Attention Span Frequently Asked Questions

Your Attention span - q & a

"How Can I Do What Must Be Done, When Needed, For as Long as Needed, Whether I Want to or Not, and Enjoy the Process?"

Welcome to the ultimate guide to improving your Attention Span! Are you tired of feeling like you can't concentrate for more than a few minutes at a time? Do you find yourself easily distracted, unable to stay focused on important tasks? Are you worried that your children have terrible mental focus? You're not alone.

In today's fast-paced world, our attention is constantly being pulled in different directions, making it difficult to stay on track. But don't worry, we're here to help. Attention Span F.A.Q. is filled with answers to all your burning questions about your attention span, from the science behind why we get distracted to practical tips for boosting your focus and productivity. So, let's dive in and discover the secrets to a sharper, more focused mind!

What is meant by attention span?

Attention span refers to the amount of time someone can focus on a task, conversation, or thought without being distracted. It is the duration of time during which a person can concentrate on a specific task before their mind wanders off to something else.

Attention span can be measured in terms of "transient attention" or "selective sustained attention" depending on the type of attention being used.

While it varies with context and the type of task, a longer attention span usually helps individuals complete tasks and stay organized. Studies have shown that attention span in humans is at its highest level in their early 40s and then gradually declines with age

How long is the average attention span?

A popular question in this age of global Digital Distraction concerns getting solid facts on how long we should be able to pay Attention on average and there is only one true, genuine answer:

"It depends. We don't really know. Let's test your ability to maintain Awareness of a target under varying conditions and see how your concentrated Awareness behaves."

That would be an honest answer. You will not find that answer, however, because everybody wants to sell you something and will invent data to do so. After all, you cannot pocket billions in profits unless you invent arbitrary baselines against which people do not measure, thus ensuring they want your product in order to meet your arbitrary, profit-motivated hocus pocus. 

Sorry, folks, but that's how the game is run. Any numbers you see have an agenda behind them. Thanks to these kinds of underhanded pseudo-scientific practices, people end up labelling themselves and, worse, living their lives by that label. It's tragic, and utterly immoral.

An example you'll easily find on the internet is 'Average Attention Span for Children by Age.'

Typically, you end up on a website of a for-profit business with a seemingly legitimate, impressive accounts of 'Average Attention Spans for Children' that just so happen to be far above what any normal child will demonstrate in a practical environment in today's digital society. 

After all, what if you discovered that your child is totally normal, but merely unwilling to sit in a boring environment taking boring orders for no apparent reason he or she can fathom?

Why, then you might NOT shell out cash for counseling, doctors, and drugs to sedate your child like a cow.

On those 'agenda-carrying' websites, you can be sure as the sun rises and sets that the result will indicate your child is 'wildly out of control' when you see those numbers. Time to buy something, right?

Time to pay somebody who knows nothing about the true nature of Attention Control, but who can legally prescribe rebranded narcotics for children, or even for yourself.  It just so happens that bank accounts get fat while the technology responsible for weak Attention Spans grows more prevelant, creating more potential customers. Yaaaay!

Do a web search on the topic of average Attention Span and you'll get back tens of thousands of web results, and every single one of them nonsense. There is no such thing as an 'AVERAGE ATTENTION SPAN.' Billions of people, thousands of years of opportunity to establish the facts, and it hasn't been accurately proven. Asking the question is like asking, "WHAT IS THE AVERAGE HUMAN ABILITY TO LOVE?"

No Average Human Attention Span Exists in Fact or Science.

It does not exist. Every web result claiming a particular amount of time, including broken out by age, is made up and unscientific, typically having to do with some form of marketing and sales tracking of behavior on website pages, all in the interest of relieving more customers of their hard-earned cash to buy some product or another.

Lab testing establishes nothing of the sort, either, but can only assess one's performance on the particular testing method, which may have little to do with real-world application, even as it reveals a possible underlying medical condition for an individual.

If there were thousands of copies of yourself walking around, we could probably gather you all together and come up with baselines for different types of attentional use, but only for the population of you's. They would not apply to anybody else.

Again: THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS AN AVERAGE HUMAN ATTENTION SPAN, AND THERE IS NO GENUINE ESTABLISHED SCIENTIFIC FACTS on the topic. Anybody claiming so is full of hot air.

Most likely, any claims labelling themselves 'scientific' are brought to you by someone who has never even tested their own spans in shifting scenarios to build their own personal baseline because they know it's not something that can be translated into hard science fact. Not unlike building a scientific basis for, "What is the average mediational span?" or...

