Researchers from the University of Sydney have demonstrated that a short five minute pause can refresh attention while tackling a demanding task. The findings appear in a study published in Educational and Developmental Psychologist.
The experiment involved 72 university students who began with a challenging mathematical pre-test. The task lasted 20 minutes and was designed to capture sustained focus from the participants.
After the pre-test, participants were divided into three groups. The first group proceeded directly to a brief lesson on mental multiplication of two-digit numbers. The second group enjoyed a five minute break featuring a visible countdown on a computer screen to mark the end of the pause. The third group watched a first person video depicting a five minute walk through a rainforest setting.
Results showed that the groups who took a break performed better on the subsequent test. The nature walk video group correctly answered 60 percent of the questions, while the countdown break group achieved 53 percent correct responses. While the differences were modest, the researchers noted that both types of breaks were equally effective at reducing mental fatigue and maintaining performance, provided the break offered a distraction from the current task.
The researchers advised that any five minute pause should involve something different from the screen. They recommended stepping away from the computer or device, taking a deep breath, or sitting quietly to allow the brain a momentary reset. Surfing social media or other screen activity should not count as a rest period, as it keeps the mind engaged with the task or related stimuli.
Additionally, the study highlights the potential relevance of the Pomodoro technique, a time management method that cycles 25 minutes of focused work with a five minute break. The authors describe this approach as a practical framework that aligns with the observed benefits of a brief, intentional pause during intense mental work.
Past research already suggests that exposure to natural environments can help restore attention and concentration. However, applying that idea in a work or study context can be challenging when access to nature is limited. Some prior experiments indicated that watching nature scenes on video could have a restorative effect, but the current study found no strong support for this hypothesis as a universal substitute for real-world nature exposure.
In broader terms, the findings contribute to the understanding of cognitive recovery strategies that can support memory and problem solving during study or work sessions. By showing that a short, well-chosen pause can lessen cognitive fatigue, the study adds to a growing body of guidance for maximizing sustained mental performance in education and everyday tasks. As researchers continue to explore how breaks influence attention, practical tips for students and professionals alike include planning brief, non-screen breaks and using simple time cues to manage work cycles effectively. The work also points toward a broader investigation of how different kinds of rest influence learning outcomes and task efficiency over longer periods and in varied environments. In this sense, the five minute pause is not just a momentary relief but a potential element of strategic study habits that support memory, focus, and ongoing task engagement. The implications extend to classrooms, workplaces, and individual study routines as people search for accessible ways to maintain sharp thinking and reduce the pressure of complex cognitive challenges.