too tired to do homework

Daniel Wong

30 Tips to Stop Procrastinating and Find Motivation to Do Homework

Updated on June 6, 2023 By Daniel Wong 44 Comments

To stop procrastinating on homework, you need to find motivation to do the homework in the first place.

But first, you have to overcome feeling too overwhelmed to even start.

You know what it feels like when everything hits you at once, right?

You have three tests to study for and a math assignment due tomorrow.

And you’ve got a history report due the day after.

You tell yourself to get down to work. But with so much to do, you feel overwhelmed.

So you procrastinate.

You check your social media feed, watch a few videos, and get yourself a drink. But you know that none of this is bringing you closer to getting the work done.

Does this sound familiar?

Don’t worry – you are not alone. Procrastination is a problem that everyone faces, but there are ways around it.

By following the tips in this article, you’ll be able to overcome procrastination and consistently find the motivation to do the homework .

So read on to discover 30 powerful tips to help you stop procrastinating on your homework.

Enter your email below to download a PDF summary of this article. The PDF contains all the tips found here, plus  3 exclusive bonus tips that you’ll only find in the PDF.

How to stop procrastinating and motivate yourself to do your homework.

Procrastination when it comes to homework isn’t just an issue of laziness or a lack of motivation .

The following tips will help you to first address the root cause of your procrastination and then implement strategies to keep your motivation levels high.

1. Take a quiz to see how much you procrastinate.

The first step to changing your behavior is to become more self-aware.

How often do you procrastinate? What kinds of tasks do you tend to put off? Is procrastination a small or big problem for you?

To answer these questions, I suggest that you take this online quiz designed by Psychology Today .

2. Figure out why you’re procrastinating.

Procrastination is a complex issue that involves multiple factors.

Stop thinking of excuses for not doing your homework , and figure out what’s keeping you from getting started.

Are you procrastinating because:

• You’re not sure you’ll be able to solve all the homework problems?
• You’re subconsciously rebelling against your teachers or parents?
• You’re not interested in the subject or topic?
• You’re physically or mentally tired?
• You’re waiting for the perfect time to start?
• You don’t know where to start?

Once you’ve identified exactly why you’re procrastinating, you can pick out the tips in this article that will get to the root of the problem.

3. Write down what you’re procrastinating on.

Students tend to procrastinate when they’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed.

But you might be surprised to discover that simply by writing down the specific tasks you’re putting off, the situation will feel more manageable.

It’s a quick solution, and it makes a real difference.

Give it a try and you’ll be less likely to procrastinate.

4. Put your homework on your desk.

Here’s an even simpler idea.

Many times, the hardest part of getting your homework done is getting started.

It doesn’t require a lot of willpower to take out your homework and put it on your desk.

But once it’s sitting there in front of you, you’ll be much closer to actually getting down to work.

5. Break down the task into smaller steps.

This one trick will make any task seem more manageable.

For example, if you have a history report to write, you could break it down into the following steps:

• Read the history textbook
• Do online research
• Organize the information
• Create an outline
• Write the introduction
• Write the body paragraphs
• Write the conclusion
• Edit and proofread the report

Focus on just one step at a time. This way, you won’t need to motivate yourself to write the whole report at one go.

This is an important technique to use if you want to study smart and get more done .

6. Create a detailed timeline with specific deadlines.

As a follow-up to Point #5, you can further combat procrastination by creating a timeline with specific deadlines.

Using the same example above, I’ve added deadlines to each of the steps:

• Jan 30 th : Read the history textbook
• Feb 2 nd : Do online research
• Feb 3 rd : Organize the information
• Feb 5 th : Create an outline
• Feb 8 th : Write the introduction
• Feb 12 th : Write the body paragraphs
• Feb 14 th : Write the conclusion
• Feb 16 th : Edit and proofread the report

Assigning specific dates creates a sense of urgency, which makes it more likely that you’ll keep to the deadlines.

7. Spend time with people who are focused and hardworking.

Jim Rohn famously said that you’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.

If you hang out with people who are motivated and hardworking, you’ll become more like them.

Likewise, if you hang out with people who continually procrastinate, you’ll become more like them too.

Motivation to do homework naturally increases when you surround yourself with the right people.

So choose your friends wisely. Find homework buddies who will influence you positively to become a straight-A student who leads a balanced life.

That doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun! It just means that you and your friends know when it’s time to get down to work and when it’s time to enjoy yourselves.

8. Tell at least two or three people about the tasks you plan to complete.

When you tell others about the tasks you intend to finish, you’ll be more likely to follow through with your plans.

This is called “accountability,” and it kicks in because you want to be seen as someone who keeps your word.

So if you know about this principle, why not use it to your advantage?

You could even ask a friend to be your accountability buddy. At the beginning of each day, you could text each other what you plan to work on that day.

Then at the end of the day, you could check in with each other to see if things went according to plan.

9. Change your environment .

Maybe it’s your environment that’s making you feel sluggish.

When you’re doing your homework, is your super-comfortable bed just two steps away? Or is your distracting computer within easy reach?

If your environment is part of your procrastination problem, then change it.

Sometimes all you need is a simple change of scenery. Bring your work to the dining room table and get it done there. Or head to a nearby café to complete your report.

10. Talk to people who have overcome their procrastination problem.

If you have friends who consistently win the battle with procrastination, learn from their experience.

What was the turning point for them? What tips and strategies do they use? What keeps them motivated?

Find all this out, and then apply the information to your own situation.

11. Decide on a reward to give yourself after you complete your task.

“Planned” rewards are a great way to motivate yourself to do your homework.

The reward doesn’t have to be something huge.

For instance, you might decide that after you finish 10 questions of your math homework, you get to watch your favorite TV show.

Or you might decide that after reading one chapter of your history textbook, you get to spend 10 minutes on Facebook.

By giving yourself a reward, you’ll feel more motivated to get through the task at hand.

12. Decide on a consequence you’ll impose on yourself if you don’t meet the deadline.

It’s important that you decide on what the consequence will be before you start working toward your goal.

As an example, you could tell your younger brother that you’ll give him $1 for every deadline you don’t meet (see Point #6).

Or you could decide that you’ll delete one game from your phone for every late homework submission.

Those consequences would probably be painful enough to help you get down to work, right?

13. Visualize success.

Take 30 seconds and imagine how you’ll feel when you finish your work.

What positive emotions will you experience?

Will you feel a sense of satisfaction from getting all your work done?

Will you relish the extra time on your hands when you get your homework done fast and ahead of time?

This simple exercise of visualizing success may be enough to inspire you to start doing your assignment.

14. Visualize the process it will take to achieve that success.

Even more important than visualizing the outcome is visualizing the process it will take to achieve that outcome.

Research shows that focusing on the process is critical to success. If you’re procrastinating on a task, take a few moments to think about what you’ll need to do to complete it.

Visualize the following:

• What resources you’ll need
• Who you can turn to for help
• How long the task will take
• Where you’ll work on the task
• The joy you’ll experience as you make progress

This kind of visualization is like practice for your mind.

Once you understand what’s necessary to achieve your goal, you’ll find that it’s much easier to get down to work with real focus. This is key to doing well in school .

15. Write down why you want to complete the task.

You’ll be more motivated when you’re clear about why you want to accomplish something.

To motivate yourself to do your homework, think about all the ways in which it’s a meaningful task.

So take a couple of minutes to write down the reasons. Here are some possible ones:

• Learn useful information
• Master the topic
• Enjoy a sense of accomplishment when you’ve completed the task
• Become a more focused student
• Learn to embrace challenges
• Fulfill your responsibility as a student
• Get a good grade on the assignment

16. Write down the negative feelings you’ll have if you don’t complete the task.

If you don’t complete the assignment, you might feel disappointed or discouraged. You might even feel as if you’ve let your parents or your teacher – or even yourself – down.

It isn’t wise to dwell on these negative emotions for too long. But by imagining how you’ll feel if you don’t finish the task, you’ll realize how important it is that you get to work.

17. Do the hardest task first.

Most students will choose to do the easiest task first, rather than the hardest one. But this approach isn’t effective because it leaves the worst for last.

It’s more difficult to find motivation to do homework in less enjoyable subjects.

As Brian Tracy says , “Eat that frog!” By this, he means that you should always get your most difficult task out of the way at the beginning of the day.

If math is your least favorite subject, force yourself to complete your math homework first.

After doing so, you’ll feel a surge of motivation from knowing it’s finished. And you won’t procrastinate on your other homework because it will seem easier in comparison.

(On a separate note, check out these tips on how to get better at math if you’re struggling.)

18. Set a timer when doing your homework.

I recommend that you use a stopwatch for every homework session. (If you prefer, you could also use this online stopwatch or the Tomato Timer .)

Start the timer at the beginning of the session, and work in 30- to 45-minute blocks.

Using a timer creates a sense of urgency, which will help you fight off your urge to procrastinate.

When you know you only have to work for a short session, it will be easier to find motivation to complete your homework.

Tell yourself that you need to work hard until the timer goes off, and then you can take a break. (And then be sure to take that break!)

19. Eliminate distractions.

Here are some suggestions on how you can do this:

• Delete all the games and social media apps on your phone
• Turn off all notifications on your phone
• Mute your group chats
• Archive your inactive chats
• Turn off your phone, or put it on airplane mode
• Put your phone at least 10 feet away from you
• Turn off the Internet access on your computer
• Use an app like Freedom to restrict your Internet usage
• Put any other distractions (like food, magazines and books unrelated to your homework) at the other end of the room
• Unplug the TV
• Use earplugs if your surroundings are noisy

20. At the start of each day, write down the two to three Most Important Tasks (MITs) you want to accomplish.

This will enable you to prioritize your tasks. As Josh Kaufman explains , a Most Important Task (MIT) is a critical task that will help you to get significant results down the road.

Not all tasks are equally important. That’s why it’s vital that you identify your MITs, so that you can complete those as early in the day as possible.

What do you most need to get done today? That’s an MIT.

Get to work on it, then feel the satisfaction that comes from knowing it’s out of the way.

21. Focus on progress instead of perfection.

Perfectionism can destroy your motivation to do homework and keep you from starting important assignments.

Some students procrastinate because they’re waiting for the perfect time to start.

Others do so because they want to get their homework done perfectly. But they know this isn’t really possible – so they put off even getting started.

What’s the solution?

To focus on progress instead of perfection.

There’s never a perfect time for anything. Nor will you ever be able to complete your homework perfectly. But you can do your best, and that’s enough.

So concentrate on learning and improving, and turn this into a habit that you implement whenever you study .

22. Get organized.

Procrastination is common among students who are disorganized.

When you can’t remember which assignment is due when or which tests you have coming up, you’ll naturally feel confused. You’ll experience school- and test-related stress .

This, in turn, will lead to procrastination.

That’s why it’s crucial that you get organized. Here are some tips for doing this:

• Don’t rely on your memory ; write everything down
• Keep a to-do list
• Use a student planner
• Use a calendar and take note of important dates like exams, project due dates, school holidays , birthdays, and family events
• At the end of each day, plan for the following day
• Use one binder or folder for each subject or course
• Do weekly filing of your loose papers, notes, and old homework
• Throw away all the papers and notes you no longer need

23. Stop saying “I have to” and start saying “I choose to.”

When you say things like “I have to write my essay” or “I have to finish my science assignment,” you’ll probably feel annoyed. You might be tempted to complain about your teachers or your school .

What’s the alternative?

To use the phrase “I choose to.”

The truth is, you don’t “have” to do anything.

You can choose not to write your essay; you’ll just run the risk of failing the class.

You can choose not to do your science assignment; you’ll just need to deal with your angry teacher.

When you say “I choose to do my homework,” you’ll feel empowered. This means you’ll be more motivated to study and to do what you ought to.

24. Clear your desk once a week.

Clutter can be demotivating. It also causes stress , which is often at the root of procrastination.

Hard to believe? Give it a try and see for yourself.

By clearing your desk, you’ll reduce stress and make your workspace more organized.

So set a recurring appointment to organize your workspace once a week for just 10 minutes. You’ll receive huge benefits in the long run!

25. If a task takes two minutes or less to complete, do it now.

This is a principle from David Allen’s bestselling book, Getting Things Done .

You may notice that you tend to procrastinate when many tasks pile up. The way to prevent this from happening is to take care of the small but important tasks as soon as you have time.

Here are some examples of small two-minute tasks that you should do once you have a chance:

• Replying to your project group member’s email
• Picking up anything on the floor that doesn’t belong there
• Asking your parents to sign a consent form
• Filing a graded assignment
• Making a quick phone call
• Writing a checklist
• Sending a text to schedule a meeting
• Making an online purchase that doesn’t require further research

26. Finish one task before starting on the next.

You aren’t being productive when you switch between working on your literature essay, social studies report, and physics problem set – while also intermittently checking your phone.

