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Attention Checks

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Attention Checking is a helpful self-monitoring strategy used to boost efficiency and productivity when working or studying. This tool will help you monitor, sustain, and evaluate your attention while completing your tasks.

  • Choose the task you want to complete
  • Pick the total length of time you want to work/study
  • Choose your number of attention check intervals, and the length of your intervals. The interval lengths should be based on how long you typically sustain full attention.
  • Set a timer for the interval time of your choosing (e.g. 5 mins, 10 mins, 15 mins)
  • When the timer goes off, determine whether you are on task (Y) or off task (N), and mark the corresponding interval box. If you find that you’re off-task, redirect yourself!
  • After the study session, evaluate how many times you were on or off-task, and adjust your approach accordingly.

Preview of the attention checks document that asks about tasks, study length, interval lengths, and whether a person was on task.

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