This is a good question, and one I've been thinking about myself. I don't have a direct answer, but this is what's helped me. (1): 4x3 Dry Erase Board nearby

This is a good question, and one I've been thinking about myself. I don't have a direct answer, but this is what's helped me. (1): 4x3 Dry Erase Board nearby Computer, it might be because of having ADD but I find I do the best idea-refinement/drawing stuff out on a dry erase board, both because you can erase it easily and it involves some walking around. Thinking about it aloud and gesticulating helps me a lot as well, but I gesticulate quite a bit normally so that might be more specific to me. (2): Quiet place to work, best situation is to reserve a room your house/apartment/etc specifically devoted to working. I would say an office but office normally includes taxes, finances, faxes, etc (3): Have water within arms length and drink it often (4): Have a clear mind, vent out your mind before you get started and it will make it easier to be productive. Start with the dry erase board, it really helps to get started focusing.