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How Can Reading Improve Concentration? 

Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Struggling to stay focused? You’re not alone, but the simple act of picking up a book might help. The link between reading and concentration is powerful. Reading requires your brain to slow down, absorb information, and stay with one task making it a practical tool to sharpen focus. 

Why Reading Is Mental Strength Training 

In a world full of distractions, reading is one of the few activities that demands sustained attention. Whether it’s a novel, article, or even a comic, focused reading gently stretches your ability to concentrate over time. 

Here’s how focus through reading works: 

Reduced mental noise:  

Reading helps quiet racing thoughts and trains your mind to engage deeply with a single task. 

Builds mental stamina:  

Just like physical exercise, consistent reading sessions strengthen your ability to stay focused longer. 

Improves comprehension and retention:  

When done regularly, it supports memory and information processing, key parts of focus. 

You don’t need to read for hours. Start with 10–15 minutes a day, ideally in a quiet space, and choose material that genuinely interests you. Gradually, you’ll notice your attention span improvement in other areas too like work, studying, or conversations. 

Reading is more than a hobby, it’s a focus-building habit. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to better understand how brain imaging can inform ADHD treatment.  

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD difficulty concentrating.  

Phoebe Carter, MSc
Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.