Research shows that multitasking is less effective than doing one thing at a time. Multitasking may even damage your brain !

When it comes to overcoming procrastination, it’s better to stick with one task all the way through before starting on the next one.

You’ll get a sense of accomplishment when you finish the first assignment, which will give you a boost of inspiration as you move on to the next one.

27. Build your focus gradually.

You can’t win the battle against procrastination overnight; it takes time. This means that you need to build your focus progressively.

If you can only focus for 10 minutes at once, that’s fine. Start with three sessions of 10 minutes a day. After a week, increase it to three sessions of 15 minutes a day, and so on.

As the weeks go by, you’ll become far more focused than when you first started. And you’ll soon see how great that makes you feel.

28. Before you start work, write down three things you’re thankful for.

Gratitude improves your psychological health and increases your mental strength .

These factors are linked to motivation. The more you practice gratitude, the easier it will be to find motivation to do your homework. As such, it’s less likely that you’ll be a serial procrastinator.

Before you get down to work for the day, write down three things you’re thankful for. These could be simple things like good health, fine weather, or a loving family.

You could even do this in a “gratitude journal,” which you can then look back on whenever you need a shot of fresh appreciation for the good things in your life.

Either way, this short exercise will get you in the right mindset to be productive.

29. Get enough sleep.

For most people, this means getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night. And teenagers need 8 to 10 hours of sleep a night to function optimally.

What does sleep have to do with procrastination?

More than you might realize.

It’s almost impossible to feel motivated when you’re tired. And when you’re low on energy, your willpower is depleted too.

That’s why you give in to the temptation of Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube videos more easily when you’re sleep-deprived.

Here are ways to get more sleep , and sleep better too:

• Create a bedtime routine
• Go to sleep at around the same time every night
• Set a daily alarm as a reminder to go to bed
• Exercise regularly (but not within a few hours of bedtime)
• Make your bedroom as dark as possible
• Remove or switch off all electronic devices before bedtime
• Avoid caffeine at least six hours before bedtime
• Use an eye mask and earplugs

30. Schedule appointments with yourself to complete your homework.

These appointments are specific blocks of time reserved for working on a report, assignment, or project. Scheduling appointments is effective because it makes the task more “official,” so you’re more likely to keep the appointment.

For example, you could schedule appointments such as:

• Jan 25 th , 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm: Math assignment
• Jan 27 th , 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Online research for social studies project
• Jan 28 th , 4:30 pm – 5:00 pm: Write introduction for English essay

Transform homework procrastination into homework motivation

Procrastination is a problem we all face.

But given that you’ve read all the way to here, I know you’re committed to overcoming this problem.

And now that you’re armed with these tips, you have all the tools you need to become more disciplined and focused .

By the way, please don’t feel as if you need to implement all the tips at once, because that would be too overwhelming.

Instead, I recommend that you focus on just a couple of tips a week, and make gradual progress. No rush!

Over time, you’ll realize that your habit of procrastination has been replaced by the habit of getting things done.

Now’s the time to get started on that process of transformation. 🙂

Like this article? Please share it with your friends.

Images: Student and books , Homework , Group of students , Consequences , Why , Writing a list , Organized desk , Gratitude

January 19, 2016 at 11:53 am

Ur tips are rlly helpful. Thnkyou ! 🙂

January 19, 2016 at 1:43 pm

You’re welcome 🙂

August 29, 2018 at 11:21 am

Thanks very much

February 19, 2019 at 1:38 pm

The funny thing is while I was reading the first few steps of this article I was procrastinating on my homework….

November 12, 2019 at 12:44 pm

same here! but now I actually want to get my stuff done… huh

December 4, 2022 at 11:35 pm

May 30, 2023 at 6:26 am

October 25, 2023 at 11:35 am

fr tho i totally was but now I’m actually going to get started haha

June 6, 2020 at 6:04 am

I love your articles

January 21, 2016 at 7:07 pm

Thanks soo much. It’s almost like you could read my mind- when I felt so overwhelmed with the workload heap I had created for myself by procrastination, I know feel very motivated to tackle it out completely and replace that bad habit with the wonderful tips mentioned here! 🙂

January 21, 2016 at 8:04 pm

I’m glad to help 🙂

January 25, 2016 at 3:09 pm

You have shared great tips here. I especially like the point “Write down why you want to complete the task” because it is helpful to make us more motivated when we are clear about our goals

January 25, 2016 at 4:51 pm

Glad that you found the tips useful, John!

January 29, 2016 at 1:22 am

Thank you very much for your wonderful tips!!! ☺☺☺

January 29, 2016 at 10:41 am

It’s my joy to help, Kabir 🙂

February 3, 2016 at 12:57 pm

Always love your articles. Keep them up 🙂

February 3, 2016 at 1:21 pm

Thanks, Matthew 🙂

February 4, 2016 at 1:40 pm

There are quite a lot of things that you need to do in order to come out with flying colors while studying in a university away from your homeland. Procrastinating on homework is one of the major mistakes committed by students and these tips will help you to avoid them all and make yourself more efficient during your student life.

February 4, 2016 at 1:58 pm

Completely agreed, Leong Siew.

October 5, 2018 at 12:52 am

Wow! thank you very much, I love it .

November 2, 2018 at 10:45 am

You are helping me a lot.. thank you very much….😊

November 6, 2018 at 5:19 pm

I’m procrastinating by reading this

November 29, 2018 at 10:21 am

January 8, 2021 at 3:38 am

March 3, 2019 at 9:12 am

Daniel, your amazing information and advice, has been very useful! Please keep up your excellent work!

April 12, 2019 at 11:12 am

We should stop procrastinating.

September 28, 2019 at 5:19 pm

Thank you so much for the tips:) i’ve been procrastinating since i started high schools and my grades were really bad “F” but the tips have made me a straight A student again.

January 23, 2020 at 7:43 pm

Thanks for the tips, Daniel! They’re really useful! 😁

April 10, 2020 at 2:15 pm

I have always stood first in my class. But procrastination has always been a very bad habit of mine which is why I lost marks for late submission .As an excuse for finding motivation for studying I would spend hours on the phone and I would eventually procrastinate. So I tried your tips and tricks today and they really worked.i am so glad and thankful for your help. 🇮🇳Love from India🇮🇳

April 15, 2020 at 11:16 am

Well I’m gonna give this a shot it looks and sounds very helpful thank you guys I really needed this

April 16, 2020 at 9:48 pm

Daniel, your amazing information and advice, has been very useful! keep up your excellent work! May you give more useful content to us.

May 6, 2020 at 5:03 pm

nice article thanks for your sharing.

May 20, 2020 at 4:49 am

Thank you so much this helped me so much but I was wondering about like what if you just like being lazy and stuff and don’t feel like doing anything and you don’t want to tell anyone because you might annoy them and you just don’t want to add your problems and put another burden on theirs

July 12, 2020 at 1:55 am

I’ve read many short procrastination tip articles and always thought they were stupid or overlooking the actual problem. ‘do this and this’ or that and that, and I sit there thinking I CAN’T. This article had some nice original tips that I actually followed and really did make me feel a bit better. Cheers, diving into what will probably be a 3 hour case study.

August 22, 2020 at 10:14 pm

Nicely explain each tips and those are practical thanks for sharing. Dr.Achyut More

November 11, 2020 at 12:34 pm

Thanks a lot! It was very helpful!

November 15, 2020 at 9:11 am

I keep catching myself procrastinating today. I started reading this yesterday, but then I realized I was procrastinating, so I stopped to finish it today. Thank you for all the great tips.

November 30, 2020 at 5:15 pm

Woow this is so great. Thanks so much Daniel

December 3, 2020 at 3:13 am

These tips were very helpful!

December 18, 2020 at 11:54 am

Procrastination is a major problem of mine, and this, this is very helpful. It is very motivational, now I think I can complete my work.

December 28, 2020 at 2:44 pm

Daniel Wong: When you’re doing your homework, is your super-comfortable bed just two steps away? Me: Nope, my super-comfortable bed is one step away. (But I seriously can’t study anywhere else. If I go to the dining table, my mum would be right in front of me talking loudly on the phone with colleagues and other rooms is an absolute no. My mum doesn’t allow me to go outside. Please give me some suggestions. )

September 19, 2022 at 12:14 pm

I would try and find some noise cancelling headphones to play some classical music or get some earbuds to ignore you mum lol

March 1, 2021 at 5:46 pm

Thank you very much. I highly appreciate it.

May 12, 2023 at 3:38 am

This is great advice. My little niece is now six years old and I like to use those nice cheap child friendly workbooks with her. This is done in order to help her to learn things completely on her own. I however prefer to test her on her own knowledge however. After a rather quick demonstration in the lesson I then tend to give her two simple questions to start off with. And it works a treat. Seriously. I love it. She loves it. The exam questions are for her to answer on her own on a notepad. If she can, she will receive a gold medal and a box of sweets. If not she only gets a plastic toy. We do this all the time to help her understand. Once a week we spend up to thirty minutes in a math lesson on this technique for recalling the basic facts. I have had a lot of great success with this new age technique. So I’m going to carry on with it for now.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Published on September 15, 2022
• September 15, 2022

How to Focus on Homework and Actually Get Things Done: 12 Hacks for Busy Students

Jump to section

Chances are, you’ve had some days when you felt overwhelmed after a long day at school. You couldn’t imagine doing anything other than plopping down in front of the television, let alone finding out how to focus on your homework. 

How can you overcome the resistance and get it done? How do you get your mind to include this task in your day as well?

With just a few adjustments, you will be able to expand your capacity to concentrate.

Why Can’t I Focus on My Homework?

Countless factors constantly fight for your attention : social media, people, overthinking, and anxiety. All of this can make you feel as though you have little control over your mind. 

If you want to start to focus better on your homework, you’ll need to set your mind up for success. Remove all distractions .

Here are two key principles that can help you be more successful in your studies:

1. Identify the distractions in your surroundings

What are the things in your daily life that take your mind away from your studies? Clearly identifying these distractions can help you understand both the problem and what causes it.

Among our environmental distractions, digital distractions are one of the worst kinds, and according to a number of studies , their effect is on the rise in the classroom.

If you’re looking to gain more concentration and, thus, form better study habits, question your online behavior first and foremost.

2. Limit the use of technology to find focus

What’s the role of social media in your daily life? Have you ever sat down to calculate how social media distracts you from doing the things you should be doing?

When you are wondering how to focus on homework long after you’ve put your phone away, you’re still thinking about the last posts you saw on Instagram. The sound of new notifications can be enough to reroute our attention from the task at hand.

And then comes the information overload, the fear of missing out, and the all-too-common signs of addictive behavior. Technology is affecting your mind more than ever, and it’s taking your focus away.

How to Focus on Homework: 12 Things You Can Do to Be More Indistractible

Here are 12 tips on how to stay focused while completing your homework, taught by superbrain coach Jim Kwik and habit transformation expert Nir Eyal .

• Make a routine
• Set up a study-friendly environment
• Avoid heavy meals
• Organize your study notes
• Tell others to stay away
• Listen to study music
• Set deadlines
• Take brain breaks
• Use discomfort as motivation for productivity
• Use time blocking
• Let go of thoughts that distract you
• Reimagine your task

Let’s look at each study hack in more detail.

1. Make a routine

Routines help you be productive without exerting as much effort. When you have homework to do, a study routine can be the reason you actually sit down, set enough time aside, concentrate, and stay focused until you complete the project.

This process doesn’t need to be complicated: just tell yourself that you will sit at your desk at home once you’re back from school. Put your phone on silent, make an outline of the work that needs to get done, and simply begin with what’s most important.

2. Set up a study-friendly environment

A place for everything and everything in its place. That applies to studying, too.

Lying in bed with your notebook is considered a distraction, as is being in the living room with your laptop while others are doing their activities.

You need an isolated place when you decide to focus on your homework. Make it feel comfortable, keep it organized, keep it clean, and consider putting up some motivational posters or positive affirmations .

3. Avoid heavy meals

It’s not advisable to have a big meal beforehand. Big meals can ruin your focus and make you feel sluggish and lazy because it takes a big amount of time and energy for your body to digest. A snack is okay.

There are also some foods , though, that are just plain bad for your productivity. For example, soda, candy, and fried foods are all full of sugar and have no nutritional value. They make your insulin spike up, but then it crashes very fast, which makes you feel depleted of energy.

