Increase task productivity by over 50% with just five-minute ‘brain breaks’

A recent study has found that taking a five-minute ‘brain break’ can significantly enhance performance and productivity in subsequent tasks, with an increase of over 50%.

The University of Sydney conducted an experiment involving 72 students who participated in a self-taught lesson and two challenging mental math tests.

It was discovered that those who took a five-minute break between the tasks achieved scores that were 57% higher on average in the second test, even after accounting for other factors of ability, compared to those who continued without stopping.

Both groups, whether they took unstructured breaks or watched a relaxing nature video, performed better in the second challenge than their peers who didn’t rest.

Associate Professor in Educational Psychology, Paul Ginns, emphasized that the significant improvements gained from taking an attention-restoring ‘brain break’ can be applied in various environments, including offices and classrooms.

In the University of Sydney experiment, 72 students undertook a self-taught lesson and two gruelling mental maths tests. Those who were allowed a five minute break between the tasks averaged 57 per cent higher marks – when other ability factors were taken into account – in the second test than those who powered through without stopping

‘While this study was conducted on university students, I’m pretty confident that these results can be applied to younger people and older people,’ he said.

‘Having a rest is not just about cognitive function, it’s also about recharging your emotional batteries. This is advice we give to children.

‘It’s an easy productivity hack that is accessible to everyone.’

He said the study provided evidence for the effectiveness of the Pomodoro Technique, which advocates a five-minute break after every 25 minutes of concentrated work.