How can I stay focused on a 20-page organic chemistry lab report when I have severe ADHD and a tight Friday deadline?

Break the report into distinct cognitive modes rather than trying to tackle it as one linear 20-page document. Since you're getting bogged down in small details during data analysis, you're likely switching between "big picture" synthesis and "minute" calculation too often. This constant shifting is exhausting for an ADHD brain. Instead, dedicate specific blocks of time exclusively to one type of task. Spend two hours only on the raw calculations, then take a complete break before switching to the discussion section. By separating the mechanical data entry from the conceptual writing, you reduce the mental friction that leads to distraction. To avoid burning out before Friday, stop aiming for deep concentration for several hours straight. That's often an unrealistic goal that leads to paralysis when you inevitably lose focus. Instead, use a "low-friction" entry point. If you're staring at a blank page for the results section, tell yourself you'll only format three tables or write two captions. Often, the hardest part is the transition into the work; once you've handled a few small, concrete details, the momentum usually carries you into a flow state. If you find yourself obsessing over a single decimal point or a specific phrasing in the introduction, highlight that section in red and move on. Treat those details as a separate "polishing" phase to be handled only after the bulk of the content is drafted. Since you're a sophomore chemistry major, you know that the logic of a lab report follows a strict hierarchy. Focus on the skeleton first. Outline your main arguments and the specific data points needed to support each claim in the discussion. When you have a roadmap, your brain doesn't have to work as hard to remember where you're going, which frees up cognitive energy to handle the complex organic chemistry analysis. If you feel the urge to distract yourself, change your physical environment or stand up for five minutes to reset your sensory input. This prevents the mental stagnation that often mimics burnout.