  • "What is the Average Conscious Awareness, gathered and concentrated to a point?" 
  • "What is the average non-concentrated Awareness targeted upon a large external object in a panoramic spotlight mode versus internally-targeted Awarness in restrictively tight close-up to a physical sensation?" 
  • What is the scope and scale of my Attention Bubble (spotlight, lens, etc.) when calm versus frightened?
  • What is the Span of my Awareness? 
  • What is the Span of my concentrated Awareness? 

That last one is the question scientists avoid because they haven't a clue. They avoid it because that is the official definition of Attention: Concentrated Awareness. I DARE you to find a scientific test for it. Why do you think so many scientists in the field of 'Attention Research' end up in Meditation classes?

Because they don't know anymore than you do about the actual nature of the ability, and are forced to turn to the very discplines they accuse of being unscientific mumbo jumbo spirituality.

These are difficult questions with no definitive answers for science, yet you can answer them with no problem whatsoever using only a little effort, a timer, and something to record the results.

The Average Attention Span Numbers You Need: Your Personal Numbers!

The only question you need to answer is 'WHAT IS MY AVERAGE ATTENTION SPAN?" or others such as

  • What is my Auditory Attention Span when listening to Classical Music versus Gangster Rap?
  • What is my Visual Imagery Attention Span when holding a the simple shape of a red square in my thought?
  • How long can I maintain a clear Attention signal when engaged in Task A vs Task B?
  • How long can I hold steady when studying my math homework on a cool day outside in the park vs sitting in my room with the television running in the background?
  • How long can I sit still and quiet before I start fidgetting around for something to break up the monotony?
  • How long can I listen to my daughter express her excitement over a new doll while the cheering sound of the football game I want to watch rises in the background?
  • How well can I attend to my wife's conversation when we're getting along versus when she's getting on my nerves?
  • How long can I remain focused on cooking a meal when there's risk of disapproving guests versus when cooking for myself?
  • How long can I keep thoughts from overwhelming me under numerous shifting conditions?
  • How long can I breathe on purpose before I mistakenly allow my body to take over automatically?
  • How long is my Attention Span when I'm in a great mood versus when I'm feeling blaaaaaah?
  • How well can I concentrate when I'm calm versus when I'm scared or worried?
  • How long can I remain locked onto great information provided by a training video before losing focus?
  • How long can I follow a speech on the topic of the burrowing habits of rabbits versus the the topic of the best new outfits to have in my wardrobe to impress the opposite sex?
  • "WHAT IS [insert person here - son, daughter, friend, etc.]'s ATTENTION SPAN UNDER THIS OR THAT CONDITIONS?

They are proper inquires because, in EVERY CASE, they can be measured, tracked, and improved upon SCIENTIFICALLY without the help of a medical professional (most of whom possess no Attention Training skills, let alone insight into how to master your own), and are not just scientifically approached but factually established.

For example, if you are challenged to hold your Attention onto a target without losing focus, you can measure how long you're able to do it before losing your connection and becoming distracted.

You can do the same in cooperation with another person whose Attention characteristics are to be assessed.

There are so many different applications to Attention use that every single one of them - in varying situations - would have to be covered, and the numbers involved are always shifting depending on mood, energy level, interest level, nutrition and health, time of day, and type of activity. 

You may be quite handy at LISTENING to a melody for minutes without letting something take you off target, but have a really hard time focusing on a visual representation of the same melody as notated in sheet music notation with bars, notes, pauses, scales and the like.

Your auditory Attention Span may be stronger than your ability to pay Attention so smells or your power to hold a mental image on the stage of your mind.  

Again, too many varioables, and too many billions of human beings with too many shifting scenarios and no way to concretely establish a normative baseline for the species today versus, say, thirty years ago, where NO DATA EVEN EXISTS.

Everything you read on the topic today is completely made up, but you and anybody else is perfectly capable of establishing your own baselines in particular instances, under particular circumstances, keeping in mind that shifting even the smallest variable can affect the results.

For example, you may find that you can hold to consecuative lines of text on a page for five or ten minutes before boredom sets in or interest or motivation wanes. Yet, if you have $10,000 up for grabs as reward for doing it, your time might be much better.

For the purpose of improving your Attention Span, ALL MEASUREMENTS MUST BE PERSONAL to yourself. This is important because you will train to boost power wherever you find a weakness, whether it be visual, auditory, kinesthetic (feel), or imagination-related (holding an image or idea in thought without letting it fade).

What are the signs of a short attention span?

