Top 3 tips for studying

1. Make a plan

When you come to setting out your study time, make a plan. 

My advice would be to start with an overall module plan. Make a note of your TMA's, iCMA's and emTMA's and put them in your calendar. Next, Come up with a weekly plan. This would include setting out blocks of time for your study, personal and work commitments (if you are in employment). Then next, when you come to your study time, have a plan on what you are working on. This could be working on a TMA or attend a tutorial etc. It is also good when planning to use the SMART targets. This stands for:

• Specific - What is it you are working on?
• Measurable - How will you know when you have done it?
• Achievable - Am I able to complete what I am set out to do?
• Realistic - Is it relevant to my studies or goal(s)?
• Timely - How long have I go to do this?

It is important that you try to stick to your targets. It’s good to share your planning with people around you so that they are aware of your schedule, and this may reduce distraction. This leads me on to the next tip.

2. Stay focused

As mentioned before, minimise distractions. share you study plans. Also, clear your working area. Is there anything on your working area that may cause any distractions?

Another staying focused tool that you could use is the Pomodoro Technique. How does this work I hear you ask?

Study time - 20 mins

Break - 5 Mins

This is then repeated 4 times. Then on the last break, you take a 20 min break. Also, it is a good idea to take a break away from your working area. This technique has been proven to increase focus and productivity. You can alter this tool by having 40 min study time and 10 min short break and 30 min long break. 

There are many places online that you can access tools to assist you with the Pomodoro Technique. Just google "Pomodoro Technique". 

3. Ask Questions

Every student encounters a part in their courses where we become stuck. And for some of us, that can be quite a lot. 

If you are stuck, there are people out there to support you. First things first. Ask your tutor. They are the subject expert so they may be able to provide you with an answer or provide you with a method of finding the answer. If it is non-module related, speak to the Student Support Team. Finaly, if it is regarding your student experience, the Student Leadership Team are there to listen to your questions and concerns. 

I hope you find these tips helpful. And I wish you every success with your learning.