I have ADHD. How do I study better?

In an ideal world, everyone would absorb new information just as easily as ‘other people’. But in reality, people — especially neurodivergent people — learn in different ways. Traditional learning methods aren't designed for everyone.

Neurodivergent students, you’re not alone!

Neurodivergent students don’t have it easy. Even though you have the same study materials, exams, and goals as other students, you struggle with focus, memorization, or group work, leaving you feeling like you’re constantly behind. 

Here's the good news: learning differences like ADHD are becoming more recognized, especially among young students. In no way does having a learning challenge mean that you’re less intelligent or slower than other students. It simply means that you learn best in different ways.

This is the first part of our blog post series, where we will explore the most common learning challenges and share some tips on how to study more effectively. 

Let’s start with ADHD. 

What is ADHD?

ADHD  stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can cause difficulty focusing, staying still, and controlling impulses. People with ADHD may also have trouble with organization, time management, and completing tasks.

ADHD presentation varies across childhood, adulthood, and symptoms can also differ by gender, with girls generally diagnosed later. Studies suggest that around 80% of adults with ADHD are undiagnosed.

Some of your most common learning challenges if you have ADHD: 

Struggling to focus 😣

The traditional classroom can feel like a battlefield for students with ADHD. You might be surrounded by classmates absorbing information like sponges, while you struggle to stay focused or motivated and can’t stop looking at the fly in the window. 

Long paragraphs are a blur, everything around you is a distraction, and the teacher's voice fades into background noise. ADHD can make it hard to sustain attention, especially for long explanations or reading assignments. 

Memory problems 🫗

You might find yourself rereading the same paragraph ten times, but the words just won't stick. Important dates, formulas, or historical figures are a particular challenge. 

Not enjoying group work 👥

Sitting still for long discussions can feel like an eternity. You can’t stop thinking about the million other things you'd rather be doing.

Lack of organization skills 📆

Is your backpack a mess, you forgot to bring your notebooks (again), and your notes are scattered all over the place? Organizational struggles are another key sign of ADHD. 

Learning tips for students with ADHD

Break down your tasks ➗

Highlight the most important points, or use mind maps to visually connect ideas.  Summarize the information in your own words! This will make the material feel less overwhelming and help you focus.

Channel your energy 🏃

Regular exercise can be a helpful tool in managing ADHD symptoms. Even moderate-intensity exercise for 30 minutes most days of the week can improve focus, attention, and emotional regulation in both children and adults with ADHD. 

In class, you can use quiet fidget toys that can help you focus. Discreet options include squishy stress balls or fidget spinners with a silent mechanism.

Invent memory tricks 🧠

Your brain loves connections! Come up with rhymes or fun details to link info you need to remember. Are you a visual learner? Try flashcards and diagrams! These creative techniques will help you store and recall information much easier.

➕ Bonus tip: You can create AI flashcards, diagram cards, fill-in-the-blanks, and voice flashcards in Voovo, in a matter of seconds!

Find enjoyable study options 📱

Instead of reading long, boring chapters in textbooks... You can make studying fun! Gamification elements in apps like points, badges, and leaderboards tap into the reward system of the ADHD brain, making studying feel more exciting and less like a chore. This can significantly boost motivation and engagement with the learning material.

Try spaced repetition 🔁

Cramming requires long stretches of focused attention, which can be challenging for those with ADHD. Instead of cramming, try studying with spaced repetition, a method that breaks down information into manageable chunks. This allows for reviewing in short bursts that better align with the typical ADHD attention span.

➕ Bonus tip: Voovo has a built-in spaced repetition algorithm that adjusts the interval between reviews based on the user's interaction. You can rate your knowledge of each flashcard, and the app determines the optimal time to show it again for maximum retention.

Create clear to-do lists ✅

Large tasks can feel overwhelming for ADHD brains. Try using a planner or a visual app to map out mini-deadlines for each step of studying. Set realistic deadlines and schedule breaks in between to keep yourself focused and motivated. Remember, progress, not perfection!

Fun fact: Checking a list item triggers a dopamine release in your brain, rewarding you with a feeling of accomplishment. 🌟

➕ Bonus tip: Voovo helps personalize your study schedule by telling you exactly what to review and when to maximize recall. One less thing to worry about! 

Designate specific areas for studying 📚

Create a study zone! Pick a quiet, well-lit space free from distractions. This will help train your brain to focus when you're in that area.

Declutter your zone and keep only what you need for studying readily available. Use organizers like trays for frequently used items to minimize clutter and frantic searches that can derail your focus.

Find study partners 🤝

Seek people who complement your learning style. Maybe you need someone who keeps things organized or another high-energy individual who shares your enthusiasm.

Don’t be afraid to explain that you might need to take short breaks to refocus or prefer quieter environments for discussions.

Remember: You’ve got this!

We hope that these tips help transform your studying into a more fun and manageable process. The key is to discover your unique learning style. By exploring different tools and techniques, you can create a study approach that helps make the most out of your skillset.

Let us know if you have any other useful tips for people with ADHD. 

Students with ADHD love using Voovo. Download it for free from the App Store or Google Play!