According to, some signs of a short attention span include difficulty focusing on tasks, partially completing tasks, struggling to organize materials, and difficulty reading.

A short attention span can also lead to decreased productivity at work and limit what people can enjoy. 

It can be caused by ADHD, dealing with too many tasks at once, and depression. 

If a short attention span is impacting daily tasks, seeking medical help  or attention control training (or both) may be necessary.

What causes a short attention span?

A short attention span can negatively impact memory and learning, and it takes a lot of energy to pull oneself back to tasks after being distracted.

However, there are several effective strategies to improve attention spans, such as:


  • Boosting your attention fitness level by learning how to do Attention Control Training Drills
  • Getting more sleep
  • Setting clear boundaries at home, at work, and in your social life to ensure that your schedule, activities, and people you hang around are helpful for reducing distraction and improving focus.
  • Practicing Mindfulness Meditation
  • Minimizing screentime exposure and overexposure to digital technology products that serve as distracting influences keeping you from more important tasks.

Is it Possible to Increase My Attention Span?

Yes, it's possible to increase your attention span. As technology has advanced, society's fast-paced and convenience-oriented mindset has contributed to a decrease in attention spans. Signs of a short attention span include missing important details, being easily distracted, and difficulty communicating.

However, there are several ways to improve your attention span, including scheduling study periods, minimizing distractions, taking breaks, practicing relaxation techniques, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly.

For children with ADHD, cognitive exercise games can also help improve concentration. Parents can help their children improve their attention span by providing clear instructions, breaking down tasks, and making mundane tasks engaging.

Additionally, individuals can work on improving their ability to cope with boredom, patience, and ability to take an interest in anything.

The benefits of increasing one's attention span include being more effective and productive, better at listening and communicating, better at one's hobbies, and improving memory and problem-solving skills.

How do I improve my attention span?

Attention span refers to the amount of time someone can focus on a task, conversation, or thought without being distracted.

To improve your attention span, you can try various methods such as meditation, attentive listening, reading, and exercise. In fact, any activity that challenges your attention in new and unique ways, especially if they require you to keep hold of your attention for extended periods, is wonderful.

Meditation and exercise can help improve mental health and increase attention span, as shown by research studies. Walking briskly for 30 minutes a day four or five times a week can also help improve attention span.

It is important to avoid multitasking, prioritize tasks, take breaks, and eliminate unnecessary distractions to increase attention span.

Additionally, finding what works best for each individual in terms of daily routines and exercises can also help improve focus and productivity.

There are several reasons why attention spans can be short. A short attention span can be a sign of numerous conditions like:


  • Learning Disorders such as dyslexia or ADHD.
  • Lack of sleep and poor sleep quality
  • Strong emotions
  • Too many competing demands
  • Addiction to Digital Technology or Screentime burnout
  • Mental or biological health conditions either secret or yet to be discovered are also contributing factors.

Can Digital Technology and Gaming affect my attention span?

Yes, technology can affect attention span. Studies have found that people spend an average of around 47 seconds focused on a given screen before their attention wanders elsewhere.

Over-reliance on technology has shortened our attention span from twelve minutes to five minutes, according to one study.

Additionally, the increase in screen time during the pandemic has created concern about the impact on attention span. Instant gratification and the expectation of quick results from technology have also warped our perception of time.

While technology is not the only factor in distractibility, it is a significant contributor.

Social media is also believed to affect attention spans. To improve attention span, minimizing screen time, taking breaks, practicing relaxation techniques, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and taking notes can be helpful.

Seeking medical help may be necessary if attention span is impacting daily tasks.

Can ADHD cause a short attention span?

Yes, ADHD (and ADD, Attention Deficit Disorder (without hyperactivity) is a condition that can cause a short attention span, along with other symptoms such as difficulty listening to others, forgetfulness, and being easily distracted. 

It's not just a condition that affects children; adults can also experience symptoms of ADHD.

What is Multi-tasking and Why is it Bad for My Attention Span?

Multitasking refers to working on multiple tasks simultaneously or switching rapidly between tasks.

Research suggests that the human brain is not efficient at handling multiple tasks at once, which can lead to reduced productivity, comprehension, and attention.

Multitasking can cause distraction, slower performance, impaired executive function, and higher error rates.

Moreover, heavy media multitasking can lead to reduced short-term and long-term memory.

People who frequently perform two or more media-related activities at once tend to have increased attention lapses and poorer memory.

Therefore, focusing on a single task at a time is a more effective approach to improve attention span and concentration.

