How to Actually “Lock In”

Everyone always says it, but is anyone actually doing it?

By Lea Tran

The phrase “lock in” has been said probably more than a million times in Mugar Library alone. Merriam Webster dictionary describes it as “to enter a deep state of focus”, commonly referring to situations in which people need to study or get an important task done. But how effectively do we “lock in”? 

It’s one thing to promise your study buddies that it’s time to zone in on your work. But after an hour of gossiping and surfing the internet, you realize that your deep focus was on something completely unrelated to the task at hand. 

So, in the spirit of midterm season coming to a close, and in hopes of helping everyone bounce back for finals, here are my tips and tricks for actually achieving that deeply-desired state of focus and locking in.

1. Go somewhere silent, or at least quiet.

I’ve found if I don’t even give myself the option to talk to anyone, I actually get my work done. Big surprise. The third floor of Mugar seems tempting, especially since no one wants to be holed up alone all day, but we should utilize the upper floors of the library more. 

My friends and I sit in cubicles next to one another on the fourth floor and study in silence. It’s nice because I’m not completely alone, but we end up being super productive since talking is off the table unless we want the librarian to come and shush us. 

2. Go somewhere far and off-campus.

Mugar and CDS are great study spots because they’re a short walk from dorms. But to be more productive, I go to a café about a 30-minute T-ride off campus. My reasoning is that, if I traveled so far to study, then I absolutely have to be productive, no questions asked. All that travel time and money spent on coffee would go to waste if I didn’t finish at least one assignment. 

Getting off campus is also a nice way to reset. Leaving the tense environment of the library for a quiet coffee shop makes my head feel clearer. Boston has a café on practically every corner, so why not kill two birds with one stone and explore the city while also getting some work done? 

3. Put your phone out of sight.

This is pretty straightforward, but locking your phone and putting it out of reach really does wonders. If I study at home, I put my phone in a different room so I’d have to get up and look for it. Sometimes I’ll even leave it uncharged to add that extra barrier tempting me to scroll. 

It’s pretty hard to resist everything the internet and social media have to offer, especially since you can access a lot just through your laptop. But this small extra precaution has helped me lock in a whole lot better.

4. Set goals.

Before every study session, I make a list of tasks I need to complete before I leave my designated spot. I literally write them in my Notes app or Google Calendar so they’re set in stone. Some people set timers for the amount of time they wish to study for and when they get rewarded with a break. 

I like to give myself a break after I finish one task. No matter how long it takes me to write a three page essay or finish my flashcards, I don't take a break until I check off one item. It feels more flexible. I don’t have to rush against the clock, and my flow isn't disrupted. 

5. Take a break.

Most importantly, “lock out” from time to time. It’s not healthy to hunch over a problem set for hours on end. Take a break, stretch, eat something, talk to a friend — even if it’s only for five minutes. Clearing your mind with something that isn’t work lets you refresh and hopefully tackle your assignments with a new set of eyes. 

These are obviously not a guarantee you’ll ace your exams. But they can definitely help you “lock in” and make the most of your study time.