4. Organize your study notes

Prioritize your work. Keep lists and place the most important items on top. Then work on the items that you should get done first.

It helps to outline what you need to do, breaking it down into smaller, more manageable steps. Use colors to highlight the essentials . 

This makes it all look much simpler and you’re more likely to actually get started. The brain loves organization and it won’t be so likely to procrastinate when it knows you have a structure set in place.

5. Tell others to stay away

Don’t be afraid to let others know that you’re studying and require some time and space to get your work done. Decide on fixed hours for studying and tell your friends and family members that you won’t be available during that time of the day.

If others respect your study time, you’ll be more inclined to respect it as well. 

6. Listen to study music

There are many tracks out there designed to help your mind focus. Whether you use binaural beats or just instrumental music, the right sounds can really help to tune your brain into a productive frequency.

This meditation is also great to listen to; it puts your mind in a clear, concise, and ready-to-take-on-the-world mode:

7. Set deadlines

Even if your teacher has already given you deadlines for each assignment, set new ones yourself at earlier dates.

This helps you build discipline, learn how to focus on studying, and prioritize every day.

8. Take brain breaks

Frequent breaks actually increase your productivity and focus. You’ll see that after each study session, the brain needs to be engaged with something different —  you need to activate other parts of your brain before going back to your studies so that you can reach top performance.

You can also use the Superbrain Yoga Technique. In the Superbrain Quest, Jim talks about implementing it during your breaks. It goes as follows:

• Massage the left lobe of your ear with your right hand, and the right one with your left hand
• Inhale and squat down
• Exhale and come back up while continuing massaging your opposite ear with the opposite hand
• Keep going for a few minutes

As your body moves, your brain grooves. — Jim Kwik, trainer of Mindvalley’s Superbrain Quest

9. Use discomfort as motivation for productivity

The brain is wired to protect us from danger, and our ancestors needed this function of the psyche to survive. Discomfort is associated with danger, and whenever they felt it, they knew it was time to run away or protect themselves in one way or another.

In today’s world, danger isn’t so imminent. However, discomfort is, and the brain still works to protect us in the same way. 

So why not use it to your advantage?

Once you have this mindset shift, you can see the discomfort that comes with doing your homework as fuel for moving forward, from pain to pleasure. So instead of procrastinating and avoiding the discomfort, just use it as motivation to get things done.

And maybe you can even save yourself a fun activity to do later in the day, so you have something to look forward to.

10. Use time blocking

You can use time blocking and set a specific amount of time for parts of your homework that needs to be done. For example, you block 30 minutes of reading, then another 30 minutes of writing down highlights from the text. 

This method will give you more structure and support you when you need to focus on school work, as you will have a dedicated structured time to do so.

11. Let go of thoughts that distract you

When you need more concentration, but your thoughts keep getting in the way, here’s a fun visualization exercise you can use:

• Before you start working on your homework, close down your eyes and imagine a flowing river in front of you. 
• Now, place every thought on a leaf and let it run down the river while watching it move away from you. 

Do this repeatedly for 5-10 minutes and see how your mind becomes clearer, more productive, and more inspired.

12. Reimagine your task

How can you make the process of doing your homework more fun? Is there any way you can think of to make it more exciting and engaging?

As you introduce play and fun into any task, your capacity to stay focused will increase. So just try out different methods to engage more in your homework. 

For example, what if you made a trivia quest about your history lesson homework? Or what about riddles to make you remember all the characters from the novel you have to read? 

Once you play around with these kinds of games, you might find that focusing on your homework isn’t as boring as you thought it would be.

Unleash the Power of Your Focus

Discovering how to focus on your homework can go beyond schoolwork and actually support you in many other activities you want to do. Concentration is one of the best skills to nurture for your growth.

If you need a little guidance at the beginning of your focusing journey, Mindvalley has it in store for you. 

By unlocking your FREE Mindvalley access , you can check out sample classes from quests that help you develop better focus and study habits, such as Becoming Focused and Indistractable by Nir Eyal and Superbrain by Jim Kwik. You can also immerse yourself in beautiful sounds and guided meditations designed to improve concentration and help you enter the flow state.

The earlier you start, the greater your journey of self-discovery will be. Welcome in.

— Images generated on Midjourney.

Recommended free masterclass for you

Discover Powerful Hacks to Unlock Your Superbrain to Learn Faster, Comprehend More and Forget Less

Join the foremost expert in memory improvement and brain performance, Jim Kwik, in a free masterclass that will dive into the one skill you will ever need — learning how to learn Enroll for free

Alexandra Tudor

Jim Kwik is a brain coach and a world expert in speed reading, memory improvement, and optimal brain performance. Known as the “boy with the broken brain” due to a childhood injury, Jim discovered strategies to dramatically enhance his mental performance. He is now committed to helping people improve their memory, learn to speed-read, increase their decision-making skills, and turn on their superbrain.

He has shared his techniques with Hollywood actors, Fortune 500 companies, and trailblazing entrepreneurs like Elon Musk and Richard Branson to reach their highest level of mental performance. He is also one of the most sought-after trainers for top organizations like Harvard University, Nike, Virgin, and GE.

How we reviewed this article

Study: digital distraction in class is on the rise, you might also like.

Get Started

• Try Mindvalley for Free
• Free Masterclasses
• Coaching Certifications
• Vishen Lakhiani
• The Mindvalley Show
• Partnerships
• In English 🇺🇸
• En Español 🇪🇸
• Editorial Standards
• © 2024 Mindvalley, Inc.
• English (EN)

Fact-Checking: Our Process

Mindvalley is committed to providing reliable and trustworthy content. 

We rely heavily on evidence-based sources, including peer-reviewed studies and insights from recognized experts in various personal growth fields. Our goal is to keep the information we share both current and factual. 

The Mindvalley fact-checking guidelines are based on:

• Content Foundation: Our articles build upon Mindvalley’s quest content, which are meticulously crafted and vetted by industry experts to ensure foundational credibility and reliability.
• Research and Sources: Our team delves into credible research, ensuring every piece is grounded in facts and evidence, offering a holistic view on personal growth topics.
• Continuous Updates: In the dynamic landscape of personal development, we are committed to keeping our content fresh. We often revisit and update our resources to stay abreast of the latest developments.
• External Contributions: We welcome insights from external contributors who share our passion for personal transformation and consciousness elevation.
• Product Recommendations and Affiliations: Recommendations come after thoughtful consideration and alignment with Mindvalley’s ethos, grounded in ethical choices.

To learn more about our dedication to reliable reporting, you can read our detailed editorial standards .

• [email protected]
• 888.MyEdNav
• 1033 South Blvd, Oak Park, IL 60302, United States

7 Ways to Take the Hassle Out of Homework

Homework can feel like a huge drag. Here’s what you need to know about how to make homework less painful and more useful.

Here are our top seven:

Help them get organized..

Encourage students to track their homework tasks by using a paper or digital planner, and help them set up a system for storing what’s been completed and what still needs to be done.

Make it part of the routine.

Try to make homework happen at a consistent time each day , like during an after-school program, right after getting home, or immediately after dinner. Aim for a 30-60 minute block when they’ve had some time to relax but aren’t too tired. You may want to consider allowing older kids to decide for themselves when they want to do their homework—but be clear that it needs to be done by a certain time every day. Once the routine is set, try not to nag. Communicate that it’s their job to get their homework done.

Create a consistent homework space.

Ideally, this should be somewhere quiet and well-lit, where you can check in with your child easily. Try to minimize the need for students to have to get out of their chair. If you use your kitchen table, pick up an organizer caddy that can house homework supplies and be easily pulled out and stored away.

Reduce distractions.

Emphasize that homework time is a time for being quiet and focused. You can model good behavior by setting the expectation that loud music, TV, and video games are off limits for everyone (including yourself!) in the homework zone. If one child finishes before others, give them the option to read, draw or play quietly somewhere out of sight.

Be a coach, not a player.

Does a coach go onto the field and start scoring goals? Then why are you holding the pencil? Your role is to monitor and motivate, not do the work yourself. In fact, there’s some evidence that helping kids with their homework doesn’t actually do any good . When they get stuck, encourage them to think through ways of solving the problem on their own, for example by exploring online resources or writing down questions to ask their teacher. Avoid the urge to try to teach them yourself, especially if you’re not sure either. If it seems like they’re often confused or frustrated, it’s time for a talk with the teacher.

Build in breaks.

Keep an eye on how long it takes your child to complete their homework. The amount they should have depends on their age and grade level. For longer stretches, ensure students take brain breaks to get the blood flowing and increase alertness. For high school, every 30-45 minutes of studying should be followed by a 10-15-minute break. For elementary, every 15-30 minutes should be followed by a 5-10-minute break. Set a timer, if that helps them stay motivated.

Keep the high fives coming

Finally, remember that a little praise goes a long way. Give your kids regular props—and yes, maybe even the occasional reward —for hard work and making progress!

National PTA Parents' Guide to Success

The National PTA offers these year-by-year guides to help parents understand what their kids should be working on in school.

Khan Academy

Free, high-quality online courses on just about everything, from 2nd grade math and reading to AP Calculus and internet safety. What's not to love?

Don’t miss a beat.

Sign up for our email list to get timely resources and early access to new content.

Related Resources

What parents need to know about absences, how to raise a kid who loves learning, 4 questions to ask at your parent-teacher conference, how to tell if your child is failing in school, get the guide by email.

You’ll get early access to our newest resources, timely tips on how to support your child, and more!

10 Ideas – How to do Homework when Tired?

Being a student is tough. You have to juggle many different balls, and sometimes it can feel like you’re never going to get everything done. One of the things that can suffer when you’re feeling overwhelmed is your homework.

Table of Contents

1. Get organized

Getting organized is the first step to doing your homework when you’re tired. This means having a plan and knowing what you need to do. Break your homework down into smaller tasks that you can tackle one at a time. This will make the process seem less daunting and easier to start.

2. Set a timer

3. get comfortable.

The first step to being able to do homework when tired is to get comfortable. This means finding a comfortable place to sit or lie down, ensuring enough light to see, and having all the materials you need within easy reach. Once you are physically comfortable, focusing on the task at hand will be easier.

4. Take breaks

5. create a homework routine.

One of the best ways to ensure you do your homework even when you’re tired is to create a homework routine. Decide on a time each day to sit down and do your work, and stick to it as much as possible. This will help your body and mind get into a “homework mode” and make it easier to focus.

6. Listen to music

7. limit distractions, 8. work in short bursts.

If you’re finding it hard to focus on homework for long periods, try working in short bursts instead. Set a timer for 30 minutes and work on your assignment until the timer goes off. Then take a 5-10 minute break before starting again.

9. Get enough sleep

The occasional all-nighter may be necessary, but try to avoid making it a habit. Ensure you have a proper sleep schedule to help you be at your best daily.

10. Talk to your teacher

Should i be worried if i can’t focus on my homework.

If you’re finding it hard to focus on your homework, you must talk to your teacher or tutor. They can help you figure out a plan to get your work done. You should only be worried if you’re not trying to do your homework.

I’m Exhausted, But I Have A Test Tomorrow. What Should I Do?

Once you’re feeling refreshed, start by reviewing your notes from class. If you have any questions, ask a friend or your teacher. Next, take some practice tests. There are many online, or you can make your own. Finally, get a good night’s sleep!

Does Listening To Music Help When Doing Homework?

How can i make sure i’m not working too much, what if i have trouble understanding the material.

Talk to your teacher or tutor if you’re having trouble understanding the material. They can help explain the concepts differently or give you some tips on how to study the material. You can also try looking up videos or articles about the topic. Sometimes seeing the material in a different format can help you understand it better. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends or family.

Share this:

Because differences are our greatest strength

Homework anxiety: Why it happens and how to help

By Gail Belsky

Expert reviewed by Jerome Schultz, PhD

Quick tips to help kids with homework anxiety

Quick tip 1, try self-calming strategies..

Try some deep breathing, gentle stretching, or a short walk before starting homework. These strategies can help reset the mind and relieve anxiety. 

Quick tip 2

Set a time limit..

Give kids a set amount of time for homework to help it feel more manageable. Try using the “10-minute rule” that many schools use — that’s 10 minutes of homework per grade level. And let kids know it’s OK to stop working for the night.

Quick tip 3

Cut out distractions..

Have kids do homework in a quiet area. Turn off the TV, silence cell phones, and, if possible, limit people coming and going in the room or around the space.

Quick tip 4

Start with the easiest task..

Try having kids do the easiest, quickest assignments first. That way, they’ll feel good about getting a task done — and may be less anxious about the rest of the homework.

