Hey, we are Terri and Lucy, two third year Geography and Psychology students (and Student Mentors) here to give you our best study tips!
Let's get right into it.
- Make the most of your time: Do you have a gap between lectures, seminars, labs and meetings? Then why not try going to a study space during that free time. Plan a list of goals for that study session and really make the most of your time.
- Staying focused: Want to improve focus and decrease distractions when writing and reading long papers? We recommend playing instrumental music, as music with no lyrics makes it easier for us to focus.
- Study buddies: Reach out to your friends and coursemates and invite them on a study date - having someone else to hold you accountable for not studying or showing up can make sure you get work done (this is known as body doubling!). You might want to book a group study room in the library for this.
- Work routines: Create specific working routines to help get into that study mindset. Terri only drinks coffee when doing academic work and always works at a desk or in a study space. Lucy always goes to the library to complete assignments.
- Rewards are important: Develop your own reward system. e.g. 20 minutes of work, then 20 minutes of fun, a square of chocolate or TikTok time.
Find the balance: Ensure everything is balanced. Separate work from academia and social life so you don’t burn out. Breaks are important.- Chat to your coursemates: Have a group chat with your coursemates - having a judgement-free space to ask your questions when you’re unsure can help you get through challenging assignments.
- Mix things up: Try out different study spaces to find a place that work best for you. Terri recommends Muirhead Tower, the Medical School Library and The Guild as they are quieter, have plug sockets and are near coffee shops. Lucy recommends the Teaching and Learning Building, the Murray Learning Centre and The Link (inside 52 Pritchatts Road).
Don’t be afraid to ask for help - Wellbeing Officers, Tutors, Lecturers, Guild Advice and the Student Mentors are more than happy to help you.
Best of luck with all assignments and exams!