How To Concentrate On Boring Books (10 points)?

Question

Hey, I'm 15, I just started school again today. I'm a sophomore. For my Advanced Placement European History class we have a really boring history textbook.

How do I concentrate on it for homework? I have to read 10 long, boring pages, with barely any pictures either.

Also, all my other classes are Honors and Advanced Placement, so I have a lot of work.

Answer 1

I'd just sit down and read it for as long as it takes to sink in...it may be boring...but if you've got to do it then you have to do it right?  If it helps read for half and hour and then take a 5 or 10 minute break and start reading again.

Answer 2

Make yourself read for about 10-25 mins. at 'night'. It'll become a habit at night to read so every night you will have to read the book, haha I had to read 40 pgs. in 1 day and I made it!

Answer 3

The same applies to me but in ollege it gets alot worse so just focus and find new study habits to help you!!!

Answer 4

just read the 10 pages gradually

Answer 5

Well.. I'm 20, back when I was in high school/middle school and I had really boring things to read... I would always find a way to treat myself after I got it done. Like... if you're into video games, tell yourself that after you read three pages, you'll take a 20 or 30 minute break and play games, then go back and finish another couple of pages. Or replace video games with whatever your hobbies are. Thats what I did, it seemed to work.

Answer 6

I feel your pain.... lol.  Back in hs i had to real Tess of the D'ubervilles..... UGG....Anyway, you could try finding meaning and symbolism in the text (its hard i know).  

Make a table. Write down names of characters and events as they happen on a piece of paper, then add details about them when you read them.  Even if the stuff you read didnt stick, you can always go back and review your notes.

At the end of each page (or paragraph if need be), summarize to yourself what happened in your own words so that you understand whats going on.

If the book is your own, make notes in the margins.  The more the better.

Find a particular name, word or phrase that is repeated often and get a drink.  Every time you come across the word, take a drink.  This way you'll have to pay attention to the words to watch for your phrase (my english prof came up with this "game" to help students pay attention in class).

If all else fails, get cliff notes.  A warning though, teachers (esp in AP classes) may ask specific questions to make sure you read the actual text and not cliff notes.

Answer 7

End every paragraph with "in bed"   It sometimes make for a funny mental image.

Answer 8

Sit down with your book in a quiet place with no music, no noise, and no food while reading your book.  This should help you concentrate.

Answer 9

think of something intersting then read 2 pages every minute.. i prefer a hot girl or something lol