Why putting away my phone was the key to studying effectively?

I thought I could multitask—study with my phone nearby, check messages between paragraphs. But research shows multitasking is a myth; our brains just switch rapidly between tasks, losing focus each time . I finally tried the 'phone in another room' method. Complete game changer.

My study sessions became shorter but way more productive. I'd spend 45 minutes completely focused, then check my phone as a reward. I got more done in two hours than I used to in four. If you're constantly distracted, try leaving your phone in another room or using an app locker. The focus gain is incredible.

I had the exact same “I can totally handle it” delusion until I tracked how often I picked my phone up during reading… it was embarrassing. What you described (shorter sessions but more output) makes sense because the real killer isn’t the 20-second check, it’s the context-switching cost—it takes a few minutes to get fully back into the groove.

What worked for me is adding friction:

• phone in a drawer / other room (best)
• or at least on Do Not Disturb + grayscale
• keep only my laptop tab open for what I’m doing

I also like your “reward check” idea. I do 40–50 minutes focused, then 10 minutes phone/social. It turns the phone from a constant drip-feed into a planned break, which weirdly makes it less tempting.

If anyone thinks they “need” their phone for studying, I’d try a compromise: keep it nearby but face down, notifications off, and only allow it during breaks. It’s wild how much calmer your brain feels