How I Set Digital Boundaries During Exam Season

Exam season is stressful enough on its own. For many students, the real challenge is not just about opening the books; it is about avoiding distractions. For me, that distraction comes from doomscrolling on social media. One minute I am taking a quick break on TikTok or Instagram, and the next I have lost an hour watching motivational videos, ASMR clips, or random budgeting hacks. Sometimes, I even escape into a new series when I am avoiding a new chapter that feels too difficult.

This habit hurt my focus and wasted my precious study time. Eventually, I realised that I had to set digital boundaries if I wanted to succeed. These boundaries did not become perfect overnight, but they helped me stay productive and feel more in control during exam season. Here is what worked for me (and what might help other students too):

• Admit the distraction for what it is

The first step was honesty. I was not just relaxing, but I was stuck in doomscrolling. Realising that my phone was stealing valuable study hours was eye-opening. If you want to stay focused, you first must admit what is holding you back.

• Keep your phone out of reach

I started to switch off my phone and put it under my pillow. I used to tell myself that I just needed to check the time, but the truth is, the second I saw a notification, I would get distracted. Now, I simply switch my phone off and slip it under my pillow. It helps because I have the time on my laptop, so there is no real reason to keep checking my phone. This way, I remove the temptation before it even starts.

• Create free scrolling hours

Instead of banning myself from social media, I set clear times when I am allowed to scroll, usually after finishing a chapter or a study block. This way, I still enjoy my social media breaks without feeling guilty. A bonus is that I now treat scrolling as a reward, not a distraction.

• Use built-in tools (no paid apps needed)

Instead of paying for focus apps, I used what my phone already had. Most phones let you set app timers or focus mode for free. Even something as basic as turning on Do Not Disturb during study hours made a difference. These are free and student-budget friendly.

• Swap scrolling for low-cost breaks

When I felt the urge to grab my phone, I replaced it with healthy study breaks:

• Taking a short walk outside.
• Stretching in my room.
• Making a quick cup of tea.
• Breathing exercises.

All free, and honestly more refreshing than sinking into another endless scroll.

• Keep your bigger picture in sight

When temptation hit, I asked myself: is this helping me pass my exams? Usually, the answer was no. Sometimes I would even write my exam dates on sticky notes and place them near my desk as a reminder. Visual clues helped me remember why I needed to focus, and they did not cost me anything.

Setting digital boundaries for students does not have to include pricey subscriptions or fancy tools. Most of the time, it is about making small, intentional choices that help you take back control. If you are like me and struggle with avoiding distractions during exams, start with the free tools and strategies you already have.

Exams will always be tough, but you do not have to make them harder by letting your phone run the show. With simple, budget-friendly habits, you can protect your time, boost your focus, and make exam season a little less overwhelming.