Having trouble keeping your eyes open during class, even after a good night’s rest? We get the struggle of that all-too-familiar head bob and just needing a second to “rest your eyes.” No matter if you have an early class, one in the middle of the afternoon, or a long night class, everyone deals with feeling tired, especially in college when you’re juggling studying and having a social life. You’re a typical student! So, what do you do the next time you’re in a two-hour class and your eyes start to get unbearably heavy? Luckily, we have 13 tips to help keep you focused. Definitely still grab your go-to coffee (because, yum), but use these, too. You won’t regret it.
Related: 20 Years Later, This Is Still the Best Piece of College Advice I Got (and Now Give)
Getty / Karl Tapales
Shower before class.
Have a 9 a.m. class? Hop out of bed in the morning and head straight for the shower. It’ll wake you right up!
Getty / The Good Brigade
Bring a water bottle.
Staying hydrated is a key factor in staying awake. Try putting ice in your water bottle; the cold water will keep you lively and alert.
Getty / Claudia Totir
Bring a snack.
Munching on something, like an apple or some cheese, will help keep you focused and decrease your fatigue.
Unsplash / Simon Rae
Shed a layer.
If it’s warm in your classroom, you’re more likely to get tired and fall asleep. Take off your jacket or open a window to catch the cool breeze.
Getty / Roos Koole
Chew gum.
Chewing gum is a repetitive act that keeps the blood flowing and takes your mind off the tiredness.
Unsplash / Nicole Honeywill
Save the daydreaming for after class.
Daydreaming in a one-way track to falling asleep! Taking notes is one way of focusing. Whether it’s by hand or on a laptop, jotting down notes will help to keep your body active and your mind focused on the lecture.
Unsplash / Tom Rogerson
Go to the bathroom.
Walk off the sleepiness by taking a trip to the bathroom. The process of walking will get the blood circulating again. And don’t forget to take a stretch break while you’re in the hallway.
Getty / gilaxia
Sit up, and focus on your posture.
Roll your shoulders back, and remember not to slouch. Slouching can cause unnecessary stress on your muscles and lead to fatigue.
Unsplash / Kyle Loftus
Tug on your earlobes.
Yes, it sounds odd, but it works! Due to acupoints on your ears, this is a surefire way to get the brain going.
Unsplash / Tra Nguyen
Interact with your professor.
Ask questions! Listen to the lecture and actively think of difficult questions to raise. This will force you to focus on what the professor has to say.
Unsplash / JC Gellidon
Bring eyedrops.
It’s hard to stay wide-eyed and awake when your eyes are dry and irritated from lack of sleep. When they’re feeling dry, splash a couple drops in them. You’ll feel more refreshed and your eyes will be grateful.
Unsplash / Nathan Dumlao
Sit in the front row, or at least in the middle!
The closer you are to the professor, the less likely you are to fall asleep due to volume. Not to mention the fear of getting caught dozing off will keep you wide awake!
Unsplash / Christin Hume
Don't browse the web.
Facebook may keep you awake, but you won’t be focusing on the class. You might as well be asleep!