Quick tip 5

Use a calm voice..

When kids feel anxious about homework, they might get angry, yell, or cry. Avoid matching their tone of voice. Take a deep breath and keep your voice steady and calm. Let them know you’re there for them. 

Sometimes kids just don’t want to do homework. They complain, procrastinate, or rush through the work so they can do something fun. But for other kids, it’s not so simple. Homework may actually give them anxiety.

It’s not always easy to know when kids have homework anxiety. Some kids may share what they’re feeling when you ask. But others can’t yet identify what they’re feeling, or they're not willing to talk about it.

Homework anxiety often starts in early grade school. It can affect any child. But it’s an especially big issue for kids who are struggling in school. They may think they can’t do the work. Or they may not have the right support to get it done. 

Keep in mind that some kids may seem anxious about homework but are actually anxious about something else. That’s why it’s important to keep track of when kids get anxious and what they were doing right before. The more you notice what’s happening, the better you can help.

Dive deeper

What homework anxiety looks like.

Kids with homework anxiety might:

Find excuses to avoid homework

Lie about homework being done

Get consistently angry about homework

Be moody or grumpy after school

Complain about not feeling well after school or before homework time

Cry easily or seem overly sensitive

Be afraid of making even small mistakes

Shut down and not want to talk after school

Say “I can’t do it!” before even trying

Learn about other homework challenges kids might be facing . 

Why kids get homework anxiety

Kids with homework anxiety are often struggling with a specific skill. They might worry about falling behind their classmates. But there are other factors that cause homework anxiety: 

Test prep: Homework that helps kids prepare for a test makes it sound very important. This can raise stress levels.

Perfectionism: Some kids who do really well in a subject may worry that their work “won’t be good enough.”

Trouble managing emotions: For kids who easily get flooded by emotions, homework can be a trigger for anxiety. 

Too much homework: Sometimes kids are anxious because they have more work than they can handle.

Use this list to see if kids might have too much homework .

When kids are having homework anxiety, families, educators, and health care providers should work together to understand what’s happening. Start by sharing notes on what you’re seeing and look for patterns . By working together, you’ll develop a clearer sense of what’s going on and how to help.

Parents and caregivers: Start by asking questions to get your child to open up about school . But if kids are struggling with the work itself, they may not want to tell you. You’ll need to talk with your child’s teacher to get insight into what’s happening in school and find out if your child needs help in a specific area.

Explore related topics

• Mattress Education Mattress Sizes Mattress Types Choosing the Best Mattress Replacing a Mattress Caring for a Mattress Mattress Disposal Mattress Accessories Adjustable Beds Mattress Sizes Mattress Types Choosing the Best Mattress Replacing a Mattress Caring for a Mattress Mattress Disposal Mattress Accessories Adjustable Beds
• Better Sleep Sleep Positions Better Sleep Guide How to Sleep Better Tips for Surviving Daylight Saving Time The Ideal Bedroom Survey: Relationships & Sleep Children & Sleep Sleep Myths
• Resources Blog Research Press Releases
• Extras The Science of Sleep Stages of Sleep Sleep Disorders Sleep Safety Consequences of Poor Sleep Bedroom Evolution History of the Mattress

• December 12, 2018

Teens, Sleep and Homework Survey Results

Better sleep council research finds that too much homework can actually hurt teens' performance in school.

• Press Releases

ALEXANDRIA, Va. , Dec. 11, 2018 – According to new research from the Better Sleep Council (BSC) – the nonprofit consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association – homework, rather than social pressure, is the number one cause of teenage stress, negatively affecting their sleep and ultimately impacting their academic performance.

American teenagers said they spend 15+ hours a week on homework, and about one-third (34%) of all teens spend 20 or more hours a week. This is more than time spent at work, school clubs, social activities and sports. When asked what causes stress in their lives, about three-quarters of teens said grades/test scores (75%) and/or homework (74%) cause stress, more than self-esteem (51%), parental expectations (45%) and even bullying (15%). In fact, according to the American Psychological Association’s Stress in America™ Survey, during the school year, teenagers say they experience stress levels higher than those reported by adults.

Further, more than half (57%) of all teenagers surveyed do not feel they get enough sleep. Seventy-nine percent reported getting 7 hours of sleep or less on a typical school night, more than two-thirds (67%) say they only get 5 to 7 hours of sleep on a school night, and only about one in five teens is getting 8 hours of sleep or more. Based on the BSC’s findings, the more stressed teenagers feel, the more likely they are to get less sleep, go to bed later and wake up earlier. They are also more likely to have trouble going to sleep and staying asleep – more often than their less-stressed peers.

“We’re finding that teenagers are experiencing this cycle where they sacrifice their sleep to spend extra time on homework, which gives them more stress – but they don’t get better grades,” said Mary Helen Rogers , vice president of marketing and communications for the Better Sleep Council. “The BSC understands the impact sleep has on teenagers’ overall development, so we can help them reduce this stress through improved sleep habits.”

The BSC recommends that teens between the ages of 13-18 get 8-10 hours of sleep per night. For teens to get the sleep their bodies need for optimal school performance, they should consider the following tips:

• Establish a consistent bedtime routine . Just like they set time aside for homework, they should schedule at least 8 hours of sleep into their daily calendars. It may be challenging in the beginning, but it will help in the long run.
• Keep it quiet in the bedroom.  It’s easier to sleep when there isn’t extra noise. Teens may even want to wear earplugs if their home is too noisy.
• Create a relaxing sleep environment. Make sure the bedroom is clutter-free, dark and conducive to great sleep. A cool bedroom, between 65 and 67 degrees , is ideal to help teens sleep.
• Cut back on screen time. Try cutting off screen time at least an hour before bed. The blue light emitted from electronics’ screens disturbs sleep.
• Examine their mattress. Since a mattress is an important component of a good night’s sleep, consider replacing it if it isn’t providing comfort and support, or hasn’t been changed in at least seven years.

Other takeaways on the relationship between homework, stress and sleep in teenagers include:

• Teens who feel more stress (89%) are more likely than less-stressed teens (65%) to say homework causes them stress in their lives.
• More than three-quarters (76%) of teens who feel more stress say they don’t feel they get enough sleep – which is significantly higher than teens who are not stressed, since only 42% of them feel they don’t get enough sleep.
• Teens who feel more stress (51%) are more likely than less-stressed teens (35%) to get to bed at 11 p.m. or later. Among these teens who are going to bed later, about 33% of them said they are waking up at 6:00 a.m. or earlier.
• Students who go to bed earlier and awaken earlier perform better academically than those who stay up late – even to do homework.

About the BSC The Better Sleep Council is the consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association, the trade association for the mattress industry. With decades invested in improving sleep quality, the BSC educates consumers on the link between sleep and health, and the role of the sleep environment, primarily through www.bettersleep.org , partner support and consumer outreach.

Related Posts

The State of America’s Sleep: COVID-19 and Sleep

The state of america’s sleep: isolation and sleep, the state of america’s sleep.

ABOUT THE BETTER SLEEP COUNCIL

• Mattress Education
• Better Sleep
• Privacy Policy
• Confidentiality Statement

• Collaboration
• Productivity
• Remote Work
• Time Management

What to Do When Your Brain Is Too Tired to Think Straight

Chess grandmasters burn up to 6,000 calories a day during tournaments, just by sitting there and thinking. when i reach a point of mental exhaustion,….

Todoist makes the world’s #1 task manager to organize your work and life. Tell me more

Chess grandmasters burn up to 6,000 calories a day during tournaments, just by sitting there and thinking.

When I reach a point of mental exhaustion, I like to reflect on that fact. Too often, our mental energy — or lack thereof — feels like a moral deficiency rather than a physical one.

If I had more willpower, I could power through and get this done. Why can’t I just focus? What’s wrong with me?!

It’s easy to forget that our brains require energy to function. We wouldn’t run a marathon and then feel like failures when our legs are tired. So why do we treat mental fatigue so differently? Our brainpower is exhaustible, but it’s 100% renewable if we manage it wisely.

Think of this article as your marathon training program for your brain. I can’t promise you’ll never feel mental fatigue but you can experience it less often, less severely, and with fewer negative consequences for your mental health and productivity.

First things first, what do we even mean when we say “mental fatigue”?

What is mental fatigue?

Mental fatigue is the feeling that your brain just won’t function right. People often describe it as brain fog. You can’t concentrate, even simple tasks take forever, and you find yourself rereading the same paragraph or tweaking the same line of code over-and-over again. Things that would have rolled off your back in the morning become more irksome and you get impatient with coworkers.

Mental fatigue can be acute or chronic. Acute fatigue is short-lived and is relieved after a brief period of rest. Most of us experience acute fatigue during an afternoon slump or at the end of a particularly hectic day. Acute fatigue is normal.

However, if left unaddressed, acute fatigue can snowball into chronic fatigue and ultimately lead to burnout. Identify the root causes of your mental fatigue and take proactive steps to manage it early on.

What causes mental fatigue?

Mental fatigue is complex and usually isn’t caused by one thing. Contributing factors can be physical— like poor nutrition, lack of sleep, or hormonal imbalances — or cognitive — you’ve been asking your brain to do too much.

That cognitive overload can take the form of intense focus on a single task over an extended period of time — as is the case for those chess grandmasters who burn 6,000 calories in a day. But it can also result from spreading your attention across too many things — all of the decisions you have to make, the information you have to process, the emails you need to answer, the tasks you need to keep track of, the chores you need to take care of. To make matters worse, worrying about a task can be as mentally taxing as actually doing it. That means even while you're procrastinating, you’re taxing your brain .

All of that cognitive task-switching takes a toll. Imagine a chess player trying to plan out their next five moves and anticipate their opponents’ reactions while also checking their Slack messages, responding to emails, thinking about what they’ll eat for lunch, catching up on the latest trending hashtags on Twitter, and worrying about that project due tomorrow that they haven’t even started yet.

It’s common sense that each additional cognitive task will fatigue the chess player’s cognitive functioning faster. Yet, that’s exactly how most of us operate on a daily basis. Mentally juggling dozens of tasks and responsibilities has become our normal . It’s no wonder we feel mentally exhausted at the end of the day!

Luckily, there are steps you can take to manage both the physical and cognitive sides of mental fatigue.

Give your brain high-quality fuel

The link between athletic performance and nutrition is obvious, but when it comes to mental performance, we don’t always make the same connection. To be clear: Your brain is fueled with the same food as your muscles! In fact, our brains are the gas-guzzling Hummers of the body’s organs using up over half of the glucose in our bloodstream. That means what you eat impacts your cognitive functioning in a big way.

There’s a lot of confusing and conflicting science out there about proper nutrition, but you don’t have to go paleo or keto or become the Sad Salad Guy at work to avoid mental fatigue in the middle of the day. Here are some basic guidelines for maintaining sufficient energy levels throughout the day without sacrificing too much:

• Cut down on refined sugars . This is one piece of nutrition advice the research can agree on. A 2019 meta-analysis of the literature , found that, while there’s no evidence of an increase in mood or cognitive functioning from eating sugar even in the short-term, sugar consumption does decrease alertness within an hour and increases fatigue within 30 minutes. In other words, the sugar rush isn’t real, but the sugar crash is. Aim for sustained energy levels throughout the day by cutting down on the amount of refined sugar you eat.
• Make a plan for what you’ll eat in advance . If you wait until you’re hungry, you’re already low on energy and willpower and are more likely to crave a quick hit of energy in the form of yummy sugar (Kit Kat anyone?).
• Don’t skip breakfast . If you usually skip breakfast and then crash in the middle of the morning, try eating a breakfast that will sustain your energy levels until lunch. More eggs, yogurt, and oatmeal. Fewer donuts, muffins, and sugary cereals. See how your body reacts.
• Snack . Try giving your body consistent fuel with mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks at a minimum. Keep lots of low-sugar, unprocessed snacks on hand – almonds, whole grain crackers and cheese, or my personal favorite, cottage cheese and apple with lots of salt.
• Stay hydrated . Studies show that even mild dehydration can negatively impact cognitive performance. Drink plenty of water – coffee doesn’t count.
• Figure out what makes you feel best . When it comes to nutrition advice, you should always be skeptical. Even the basic advice above won’t work for everyone. Some people swear by intermittent fasting, skip breakfast every day and feel great. If you’re experiencing big energy crashes in the middle of the day, try experimenting with the content and timing of your meals. Keep a log of your energy levels and see how your body reacts. In the end, only you can say for sure what makes you feel best.

When you’re exhausted the last thing you want to do is get up and move, but studies show that physical activity might be just what you need. While the causal mechanisms aren’t entirely clear, exercise has been shown to boost overall energy levels and improve cognitive functioning, immediately and over the long-term.

