#wininpeg

The Internet can be pretty distracting. A recent study showed that Internet users spent an average of just six minutes "on-task" before becoming unfocused and switching to social media or another online distraction. There are a few popular applications that you can pay for to limit distractions during your study time (Freedom, Concentrate, Anti-Social). Here are some free alternatives to help you roll up your sleeves and focus while you're studying.

1) Self-Control (Mac only)

Self-Control is a very simple Mac application that allows you to block a list of websites for a specified period of time. Creating a Blacklist will make those sites inaccessible. A Whitelist will only allow the listed sites to be accessed, all other Internet content will be Blacklisted. This remains in effect until the time runs out, even if you restart your computer or delete the application. 

2) I Am Studying (Chrome extension)

I Am Studying lives in your Chrome browser. When you set it to ON, it will block the sites on your Block List. You can add or remove sites as you wish and the program gives you a 10 minute break every hour. There is also a nice report generated to tell you where you're spending your time online.

3) LeechBlock (Firefox Add-on)

LeechBlock allows you to create six groups of blocked sites, each with its own set of rules. You can make the sites inaccessible during a certain time of day/week, or you can set time limits for how much you're allowed to use a site each hour or day (or specify other time periods). This add-on gives you lots of control over what parts of the Internet you're allowed to use. 

4) Mindful Browsing (Safari extension)

Mindful Browsing, for Safari users, makes blocking distracting sites easy. By clicking a little forbidden icon next to your address bar, you can designate a site as blocked. When you visit this site later you're greeted with a message. Sure, you can easily click through to allow yourself access, but you'll do so knowing full well that you're about to waste time. 

5) RescueTime (system and browser neutral)

RescueTime works in the background to track what websites and applications you're using. You can set goals to limit time at some activities and increase time at others. You can view your stats on your dashboard and you'll get a weekly email report. This probably works best for people with some self-control, but who are curious how much time they spend doing different things. 

6) WriteRoom (Mac, free version) or DarkRoom (PC)