What are some Concentration Exercises I Can Do?

There are many concentration exercises you can do to improve your focus and attention span. Some examples include:

1. Make notes or a to-do list to help you prioritize tasks and stay organized.

2. Meditate for a few minutes each day to improve your mindfulness and focus on the present moment.

3. Read a long book to challenge your attention span and improve your ability to concentrate for longer periods.

4. Exercise your body to reduce stress and increase blood flow to the brain, which can improve focus and concentration.

5. Practice active listening and try to focus on minor details in your environment to improve your ability to concentrate on one thing at a time.

How can I stay focused for longer periods of time?

To stay focused for longer periods of time, there are several strategies you can try. First, try to minimize screen time and remove distractions.

Taking breaks and practicing relaxation techniques such as mindful walking and breathing, visualization and guided imagery, and meditation can also help improve focus. 

Additionally, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and taking notes can help to improve attention span. 

It's important to note that attention span can vary from person to person, but if you are experiencing difficulty focusing on tasks and decreased productivity, consider training your attention for superior performance, and make sure to address any underlying medical conditions, if any.

How can I Avoid Distractions?

Distractions can be a major hindrance to maintaining focus and productivity. One effective strategy to avoid distractions is to minimize screen time and take regular breaks to relax and recharge.

Practicing relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation can also help increase attention, focus, and concentration.

Staying hydrated and exercising regularly can also improve brain function and help reduce distractions.

Another effective strategy is to take notes while reading or listening to a podcast, as this can help improve memory and problem-solving skills.

Additionally, practicing active listening and avoiding multitasking can also help improve focus and avoid distractions.

It's important to seek medical help if your short attention span is impacting daily tasks.

Remember, distractions are inevitable, but by implementing these strategies, you can improve your ability to stay focused and minimize the impact of distractions on your work.

Are certain foods helpful for improving attention span?

Foods that are good for improving attention span include protein-rich foods like meat, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, lentils, cheese, and nuts.

Additionally, combining protein with complex carbs that are high in fiber and low in sugar may help manage ADHD symptoms better during the day.

A balanced breakfast with high-quality protein and complex carbohydrates from whole grains, fruits, and/or vegetables is recommended for children with ADHD.

It is also advised to include a mix of vegetables, whole grains, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids in most meals and schedule regular meal and snack times to manage ADHD symptoms.

Certain foods like wheat, dairy, corn, soy, eggs, nuts, and citrus foods can affect brain functioning and contribute to distractibility, so avoiding them may also be helpful.

How can I improve my memory and problem-solving skills?

Improving memory and problem-solving skills can be achieved through various techniques.


  • One of them is minimizing screen time.
  • Taking breaks and practicing relaxation techniques can help improve focus and reduce stress.
  • Staying hydrated is also crucial for cognitive function.
  • Regular exercise can increase blood flow to the brain and promote the growth of new brain cells.
  • Additionally, taking notes can help with retention and recall.
  • For ADHD sufferers dealing with memory and problem-solving issues, certain dietary changes can be made.
  • Avoiding certain foods like wheat, dairy, corn, soy, eggs, nuts, and citrus foods.
  • Limiting sugary foods, simple carbohydrates, caffeine, and artificial additives, can help manage symptoms.
  • It's also important to include protein-rich foods like meat, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, lentils, cheese, and nuts, along with complex carbs high in fiber and low in sugar, and scheduling regular meal and snack times to manage ADHD symptoms.

What role does sleep play in attention span?

Sleep plays a crucial role in attention span. Lack of sleep can lead to decreased alertness and attention, lower concentration levels, and slower response times. 

When people do not get enough sleep, their cognitive abilities decline, making it more difficult to focus and think clearly. This can negatively affect work performance and relationships and lead to mood problems like anger and depression. 

On the other hand, getting enough sleep improves learning, memory, and insight, and allows the body to repair and restore itself on a cellular level. 

Therefore, it is important to prioritize getting enough sleep to maintain attention span and cognitive abilities.

What are some practical tips for improving attention span?

Although we now live in an AI-fueled Digital Technology race that is doing massive damage to the world's aggregate average attention span, we can use simple strategies and techniques to compensate for our exposure to distracting tools and give us the attention skills we need to excel in any area. Here are seven valuable tips for improving attention span:

  • Schedule study periods and set clear goals for each session.
  • Minimize distractions by turning off notifications and finding a quiet study space.
  • Take breaks every 25-30 minutes to avoid burnout and refresh the mind. This is called the 'Pomodoro Method,' that of training your brain to accept shorter, solid blocks of productivity with brief breaks to recover befor launching into the next productive block. 
  • Research shows that Pomodoro approaches helps lengthen overall attention to a project by incorporating brief rest periods to allow attention bioware to recover from each previous effort. Kind of like a boxer taking a breather in their corner of the ring between bouts.
  • Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Get enough sleep to ensure the mind is well-rested and alert.
  • Exercise regularly to improve overall cognitive function and increase focus.