So how can you start powering up your brain cells with exercise?

• Start small. You don’t have to train for a marathon or join a CrossFit gym to see the benefits of exercise. At least one study has shown that low-intensity exercise — the equivalent of an easy walk — actually boosted energy more than moderate-intensity exercise. Set a goal to go for a 10-minute walk every day. Once you’re doing that consistently, slowly increase the amount of time. Make it as easy as possible to get started.
• Do it at the same time every day . When you make a plan for when you’ll do something, you’re more likely to actually do it. When you do it at the same time every day, triggered by the same events — for example, waking up, taking a lunch break, or ending the workday — it’s easier to build a consistent habit.
• Get an accountabilibuddy . Everything is easier with friends.
• Do group fitness . If you can swing it, join a gym that has a set group class schedule you have to sign up for. I find that having someone else tell you exactly what to do removes a lot of the mental effort involved in exercising. All I have to do is get my lazy butt there and the rest of the decisions are made for me. During the pandemic, most gyms are providing virtual classes which makes them even more accessible.
• Find a physical activity you enjo y. Or at least hate less than other forms of exercise. If you hate running, it’s going to be hard to stick with the habit. Try power yoga, rock climbing, surviving the zombie apocalypse , or Quidditch . Make physical activity feel like playtime and you’ll never have to exercise again.

Prioritize sleep

Sleep is the most productive thing you do all day. Period. No one really knows why we need sleep. We just know bad things happen when we don’t get enough of it.

Despite its paramount importance to your health, happiness, and productivity, sleep feels optional. Your boss holds you accountable to deadlines. Your friends expect you to show up when you say you will. Your family relies on you to get dinner on the table. But no one is holding you accountable for getting enough sleep except you.

Here are some science-backed ways to improve your quality of sleep:

• Keep it cool, dark, and quiet . Ikea has relatively cheap, acceptably attractive blackout curtains . If curtains are a no-go, get yourself a sleep mask . If you live on a busy street like myself, get yourself some earplugs . Keep your room at a comfortable temperature if you can. Between 65 and 72 degrees fahrenheit (18-22 degrees celsius) is the general recommendation, but play around with the temperature to find what’s most comfortable for you.
• No screens before bed . The blue light messes with your body’s natural clock so stop looking at screens before bedtime and ban them from your room entirely. Get an old-school alarm clock with the sole function of telling time and waking you up when you tell it to.
• Have a calming bedtime routine . The Morning Routine gets all the attention, but the less glamorous Bedtime Routine is equally important. Doing the same series of relaxing habits every night before bed signals to your body and mind that it’s time to wind down for the day.
• Keep a consistent wake-up time . Your natural body clock is set to the time you wake up rather than the time you fall asleep. If you want to consistently get better sleep, it’s more important to wake up at the same time every day, even if you slept poorly or stayed out late the night before.
• Don’t drink coffee after noon . Caffeine has a half life of 4-6 hours, so if you want to fall asleep by 10pm you should switch to decaf – or better yet, water – by noon.

Build your workday around your energy levels

No matter how much you sleep, how many miles you run, or how even you keep your blood sugar levels, you’ll experience natural ebbs and flows in your energy throughout the day. Those are your ultradian rhythms .

Image Credit: Fast Company

Ultaradian rhythms are driven by a whole host of things happening in your body — hormone levels, metabolic processes, cardiovascular functioning — and they affect your energy, mood, and cognitive functioning. These rhythms take the form of 90-minute peaks of energy followed by a 20-minute trough that repeats throughout the day with the peaks trending lower and lower as the day goes on.

You can’t escape the natural rhythms of your body, so plan your day to work with them. Here’s how:

• Identify your rhythms . While everyone experiences ultradian rhythms, they won’t occur at the same time for everyone. Take a week to note your energy levels throughout the day. Look for patterns for when your energy levels are highest and lowest. Here’s a weekly log courtesy of Daniel Pink you can print and keep at your desk. Set an alarm every 90 minutes and rate your mental alertness and energy levels.

When your energy levels are high do:

• Your not urgent and important tasks — the ones that always get pushed off to later because they don’t have deadlines
• Your cognitively demanding tasks that require focus — aka your “ deep work ”
• Any important decision-making and planning

When your energy levels are low:

• Do unimportant or smaller tasks that don’t require a lot of thinking
• Respond to emails
• Take care of personal admin things
• Read articles you’ve saved for later
• Get creative — studies show that people perform better on creative tasks when their energy levels aren’t at their peak

Use a label in Todoist for “@high_energy🔥” to quickly pull up a list of tasks that fit this energy level.

Use a label in Todoist for “@low_energy😴” to quickly pull up a list of tasks that fits this energy level.

Having a hard time identifying which tasks should be “high energy” and which ones should be “low energy”? The Eisenhower Matrix is a helpful framework for distinguishing between the two.

Take strategic breaks throughout the day

Your energy levels will naturally deteriorate over the course of the day, but there’s a simple way to recharge your batteries: take breaks.

Instead of pushing to the point of mental fatigue, give your brain a chance to relax and reset. Will your energy return to peak levels? Probably not, but a regular refresh will help you sustain your focus over a longer period of time instead of crashing by midday.

In his book When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing , Daniel Pink gives this advice for taking more productive breaks:

Something beats nothing . High performers work for fifty-two minutes and then break for seventeen minutes.

Moving beats stationary . One study showed that hourly five-minute walking breaks boosted energy levels, sharpened focus, and “improved mood throughout the day and reduced feelings of fatigue in the late afternoon.”

Social beats solo . Research in South Korean workplaces shows that social breaks—talking with coworkers about something other than work—are more effective at reducing stress and improving mood than either cognitive breaks (answering e-mail) or nutrition breaks (getting a snack).

Outside beats inside . People who take short walks outdoors return with better moods and greater replenishment than people who walk indoors.

Fully detached beats semi-detached . Tech-free breaks also increase vigor and reduce emotional exhaustion.

Or you may want to use an afternoon break to just sleep. “Power naps” have been shown to improve alertness and mood , counteracting the afternoon slump. Just don’t sleep too long! A 20-40 minute nap at a low-energy point between noon and 4pm works best for most people.

Manage mental load at the source

Think of your brain like the RAM on your computer — that’s the short-term data storage your computer needs to do whatever you’re asking it to do right now. When you have one program open running one task, all the RAM is dedicated to that one thing and everything zips along nicely. But then you open another window. And another. And then a new internet tab or twenty. Each additional demand on your computer slows things down.

You have two choices: you can either increase your “RAM” (see the above points on nutrition, sleep, exercise) or you can decrease the number of applications you have open at any given time. Here are some of the ways you can lighten your mental load:

• Only touch things once . I have an email sitting in my inbox that’s 3 months old. It’s not that important, but it does require a response. I see it every time I check my email. I’ve opened it multiple times. I haven’t actually done anything about it, yet it continues to take up little bits of precious mental energy. Don’t do that. Instead follow the “ touch it once ” rule:

“The general idea is that as soon as you touch something, whether it’s a piece of mail or a project that needs to be filed, you immediately act on it. This could be fully completing the task at once or determining the next actionable steps to move it along.”

• Time block your emails . Answering email is exhausting to begin with, but bouncing back and forth between your inbox and whatever other tasks you need to get done is even worse. Instead, set aside 2-3 specific “ time blocks ” throughout the day to process your inbox. Check and answer emails during those times and only those times. That goes for checking team messaging apps like Slack or Twist too.

Set aside 2-3 specific “ time blocks ” throughout the day to do your work.

• Focus on one thing at a time . Only have one application open on your computer, figuratively speaking.
• Identify which decisions you can put on autopilot . For example, wear the same outfit every day, eat the same breakfast, keep the same exercise routine. Variety is the spice of life, but too much decision-making will wear out your brain.
• Learn how to say no . Each additional responsibility you take on increases the mental load on your brain. Take a good, hard look at your commitments vs your mental capacity and cull everything that isn’t essential.

[cta_todoist][/cta_todoist]

Disconnect at the end of the workday

I don’t just mean physically disconnecting. If you shut your laptop, but your brain is still working overtime worrying about your to-do list it doesn’t count as disconnecting. Your brain needs time to rest and recover every day, but that’s easier said than done. It’s especially hard when your office is also your home as is the case for so many of us right now.

That’s why Cal Newport, computer science professor and author of Deep Work , thinks that everyone should have a work shutdown ritual — a consistent series of tasks that signals to your brain that it can stop thinking about work for the day.

• Update and organize your to-do list . Your brain tends to worry over unfinished tasks, but you can temporarily trick it into thinking you’ve finished the task by making a plan to finish it. That’s why writing out a to-do list can provide mental relief even when you still have the exact same amount of work left. Doist’s founder and CEO, Amir, makes it a habit to get to “ to-do list zero ” at the end of every day by rescheduling any leftover tasks for later in the week.

Make it a habit to have a work shutdown ritual at the end of every day, where you review and move forward tasks that you didn't get to.

• Schedule a commitment at the end of the workday . It’s hard to pull yourself out of work mode even when you know you should so schedule something you can’t miss for the end of the day – like dinner (or a Zoom call) with friends or that group fitness class we talked about earlier.
• Turn off all notifications from work apps on your phone . If you can, delete work apps on your phone entirely. They’re just too tempting and habit-forming. A “quick peek” during dinner can pull your mind right back into work mode.

And don’t forget to take longer, disconnected vacations every once in a while.

If you really have to push through…

The best way to deal with mental fatigue is to take proactive steps to minimize it in the first place and then work around it as best you can. But sometimes you just have to slog through your energy troughs.

If you’re working up against a deadline — like, I don’t know, say finishing an article about mental fatigue before you leave for vacation just to give a random example — and you absolutely have to get something done, try breaking the task down into the next tiny step that will take 10 minutes or less to complete. In our totally hypothetical example, that might be “finish writing this paragraph”. Set a timer and get to it. Once the timer goes off, identify the next micro-task and work on that.

If you have to force your way through a mental slump, break work down into micro-tasks you can finish in 10 minutes or less.

Maybe you’ll get through the energy trough and out to the other side, or maybe it’ll continue to be a slog. Either way, you’ll be making progress instead of getting stuck in a foggy, unproductive loop.

It’s hard to see your way out of mental fatigue while you’re experiencing it. Acknowledging that fatigue is a natural result of challenging your brain can be freeing in and of itself. Yes, there are things we can do to boost our energy levels, but in the end we’re not Energizer bunnies. We need to learn to work with our natural rhythms instead of simply trying to overcome them.

Next time, instead of rereading the same paragraph for the fifth time or rewriting that line of code for the tenth, give yourself permission to step away, rest your brain, and tackle the problem when you’re fresh.

Bring order to your work and life

Join millions of people who are finally feeling the relief of getting organized.

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• Study Skills
• Homework Skills

How to Get Your Homework Done Fast

Last Updated: June 24, 2024 Fact Checked

Staying Focused

Getting organized, staying motivated, expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Jake Adams . Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,155,266 times.

Doing homework can be both time-consuming and frustrating, and you probably want to do more with your free time than just homework. When you have a lot of work to do, it can be tough to work efficiently. By staying focused, organizing and planning, and motivating yourself, you can get your homework done in a timely manner and move onto more fun and exciting activities. But you should start with putting away all distractions such as your devices unless you need them.They are normally the main distraction. You should also work in a quiet place so you are not attempted to go and do something else. For example, you should not work near your TV because you will be tempted to go and watch it.

• Download website-blocking apps such as Freedom or SelfControl to stay focused while using your computer for homework. Some, such as the Chrome extension Strict Workflow, even have the added bonus of preventing you from cancelling the timer once it has started.

• If one subject or type of assignment is taking much more time than the others, you may want to ask for a little extra help in that area from your teacher or parent.
• If you get distracted or go off-task, don't make excuses for yourself. (e.g. "I won't be able to focus until I do this anyway." or "I'm sure it will only take a minute or two."

• Consider consolidating your multiple different subject folders and notebooks into one big binder separated by tab dividers. This way, all of your schoolwork will be in one place.

• Decide how much time you want to spend on your homework collectively.
• Make a list of all the different tasks you need to finish.
• Estimate how much time you’ll be able to spend on each task to finish your homework when you want to.
• Work straight through your list and cross tasks off as you go. [7] X Research source

• A ten page essay that’s due in a week that you haven’t started should be labeled an “A” or “B” while a short five question worksheet due in three days may be labeled a “C”.
• Make sure you don't wait until the last second to get assignments done.

