[CrashTheBoard]

I actually have a huge writeup on this subject and have done a lot of research into it. I can link it somewhere if someone is interested.

The TL;DR is:

You should take lots of small breaks when practicing - IE, play a file through to its finish, take a 2-4 minute break. Don't spam retry.

Taking breaks is actually extremely vital to how our brains learn and process information. Taking relatively frequent breaks is good. - not just short term breaks when you're playing, but taking a week off every now and again will help you progress.

The human mind has a tendency to filter out background information - IE things that are repeated often - and your brain can get clogged up trying to process backlog.

Think of it like working out. You actually build muscle when you're taking breaks, not when you're lifting the weights.

Variety is another huge factor when it comes to learning.

In short:

Take plenty of breaks, they are way more likely to help you than hurt you
Try to spice up your gameplay, variety is very good

Also push yourself a lot. FFR's ranking system is extremely good at measuring certain skillsets but it sucks for encouraging people to actually improve. Going for AAA's is not how you challenge and push yourself.