Incorporating as many of these suggestions into a flowing day's schedule will help you move in a straighter line toward your goals as you build habits that give you the best chance of being able to concentrate when you need to, for as long as you need to.

Is Attention Span a Good Indicator of Intelligence?

There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that attention span is a good indicator of intelligence. However, research has shown that children with poor attention span tend to struggle with problem-solving skills and have lower academic achievement. 

It is possible to increase attention span through various techniques, including attention training. 

Improving attention span can have many benefits, such as enhanced academic performance, better social skills, and increased productivity in daily life. Therefore, it is important for parents to help their children improve their attention span from an early age.

Can meditation help improve attention span?

Yes, meditation can help improve attention span, especially in individuals with ADHD. Empirical evidence supports the use of meditation, particularly mindfulness meditation, for inattention in ADHD. 

Meditation helps the mind become calm and focused by releasing happy hormones that fight against the effects of excess adrenaline. 

Studies have also found that meditation thickens the prefrontal cortex of the brain, which is responsible for impulse control, focus, and planning. 

Mindfulness meditation, such as Yoga, is a popular method for kids and adults to control and manage the symptoms of ADHD while also providing additional benefits such as weight loss.

How can I help my child improve their attention span?

If your child has issues with a Short Attention Span, and you want them to have a better Attention Span, including increased self-control and calmness, then we've got good news for you. Parents can help their children improve their attention span by taking a little extra time to remember that a child is an inexperienced learner who needs your good example in order to have a reference on what to do when it comes to being focused. Here are some ideas to make things easier:

  • Providing clear and concise instructions
  • Break down tasks into smaller steps
  • Make mundane, boring tasks a little bit more engaging
  • Encourage physical activity because research shows that physical exercise helps our attention span.
  • Offer kids nutritious food and adequate rest.
  • Praise the child's effort instead of just the outcome because it helps their motivation to maintain their focus.
  • For children with ADHD, cognitive exercise games can help improve their concentration and manage their emotions. Examples of cognitive exercises include playing the coin game, practicing relaxation and positive imagery, mind-body integration, and solving crossword and picture puzzles.

Additionally, parents can take the opportunity to learn how to to Attention Control, Mental Concentration, Mental Focus, and Mindfulness Exercise Training Drills in order to learn techniques to pass on as a gift to make a child's life much easier and rewarding.

How Long Should a Child's Attention Span Be?

According to childhood development experts, a child's attention span should be around two to three minutes for each year of their age

For toddlers, attention span typically remains between 3 and 6 minutes. 

However, it's worth noting that several factors such as hunger, tiredness, and interest level can impact a child's ability to concentrate

If a child's attention span is shorter than average, parents should consider addressing it using strategies such as creativity, fidgets, short breaks, and frequent check-ins. 

It's also essential to note that poor attention span can lead to lower academic achievement and difficulties with problem-solving skills, as mentioned in the introduction. 

Therefore, parents should seek professional assistance to address attention issues early on.

Is it True Chewing Gum Helps Attention Span?

Yes, there is evidence to suggest that chewing gum can help improve attention span.

Studies have found that chewing gum can enhance concentration during tasks that require continuous monitoring and improve performance on memory and attention-based tasks.

Chewing gum increases the flow of oxygen to regions of the brain responsible for attention, making people more alert and enhancing their reflexes.

While attention span is not necessarily a good indicator of intelligence, poor attention span can lead to struggles with problem-solving skills and lower academic achievement.

Improving attention span can have many benefits, such as enhanced academic performance, better social skills, and increased productivity in daily life.

You capitalize the word 'attention.' Why is that?

Because Attention is you.

It is the formal title I use in addressing you.

I'm communicating to your true self, so worthy of the honor, that exists on the other side of your distracting mental habits. 

Attention is who and what you are becoming, and always were, but were bamboozled into forgetting as society conditioned you into your current Attention habits. 

As you break those chains by using your Awareness of yourself to walk free of distraction, your mental powers will unfold.

That 'You' earns the capitalization, because that you is very, very special, and rare.

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