometimes having a break from studying does not require using your phone.

Instead of opening social media, have a quick walk, drink some water, do some stretches, get some fresh air or chat to a friend/ family member. Having a short break from screens can help refresh your mind.

What If You Continue To Check Your Phone?

If you become distracted by your phone do not get frustrated with yourself. Think about why you became distracted.

Were you bored, tired, confused with a topic or avoiding a difficult task?

Knowing why can help you to make a better choice. Maybe you need a short break, clear study goals or help to understand.

Creating a new habit takes practice. Focus on making one change.

FAQs

How Can I Avoid Checking My Phone Whilst Studying?

Put your phone away, turn off any unnecessary notifications and set specific times to check your messages. Use Focus Mode or an app blocker.

Should I Put My Phone In Another Room?

If you do not need your phone whilst studying then putting it in another room will help. If you do need it, only have the necessary apps open.

How Long Should I Study For?

Start with 25-30 minutes of focused study and then take a short break. Alter depending on your workload and concentration.

Will Website Blockers Help?

They can help by blocking certain distracting websites/apps. They work best when used with a realistic study routine and clear goals, especially when you are trying to avoid distractions from your phone.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to avoid distractions from your phone whilst studying does not mean you cannot use technology. It means using it with a clear goal in mind.

To avoid distractions from your phone, start by putting it away, setting a study routine and turning off unnecessary notifications. Making small changes can help you create a more focused study routine.