• Try eating celery sticks and apple slices with peanut butter.

Supercharge Your Studying with this Expert Series

Reader Videos

• Wear something very comfortable while you work. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Make sure to hand in all assignments on time. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Try using a planner to help you remember the tasks that you need to complete. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

• If you set a timer, it can motivate you to get your homework done more quickly. Be sure to take a 2-5 minute break in between. For example, if you're going to do an assignment that you expect to take 30 minutes, set a timer for 15 minutes. Take a 2-minute break when the timer goes off, then set your timer again for 15 minutes.
• It can be good to have friends over if they help motivate you and are interested in getting their homework done quickly as well. They might be a distraction at times but it can also be easier to work when there are people around you who are working too.
• If you drink something cold during your breaks it can help make you more alert so that you'll finish faster. It might also help to do it at night rather than during the day so you feel more time pressure.
• Try to get your homework done as much as you can in school. You could do it during a flex or study hall. If your teacher gives you time in class to work on it, use it.

• Take your time. If you rush through your homework and don’t try your best, you might end up getting a bad grade. Thanks Helpful 177 Not Helpful 19

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/creating-ideal-homework-environment-for-kids-with-adhd-0913164
• ↑ http://info.achs.edu/blog/never-do-homework-in-bed-3-reasons-why
• ↑ https://childmind.org/article/strategies-to-make-homework-go-more-smoothly/
• ↑ https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/take-charge-of-distractions/
• ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/homework.html
• ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/homework.html
• ↑ https://ofy.org/blog/homework-hacks-8-tips-get-done-faster/
• ↑ Jake Adams. Academic Tutor & Test Prep Specialist. Expert Interview. 20 May 2020.

About This Article

To get your homework done fast, work in a comfortable, well-lit area that doesn't have any distractions. Also, try setting a timer with however many minutes you want to finish your homework in so you can glance at it as you work and see if you're spending too much time on something. You can also make a to-do list before you get started so you don't waste any time figuring out what you need to be working on. To stay motivated, have a snack and some water nearby, and reward yourself with a fun activity once all your homework is done. To learn how to get organized so it's easier to do your homework, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Caroline Dublinn

Dec 29, 2016

Did this article help you?

Hannah Britt

Feb 8, 2022

Aug 3, 2021

Jul 3, 2016

Jul 12, 2017

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Develop the tech skills you need for work and life

Procrastination

Seven strategies to conquer the tasks you dread, these behavioral methods can help put procrastination and avoidance in the past..

Updated June 19, 2024 | Reviewed by Lybi Ma

• What Is Procrastination?
• Take our Procrastination
• Find a therapist near me
• Avoiding the tasks that you dread can drain your energy and keep you from enjoying the things you love.
• Understanding the root cause of why you're avoiding it will help you address it more effectively.
• Change your story, break it down, pair it with fun, and create accountability.
• Being kind to yourself in the process will create less angst and stress.

We all have those tasks that we don't want to do. Whether it’s a chore, a work assignment, organizing your taxes, or something else entirely, these tasks can weigh heavily on your mind and sap your motivation . Worst of all they can steal your joy from the things you want to be doing as they drain your energy while they idle in the back of your mind. Procrastination and avoidance only make things worse in the long run and the reality is once you’re doing those dreaded things, they are rarely as bad as you make them to be in your head.

Here are some useful behavioral strategies for how to conquer those unwanted tasks and reclaim your productivity and peace of mind.

1. Understand Why You’re Avoiding the Task

Before you can tackle a task you don’t want to do, it’s important to understand why you’re avoiding it in the first place. Is it boring to you? Is it difficult? Are you afraid of failing? Identifying the root cause of your avoidance can help you address it more effectively.

• Boredom : If a task is dull, try to make it more interesting. Turn it into a game, set a timer, and race against it, or reward yourself for completing it.
• Difficulty : Break the task into smaller, more manageable steps. This makes it less overwhelming and gives you a clear path to follow.
• Fear of Failure : Remind yourself that mistakes are a part of learning. Aim for progress, not perfection.

2. Change Your Story About It

If you keep telling yourself what a boring horrible task it is, that will make it seem even more so in your head.

• Instead, remind yourself why you are doing it and how good it will feel once it is done.
• Think about the benefits of completing the task , such as reduced stress, a clean house, or positive feedback from your boss.
• Change your inner dialogue about it by using language such as “I get to” instead of “I have to” makes a difference to your mindset and the energy you feel when you approach the task.

3. Break It Down

Large tasks can feel overwhelming, leading to procrastination. Breaking down a task into smaller, manageable chunks can make it feel more achievable.

• Create a Step-by-Step Plan : Outline the steps needed to complete the task. Focus on one step at a time rather than the entire project.
• Set Small Goals : Aim to complete just one small part of the task. Once you start, you might find it easier to keep going.

4. Schedule It

Often, we avoid tasks because we haven’t allocated specific time for them. By scheduling unwanted tasks, you create a commitment with yourself to get them done.

• Use a Calendar : Block out specific times in your calendar to work on the task. Treat these blocks like important appointments.
• Morning Power : If possible, tackle the unwanted task first thing in the morning. Getting it out of the way early can give you a sense of accomplishment and free up mental space for the rest of the day.

5. Pair It with Something You Enjoy

Pairing an unwanted task with something you enjoy can make it more bearable.

• Listen to Music or a Podcast : If the task allows, listen to your favorite music or an interesting podcast while you work.
• Combine with a Treat : Treat yourself to a favorite snack or beverage while you tackle the task.

6. Find an Accountability Partner

Having someone hold you accountable can motivate you to complete a task.

• Buddy System : Find a friend or colleague to check in with you, and your progress. This can be a mutual arrangement where you help each other stay on track.
• Share Your Goals : Simply telling someone about your goal can increase your commitment.

7. Practice Self-Kindness

If you struggle to get started, don’t be too hard on yourself. Practicing self-compassion can make the process less stressful .

• Acknowledge Your Feelings : It’s okay to not want to do something. Acknowledge your feelings without judgment.
• Encourage Yourself : Use positive self-talk to encourage yourself. Remind yourself that you are capable and you have tackled difficult tasks before.

There will always be tasks you don’t want to do, but with the right strategies, you can tackle them effectively and with less stress. Remind yourself that action and productivity feel good and are one of the quickest ways to boost your mood. The hardest part is often just getting started. Take a deep breath, dive in, and watch as you transform dread into accomplishment.

Jennice Vilhauer, Ph.D. , is the Director of Emory University’s Adult Outpatient Psychotherapy Program in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science in the School of Medicine.

• Find a Therapist
• Find a Treatment Center
• Find a Psychiatrist
• Find a Support Group
• Find Online Therapy
• United States
• Brooklyn, NY
• Chicago, IL
• Houston, TX
• Los Angeles, CA
• New York, NY
• Portland, OR
• San Diego, CA
• San Francisco, CA
• Seattle, WA
• Washington, DC
• Asperger's
• Bipolar Disorder
• Chronic Pain
• Eating Disorders
• Passive Aggression
• Personality
• Goal Setting
• Positive Psychology
• Stopping Smoking
• Low Sexual Desire
• Relationships
• Child Development
• Self Tests NEW
• Therapy Center
• Diagnosis Dictionary
• Types of Therapy

Sticking up for yourself is no easy task. But there are concrete skills you can use to hone your assertiveness and advocate for yourself.

• Emotional Intelligence
• Gaslighting
• Affective Forecasting
• Neuroscience

Stack Exchange Network

Stack Exchange network consists of 183 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow , the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers.

Q&A for work

Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search.

Why does "I was happy to do my homework" work, but "I was tired to do my homework" doesn't?

I'm teaching ESL, and I came across a question from one of my students that I don't know how to answer. Using the form "{subject} {verb} {adjective} {infinitive phrase}" we've been going over sentences such as "I was happy to help you." (More specifically, "I helped you. I was happy. -> I was happy to help you.")

One of my students then suggested "I was tired to do my homework."

Now, as a native English speaker, I know that this is wrong. I'm even college educated and actually trained in ESL (which included grammar classes)... and yet, I have no idea WHY this is wrong. It SEEMS to fit the form our textbook was teaching ("I did my homework. I was tired." -> "I was tired to do my homework.") and yet I know it's wrong.

What's the difference? Why doesn't this work?

• syntactic-analysis
• infinitives

• 17 We are all tired to do your students' homework! Should probably be "of doing", but I'm tired. –  Elliott Frisch Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 2:34
• 36 For approximately the same reason that "I was tired of doing my homework" works but "I was happy of doing my homework" doesn't. –  anongoodnurse Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 2:40
• 11 Don't come at it from a grammar angle; come at it from a semantic angle. "Happy/sad/reluctant to do X" denotes your attitude toward doing X before you start . You can't be "tired to do" something before you've started (although I suppose the thought of doing it can make you tired in advance). In other words, "tired to do" is a semantics issue, not a grammar issue. Also, it may work best to teach "sick/tired of x-ing" as idiomatic "chunks." (P.S. Welcome to EL&U!) –  pyobum Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 2:45
• 30 Interestingly, just adding a too makes it work: “ I was too tired to do my homework .” –  Jim Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 2:52
• 11 Related: “I’m too tired to drive”: Why does removing 'too' make this sentence ungrammatical? –  CowperKettle Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 14:24

12 Answers 12

Let's change the main verb to "see". All the following adjectives accept an infinite

I was happy to see her

I was sorry to see her

I was surprised to see her

I was disappointed to see her

5a . I was sad to see her (go)

5b. I was saddened to see her

‘I was saddened to see their lack of commitment.’

• I was mad to see her

Incidentally, mad in British English usually means "crazy", so the speaker could be complaining: “I must have been mad to see her, whatever was I thinking?”

I was impatient to see her

I was anxious to see her

• I was bored of seeing her
• I got bored seeing her

Similarly, it is equally ungrammatical to say: “I was bored to do my homework” Google Books has innumerable results for bored to death , and bored to tears but none for was bored to do and only 4 instances for was bored to see And yet, bored is also a feeling or an emotion. A handy list of adjectives ending in -ed and -ing which may help the OP in his ESL lessons

• I was tired of seeing her
• I got tired seeing her

In sentence number 10, the speaker probably wanted to say they were too tired to meet someone, "too" often carries a negative meaning.

I was too tired to do my homework

As a result, I didn't do my homework.

However, using tired alone (without the adverb too ) works as the reason for doing or not doing something.

• He was tired to go to bed
• He was tired, so he went to bed
• We were tired to stop for a rest
• We were tired, so we stopped for a rest
• She was tired to see him
• She was tired, so she didn't see him
• I was tired to do my homework
• I was tired, so I didn't do my homework

The same is true for the following synonyms of tired : weary , exhausted , sleepy , drained , burnt-out / burned-out .

REVISED I found an interesting older question on EL&U which mentions the usage of infinitives after adjectives. It doesn't specifically answer the OP's question but I consider it useful nevertheless.

To infinitive used after adjective .

The following is a short excerpt from @Araucaria's answer .

Adjectives which take infinitival phrases as complement fall into three camps. Some adjectives determine our interpretation of the subject of the infinitival clause. Some adjectives determine our interpretation of the object of the infinitival clause. Some adjectives don't determine our interpretation of either the subject or the object of the infinitival clause. Group 3 Some adjectives don't fall into groups 1 or 2. We can't use them as predicate adjectives when they have an infinitival clause as complement. That is to say we can't use such adjective phrases as Predicative Complements. One of these adjectives is the word possible : *A Rubik's cube is possible to be done. *Pineapples are possible to grow here. *Whales are possible to swim. These sentences are ungrammatical. They are odd because they seem to be verging on the grammatical, but just don't seem to quite work properly.

Many users have repeatedly pointed out (see comments) that the adjective annoyed is used with the to-infinitive. The following pattern, ANNOYED AT + GERUND as in: I was annoyed at doing my homework , sounds far better to my ears; however, after searching a bit, I did find a few examples in the Oxford Learners' Dictionaries of annoyed + to-infinitive (to my consternation ☺).

