The value of short breaks
When people are busy, taking a break can seem like a waste of time. Research into attention, however, suggests that pauses may help people remain effective during long work or study. A useful break does not have to (1) ________ for very long. Even a few minutes away from a demanding task can give the mind a chance to recover. The point is to (2) ________ attention from the activity rather than keep thinking about it. Standing up, getting some water or looking outside may be enough to provide a change of (3) ________, although breaks are less effective if they turn into long interruptions. It can (4) ________ be helpful to decide in advance when to return to work. People also differ in how often they need to pause, so there is little (5) ________ in following someone else's routine exactly. The aim is to find a pattern that allows concentration to be (6) ________ over time. Once a suitable rhythm has been (7) ________, short breaks can become part of the working day without getting (8) ________ the way of progress.