This is a productivity technique so simple, you'll wonder if it's for real. Trust me, this works.

It's called the pomodoro technique, in honour a the little pomodoro-shaped kitchen timer in the pic.

Here's how it works...

• Set the pomodoro timer for 25 minutes (there are loads of free apps that serve the same function).

• Work. Study. Whatever. Just do what you've got to do for the full 25 minutes. Total focus. No interruptions. No calls. No email. Anyone can focus for just 25 minutes.

• After the 25 minutes are up, take a 5 minute break. To work well, the break needs to be a complete break from what you're doing and where you're doing it. Maybe go to the kitchen and get a brew, rather than stay in the same seat and go on Facebook.

• Repeat as many times as you like. The official method is to complete four cycles and then take a longer break of around 30 - 60 minutes before completing a further four cycles.
  

Simple, but really effective. Don't believe me? Try it out and report back to me in the classroom.  :)