• 14 "I was annoyed" does work. "I was annoyed to see her hit her brother" is admissible. –  Andrew Leach ♦ Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 8:09
• 2 "I am annoyed to do homework" simply doesn't work. But " I am annoyed at the idea of doing homework ", " My having to do homework, annoys me " or " Doing homework annoys me " do. –  Mari-Lou A Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 8:39
• 5 re 6: "I was mad to see her" could also mean "I was desperate or excited to see her" as mad in British usage also means enthusiastic or excited. dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/mad –  barbecue Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 15:25
• 15 "I was annoyed to see her" makes perfect sense. E.g. "My aunt came over this weekend. I was annoyed to see her, because she always pesters me about getting married." –  wjandrea Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 20:08
• 3 @Mari-LouA I would say, "I was annoyed to do ...", but not "I was bored to do ...", because that would be "I was bored of doing ...". In my example, even if you separate the 'because' clause, it works just fine: "I was annoyed to see her. She always pesters me ...". I agree with other answerers that this a question of semantics, not grammar. –  wjandrea Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 20:22

If I had to guess, it would be that this form "{subject} {verb} {adjective} {infinitive phrase}" does not always work. The sentence you described, "I was happy to help you" will work but replace happy with other adjectives to see if it works.

I was hungry to help you I was eager to help you I was sad to help you I was mad to help you

Out of all those sentences, the only one that actually made sense to me was "I was eager to help you", because it's just one of those common expressions. Similar to how "I was happy to help you" is a familiar phrase. But this doesn't mean that words such as sad and mad can not be used in the form "{subject} {verb} {adjective} {infinitive phrase}". For we can still say something such as

I was sad to hear that Craig Sager passed away today. I was mad to see that question on the exam. I was too tired to do my homework.

Like others have said, this most likely isn't a grammatical issue, rather, a semantics concept. It's related to why we wouldn't say "I am tired to eat right now" but why we would say "I am tired of eating cafeteria food".

EDIT: Seeing all the feedback on here has made me reconsider the validity of the sentence "I was tired to help you", so I hope I can congregate all the helpful feedback into my answer.

My four original examples

After reevaluating each sentence, I have to admit that each one was grammatically and logically correct.

I was hungry to help you

This can mean that I was desperate or extremely eager to help you.

I was sad to help you

This can mean that I was upset at the circumstances that lead you to needing my help.

I was mad to help you

This can mean that I really did not want to help you; therefore I was angry as a result for having to waste my time helping you.

Unfitting adjectives for certain indicative phrases

I agree with Mari-Lou A that adjectives such as possible are grammatically incorrect in the form "{subject} {verb} {adjective} {infinitive phrase}". The reason is that those kinds of words are usually structured with an infinitive phrase in this manner,

It is possible to grow onions there It is unrealistic to assume that It is imperative to hand your homework in on time

There are also adjectives that we can replace "tired" with that would not make sense either due to the lack of context or the lack of common meaning for the resultant phrase.

I was orange to help you I was tall to help you I was old to help you

What does it mean to be orange, tall, and old in these cases? Compare these sentences with

I was crazy to help you I was foolish to help you

I believe that these sentences are all grammatically correct, but we only associate meanings with particular phrases. It may be possible that "I was tired to help you" and even the three sentences above all have legitimate meanings. However, I am not familiar with them because I have not heard these phrases used often.

The addition of too

An interesting point is that if you add too before tired , then the sentence seems to make more sense.

I was too tired to help you

Now in this case, being "too tired" has some common meaning associated to it. It means that I could not help you because I was tired at the time you required my assistance. We can add this word to our previous sentences to completely change their meaning

I was too hungry to help you I was too upset to help you I was too frustrated to help you

All these sentences have a common thread, which is the fact they all have the connotation that the action indicated in the infinitive phrase was never completed. So could it be that words such as tired can only express an incompleted action and that is why it requires the addition of too ? I'm afraid this hypothesis has no validity, for some of Mari-Lou A's valid sentences included

I was anxious to meet her I was impatient to meet her

Both these sentences do not guarantee that the action in the infinitive phrase actually occurred.

adjective + preposition + gerund

Another interesting point was how adjectives that work with the form "{adjective}{proposition}{gerund}" may not abide by the form "{subject} {verb} {adjective} {infinitive phrase}". The word tired falls into this category because of these two statements

I was tired to help you I was tired of helping you

The second sentence means that I don't want to continue helping you. Other words such as afraid and bored fall into this category

I was afraid to help you I was bored to help you I was afraid of helping you I was bored of helping you

It is a legitimate argument to claim that the first example, "I was afraid to help you" is completely valid. Unfortunately the second example, "I was bored to help you" falls into the category of less familiar sentences such as "I was tired to help you". So the gerund topic did not get us very far.

My final thoughts

What does it mean "to be tired to help someone"? Can we replace tired with a synonym to get a similar sounding sentence that is more commonplace? Exhausted , weary , and fatigued don't seem to work either, or do they? Looking at the sentence, "I was happy to help you", I tried to decipher what it meant. It simply means that I wanted to help you because it gave me satisfaction. Could it be possible that "I was tired to help you" has a meaning that we are not fully aware of? I only asked this because users were arguing about the meaning of phrases with questionable adjectives like "I was annoyed to see her" and "I was mad to see her". It may very well have to do with why "I was not there to help you" works but "I was absent to help you" doesn't. All of the examples could be grammatically correct but we don't know what they all indicate.

• 2 I think that's questionable, because even in those other "to help you" examples you gave, I see them as perfectly grammatical. Maybe the situations that would elicit such sentences are a little uncommon, but there's nothing wrong with the structure. "I was sad to help you" for instance... maybe you were recently injured making you need help, which makes me sad. Or maybe you aren't putting in the proper effort I think you're capable of, which makes me sad. It still works as a sentence, even if maybe uncommon. Similarly with the others. –  Richard Winters Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 3:55
• 10 The phrase 'I was mad to help you' does work as an exclamation, i.e. 'I was mad to help you!' with the meaning 'It was crazy of me to have helped you'. –  Pete Thorne Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 8:19
• 5 Sorry, all four of the initial examples here are perfectly fine. –  Jezen Thomas Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 10:32
• 2 I agree most of these examples are perfectly reasonable. Better examples of inappropriate adjectives would be tall, or orange, or spidery. –  barbecue Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 15:32
• 3 +1 for the comprehensive edit. Also, given the current Western political climate, I'm now desperate to hear a certain incoming leader say “I am too orange to help you” . –  Jezen Thomas Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 23:25

I’m afraid the answer is ultimately a very disappointing “because it is” .

There are various types of adjectives, and like verbs, different adjectives have different properties of valency . Some cannot take any complements; some can take one or more optional complements; and some must take one or more mandatory complements. Of those that can or must take complements, some license infinitival complements, some license gerund/participial complements, some license prepositional complements, and some license any combination of these complement types. (Some even license noun-phrase complements, but they’re few and not relevant here.)

The answer by Araucaria that Mari-Lou dug up and linked to in her answer does a good job of describing the underlying properties that govern how the subgrouping of infinitival complement-licensing adjectives determines which constructions they may be used in. But in the same way that there is no way of knowing, a priori , whether a given verb is intransitive, transitive, or ditransitive—or indeed whether it licenses any other kind of complement—there is no way of knowing what group an adjective belongs to to begin with.

Even within the group of adjectives that license infinitival complements, there are many variations. For example, although happy and angry are both adjectives that describe emotional states and can take infinitival complements, the type of verb they allow in that complement differs. With evidential verbs like see/hear/find/notice , both work just fine:

I was happy to find that they’d left already. I was angry to find that they’d left already.

But with what we might call ‘simple action verbs’, they are unequal:

I has happy to do my homework. †I was angry to do my homework.

With participial complements, on the other hand, they converge again:

I was happy seeing that they’d left already. I was happy doing my homework. I was angry seeing that they’d left already. I was angry doing my homework.

They also both license prepositional complements:

I was happy at finding that they’d left already. I was happy from doing my homework. I was angry at finding that they’d left already. I was angry from doing my homework.

Doing the same thing with tired , it is clear that this adjective is perfectly happy (!) to license prepositional and participial complements:

I was tired from working. I was tired at the prospect of working. I was tired of working. I was tired working at the wheel all day. (?)I was tired working.

But there is just no infinitival complement that is allowed:

†I was tired to see that they’d left already. †I was tired to do my homework. †It is tired to be a good worker. †I am tired for him to work.

So we can conclude that happy , angry , and tired all license participial complements and various types of prepositional complements; but where tired doesn’t license infinitival complements at all, angry licenses evidential ones, and happy seemingly licenses just about any type imaginable (at least I can’t think of one that won’t work).

What we can’t conclude anything about is why this is so. That is simply a property that has to be learnt individually for every adjective, just like transitivity and phrasal verb constructions must be learnt individually for each verb.

• 3 @Wildcard Terminology is nothing but a convenient way of describing complex semantic notions in relatively few words, to make sure everyone is on the same page and knows what’s being discussed. The terminology itself doesn’t really matter (as long as it’s understood), and there isn’t really any emphasis on it in my answer here. It’s the notions behind it that matter. I don’t understand where you’re getting a prescriptivist vibe from, though—there is no prescriptivism in stating that you just have to learn what constructions each adjective can and cannot be used in. That’s just fact. –  Janus Bahs Jacquet Commented Dec 18, 2016 at 11:00
• +1 Nice post. Are the gerund-participle clauses complements though? Or are they adjuncts? Seeing that they'd left already, I was happy etc. –  Araucaria - Him Commented Aug 6, 2017 at 0:15
• @Araucaria Hm, good point. They may be, though at least with happy , there's a difference to me between the complement-like usage and the adjunct (or sentence-adverbial) usage: “I was happy being a carpenter” is a statement about me; “Being a carpenter, I was happy” is a statement about carpenters. I think they're at least arguably complements. –  Janus Bahs Jacquet Commented Aug 6, 2017 at 5:44

When to-infinitive is used adverbially, it implies (1) purpose, (2) cause (rasson) of feeling or emotion, (3) result (of an action), etc.

There are adjectives that describe people's feeling and emotions that are followed by to-infinitive. For example, let's change the sentence in the question to

I was happy to finish my homework.

This sentence implies.

(1) Finishing my homework is the cause of my feeling happiness. (2) Without finishing my homework, I would not have felt happy. (3) Finishing my homework was done only once (one-time, non-repetitive action). To infinitive usually doesn't imply repetitive actions.

(Note @Bolben's comment: It can also mean I was perfectly willing to finish my homework . In this case, to-infinitive is closer to purpose than cause )

However, "I was tired to do my homework" is not idiomatic because

(1) Tired is not related with feeling or emotion. It only means physical fatigue created as a result of some continuous or repetitive actions. (2) In order to feel tired, you need to do something continuously or repetitively. Gerund or -ing form is more suitable for continuous or repetitive action than to infinitive.

The reason "I was too tired to do my homework." works is the to-infinitive indicates purpose (or result). In other words, the sentence means "In order to do my homework I was too tired and that's why I couldn't do it" or "I was very tired and as a result I couldn't do my homework."

Other adjectives that can be followed by to-infinitive are afraid, ashamed, glad, pleased, proud, sad, sorry, etc. Compare the following two sentences:

(1) I was afraid to jump. (2) I was afraid of jumping.

No. (1) indicates jumping is the cause of my feeling fear or anxiety at a specific point of time in the past. No. (2) indicates I generally felt fear or anxiety about jumping.

There are differences between to-infinitive and -ing form in terms of their function and usages. When there are adjectives describing people's emotion or feeling, using to-infinitive is more idiomatic to indicate their cause (or purpose) .

• 1 There is an alternative implication of I was happy to finish my homework which you have not mentioned. It can also mean I was perfectly willing to finish my homework . There are many possible reasons for this which would be made clear by other parts of the same passage. For example I was happy to finish my homework before I went out or My girlfriend arrived while I was doing my homework. I was happy to finish my homework after she left . In neither of these cases is there the implication that the completion of the homework was the cause of a feeling of happiness. –  BoldBen Commented Dec 17, 2016 at 8:06
• @BoldBen Thanks for the comment. That's the point ArtOfCode raised in the comments to the question. Yes, it's possible and it is closer to "purpose" than "cause". That's what to-infinitive is for. It will take a doctoral dissertation to answer this question if you want to include every possible meaning and connotation. –  user140086 Commented Dec 17, 2016 at 8:10
• Absolutely, this question could run and run! –  BoldBen Commented Dec 17, 2016 at 8:14
• @BoldBen I've edited my answer a little. Please take a look. –  user140086 Commented Dec 17, 2016 at 8:14
• The jump versus jumping comparison is very helpful +1. The above answers don't really answer the question; I'm not sure why they're so highly voted. –  BladorthinTheGrey Commented Dec 19, 2016 at 0:19

It doesn't work because "I was tired to" is not an idiom. Like an idiom it's ungrammatical, but that's as far as the parallel gets.

"I was happy to (do my homework/see her/find $10 in the street)" is an idiom. The grammatical way to express the same idea is "I felt happy when I (did my homework/saw her/found a tenner in the street)"

"I felt tired when I (did my homework/saw her/found a tenner in the street)" is also grammatical, if not in the case of the tenner very sensible. But you can't back-patch to get the idiom because an idiom doesn't exist for "tired to" the way it does for "happy to".

