How do you even "breakup" a friendship

I've heard that breaking up a friendship is often more painful than romantic breakups. I think is because when you get a partner you know there is a possibility of breaking up, but with friends that is not something you think would happened.

I have meaning to "breakup" with some of my friends. They are wonderful people, but not really my people. I always keep myself distanced from them and I'm not that great of a friend. But I don't think I can distance myself properly without hurting them even more... Do I just go straight to the point?? what should I even say? "hey our vibes don't match"!?!?? "sorry I need to focus on my studies" yk, that lie?!