• 1 Idioms are arguably never ungrammatical, but are either extragrammatical (not using normal grammar), use words in unusual senses, or both. –  Edwin Ashworth Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 15:30
• I'd probably argue that "extragrammatical" is a type of ungrammaticality, since if it lies outside normative grammar it's therefore not grammatical, thus ungrammatical, but I probably wouldn't put too much energy into it :-) –  MMacD Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 17:08
• 'Ungrammatical' and 'unacceptable' are nigh on hyponym and hypernym. I used the term my favourite work on idioms / fixed expressions (by Moon) uses. –  Edwin Ashworth Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 17:10
• Now there's a pair of words y'don't hear very often! I think you are probably the first person ever to use them in my presence (fsvo presence). –  MMacD Commented Dec 16, 2016 at 17:15

There are some adjectives that can be used with an infinitive, and some that cannot. (Tired is an adjective that cannot be used with an infinitive.)

I started to agree with MMacD in saying that "happy to" is idiomatic. "I was happy to do my homework" doesn't mean that doing homework made me happy, or even that I truly was happy while doing my homework. Instead, "happy to" is an idiom for "willing to", "pleased to", and so on.

Upon further reflection, I am not sure that this is strictly an idiom. Regardless, the infinitive phrase changes the meaning of "happy".

It is interesting how inserting "too" changes things:

I was happy to do my homework.

...Happy works with the infinitive to form a phrase conveying willingness.

I was too happy to do my homework.

...Happy is a regular adjective that modifies the subject, and implies that I did NOT do my homework because of my condition of happiness.

Ain't English grand.

I was happy to help you is equivalent to I was happy that I helped / could help you . In other words, happy is an adjective that in its predicative use may take a complement with the form of a content clause ( Cambridge Grammar of the English Language , p964).

Among the other " adjectives that license declarative content clauses as complement " that the CGEL lists are: eager, glad, annoyed, pleased, proud, upset .

Tired is not in the CGEL's list, and the utterance I was tired that I did / could do my homework is ungrammatical - as is the equivalent I was tired to do my homework . Furthermore, it is semantically problematic.

I think the OP's textbook illustrates the danger of transformation exercises that pay no regard to the meaning of the resulting conversion.

I am not a native English speaker, hence maybe I could help adding comments from a different angle. The key of the idiom using the gerund after adjectives like "tired" could be the fact that, as English uses the verb "to be" either for "to have presence in the realm of perceived reality; exist; live" or "to take place; occur"( Collins Dictionary ), the language needs to remark the difference of being a perception of the reality plus a self existed presence and, on the other hand, being an occurrence. In the sentence "I am happy" the subject is meaning that he/she perceived happiness. In the sentence "I am tired" the subject is denoting an occurrence. Latin languages, like Spanish, have different verbs: "ser" or "estar" to express one or another meaning. At the same level, in Spanish is not correct to use "ser" with some adjectives and the same instance for "estar", though it is possible to use any of them with the same adjective which, however, gives different meaning to the sentence ( English translation of ser (Collins Dictionary) and English translation of estar (Collins Dictionary) ).

Yet in Spanish is not correct saying: "soy cansado", or in the past "fui cansado" which means that my being or my existance is tired, but it must be said "estoy cansado" or "estuve/estaba cansado" which means that a certain activity is affecting me for a short period of time. With "happy" we can say "soy/fui feliz" if we mean that my happiness is durable and "exists" within my being, and also we can express "estoy/estuve feliz" if my happiness is/was owed to a particular or certain happening or occurrence in an accountable period of time. This is working in the same way with other adjectives like boring, sick, angry, hungry, sad, etc.

I am not sure if this is a very philological explanation, however, at least for a foreign student, it could shed some light on the use of gerund or infinitive after some adjectives in English.

I think part of the reason the second sentence (tired to do my homework) doesn't work is that it can mean more than one thing - offhand, I've thought of three - and there isn't enough information. So it comes across as incoherent, or incomplete. When using "I was happy to", there is really only one way of translating it - that the action was done, and the person claimed to be happy about it. Happy is positive, and simple to understand in context. But tired, especially in the context of more effort, is negative - but maybe and maybe not the negative of the action, or negative of the reaction, or just a downside.

I was tired to do my homework.

It could mean I did my homework, and I was tired. It could mean, I did not do my homework, because I was tired. It could mean, I am tired of doing my homework.

If you did your homework, but was tired (direct comparison to the "happy to" construction) then...why is it one sentence? If you were tired as a result of doing homework, there's no reason to have it first in the sentence and it is a bit unusual ("I was tired and did my homework", and "I did my homework and was tired", actually mean different things), and if the two weren't related, it makes little sense to keep them in the same question - it reads as disjointed.

If you did not do your homework, because you were tired - you sort of need to signal that negation, and you don't. If you said, "I was too tired" the "too" serves as that signal, "too much" means something didn't work because the quantities are off. Alternatively, you have to say something about relation or sequence to make the combination make sense.

If you are tired of doing your homework, you have made no statement about whether the homework is done or not. Very neutral. You have just signaled a state of mind, or your reaction to homework or its being-done-ness - this feels like the closest analogy to the use of "happy", actually, since it's separate information and effects the work coming and going - but you still need to signal that the other interpretations aren't what you meant.

In any case, since you kind of don't signal what the relation is between the two parts of the sentence ("I was -" and "to do my -"), your listener has to fill in the blanks with how the two are connected. Happy really only means one thing, no matter which causes which (happy because homework, happy while homework, homework while happy, it's all good). So it's easy, in that case, to figure out what the person meant. Tired can mean a couple things, depending on what the tired was doing to the homework, or the homework doing to the tired. So we need a bit more info to figure out what's going on - and without that info, the sentence doesn't parse.

• 1 +1 I wouldn't have put it quite the same way, but this is close enough to what I would have said that it saves me the trouble of duplicating it. Thanks, @Megha. Executive summary: there are a lot of different kinds of predicate adjectives and they behave differently with subordinate clauses. Especially when the adjectives describe human mental or emotional states, which are already vague to start with. –  John Lawler Commented Dec 17, 2016 at 18:59

The segment " ...was tir ed to do... " conflicts past/present/future tenses.

I was happy to do my home work

Happy has no tense, or rather it has a variable tense; to do is either present or future tense. The interesting part of the sentence can be grammatically simplified to:

Happy to do it

Consider the simplification substituting past tense " tired " for no tense " happy ":

Tired to do it

...it doesn't work, since " tired " is past tense.(1)

I can't think of a Modern English tenseless drop-in equivalent for " tired ", but there is the archaic " aweary " which provides the correct tense and sense of it, albeit obscurely:

I was aweary to do my homework.

(Note that plain " weary " also won't work.)

• Like tired , some adjectives ending in " -ed " don't work there, (e.g. bored , numbed , bombed , etc.), and yet some do, (e.g. prepared , stoked , thrilled , etc.). Why the latter set works would be a separate question.

• You've said the past tense is the reason for it not working, then gone on to list an example of the past tense working, claiming it is a separate question. This doesn't seem logically consistent to me –  binaryfunt Commented Jan 26, 2018 at 14:29
• @binaryfunt, Re " doesn't seem logically consistent ": that raises a more general question of " are any natural language's grammars logically consistent "? English in particular is a bit of a mash-up , so even if those languages that contributed to it were consistent, perhaps certain combinations aren't, which grinds their collective gears. Perhaps English grammar is inconsistent similar to how its orthography is . –  agc Commented Jan 26, 2018 at 15:49

More specifically, "I helped you. I was happy. -> I was happy to help you."

I think the root of the issue is that this is a overly simplistic way to think about how the sentence is constructed. You provided a poor rule, and the student tried to apply it to a different situation, where it failed.

One way it fails is that it glosses over the relationship (if any) between being happy and helping.

It is not merely that I happened to be happy while I was helping you, it is that I was happy that I was able to help you . I want you to succeed, and I was happy to be that person that was able to help you when you needed it.

And in this case "happy to help you" works not because of your rule, but because the phrase "happy to (do something)" means something more than just the conjunction of its words. Not sure if "idiomatic" is the right way to describe it, other answers probably give it a better label.

"I was tired to do my homework."

So the "rule" fails here. Part of the problem is that "tired to (do something) isn't an idiomatic phrase like "happy to (do something)" is.

But more than that, what exactly is the connection between "tired" and "homework" that the student is trying to convey?

Were you too tired to do your homework (so you didn't do it)?

Did you just feel tired while you were doing your homework, but you soldiered through?

Did you complete it, but the quality of your homework suffered because you were tired?

All of these would be constructed differently, perhaps something like:

• "I was too tired to do my homework, so I went to sleep."
• "I was so tired doing my homework last night, but I got it done."
• "I was so tired doing my homework, I hope the professor is just as tired grading it."

• But you're ignoring the fact that the formula, or rule —which many English course books recite— works for a great many other adjectives: "I was delighted/disappointed/thrilled/mad/sad/scared (etc.) to help her." These are all perfectly grammatical, and make semantic sense. Although " I was thrilled to help her " is not a typical idiom, it still makes prefect sense. There would be no "rule" to speak of, if it only worked with the adjective "happy". You could call "tired" an exception to the rule. –  Mari-Lou A Commented Dec 19, 2016 at 17:48
• @Mari-LouA Ok, I accept your point. But then doesn't that restrict us to just adjectives that are emotions (delighted/happy/disappointed, etc)? You wouldn't say someone is "polite to help you" or "tanned to help you" or "strong to help you" or " wet to help you", even if they just came in out of the rain... errr, actually I'd probably skip that last one for new English learners not familiar with euphemism.... Anyway, "bored" and "tired" are probably somewhere in the middle, but for this purpose they fall into the later category, not the former. –  BradC Commented Dec 19, 2016 at 19:05

I'm going to have to answer, because it appears I'm the only person who thinks it's a valid, but obscure response:

"Your homework is so good today James!" said Miss Barrass.

"I was happy to do my homework Miss. I think that's why it is so good." he replied.

"Your homework is not so good today James!" said Miss Barrass.

"I was tired to do my homework Miss. I think that's why it is not so good." he replied.

It's almost certainly my perception, given all of the other answers, however the more I read this, the more I feel it's acceptable and perfectly valid. It's just not in common usage, which makes it sound strange.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged adjectives syntactic-analysis infinitives emotions esl or ask your own question .

• Featured on Meta
• Upcoming initiatives on Stack Overflow and across the Stack Exchange network...
• We spent a sprint addressing your requests — here’s how it went

Hot Network Questions

• Best way for a Solar martial artist to block lethal damage barehanded?
• Why are responses to an attack in a cycling race immediate?
• Is a desert planet with a small habitable area possible?
• Does it make sense to use a skyhook to launch and deorbit mega-satellite constellations now?
• Why is there not a test for diagonalizability of a matrix
• Can the differential be unitless while the variable have an unit in integration?
• Did Zapata ask a young revolutionary, "What is your name?" and then write that man's name on a piece of paper?
• If I Trace "Pickup", will I pickup?
• Rolling median of all K-length ranges
• Any alternative to lockdown browser?
• ForeignFunctionLoad / RawMemoryAllocate and c-struct that includes an array
• Can computer components be damaged if they stay off for a long time?
• Control visibility of bowings in lilypond
• How do we define addition?
• Challenge the appointment of the prime minister
• Equivalence of omniscience principles for natural numbers and analytic omniscience principles for Cauchy real numbers
• Would it be moral for Danish resitance in WW2 to kill collaborators?
• Why did Nigel Farage choose Clacton as the constituency to campaign in?
• Why do Electric Aircraft Seem to Eschew Photovoltaics?
• When do people say "Toiletten" in the plural?
• How can one apply to graduate school if their undergraduate university is uncooperative in providing the required information?
• How does a country without exit immigration check know you have overstayed?
• Why does black have a higher win rate here?
• Attach "variables" to objects to be used in Geometry Nodes

Get the Reddit app

A place for the pursuit of physical fitness goals. Please see the r/Fitness Wiki and FAQ at https://thefitness.wiki for help with common questions.

Workout makes me too tired to do homework?

I've had to cut way back on exercising lately because the physical strain every time I try to get back into running/swimming/weights exhausts me to the point where I'll accidentally fall asleep on my desk.

By the time I get home from the gym or a run I'll be so beat that it's very hard to muster the motivation to study (in college) because I'm so sleepy. These workouts aren't even particularly extreme and I would think that I eat enough. Does anyone else have this problem?