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Study skills and exam preparation

As we head into assessments, we’ve brought together some really useful information to help make this time as stress-free as possible for you.

Assessments can be a daunting part of university life and it’s only natural that you want to achieve your potential. We’re here to help you do that. There are a range of workshops to prepare you, individual support for specific concerns as well as wellbeing advice and resources available to maintain your health and wellbeing.

Helping your studies and revision

When it comes to revision, there’s no one-size-fits-all method. We understand that what works for your friends, might not work for you.

Our fantastic UniSkills Team offer a wide range of face-to-face and virtual support designed to develop your skills. Check out the UniSkills webpages for information about 1-2-1 support, online learning resources and tips on how to prepare for your exams.

The UniSkills Team also run regular workshops and webinars where you can dive deeper into a specific academic skill. Upcoming sessions include:

  • Become a Paraphrasing Pro
  • Conducting a Literature Review
  • Develop Your Proofreading and Editing Strategies
  • Developing Academic Writing
  • Effective Exam Preparation
  • Finding Academic Information
  • Introduction to Academic Writing
  • Returning to Learning
  • Using Harvard Referencing

What are you waiting for? Book your place today.

Top tips for revising

A clear and calm mindset can help you feel better about upcoming assessments. Read our top tips below for advice on getting exam ready.

Eat, sleep, plan, repeat

Eating, sleeping and planning are all as important as one another. Cramming as much revision as you can into the weeks leading up to your assessments will result in a lack of basic needs. Ensure you schedule time for eating well and getting enough sleep each night as well as time to revise and relax.

You do you

Try new methods while revising. There are a range of techniques and some will work better for you than others. If you find yourself getting restless while revising, mix it up a little. You might find your perfect revision system.

Set realistic goals

Start each study session with a clear goal of what you want to achieve. Don’t overset the mark, be realistic and set achievable goals. Not only will this help you organise your study plans, but it will also give you the fulfilment of ticking off your aims.

Sort your space

Noise, company, phone notifications and discomfort are just some of the reasons you may get distracted while studying. Before trying to get stuck in, take a moment to assess your surroundings and find the best place to work. A little reminder, the Catalyst has bookable study areas as well as quiet working spaces – perfect if you want some peace.

Be kind to yourself

Trying to stay calm and positive during your revision time can become difficult. Be sure to raise any concerns or worries you have with friends family, tutors or the wellness team. Make time for yourself through self-care, relaxing times or even planning something for you to look forward to.

male student revising studying at a desk in Catalyst laptop

Helping your health and wellbeing

Focusing on your assessments is important. But it’s also vital to maintain good mental health and wellbeing during this time.

You can help look after yourself by:

  • Taking regular breaks
  • Doing some exercise
  • Eating a balanced diet
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Drinking plenty of water
  • Getting outside for some fresh air
  • Taking time out to talk to friends and family

The Wellbeing Team are always on hand if you need support.

The Team offer a range of online workshops to help you get into the right mindset for your exams and assessments, including Why Worry?, Get Stuff Done!, and Perfectionisn’t.

You can also find self-help resources on the Wellbeing webpages such as books and guides, useful wellbeing apps and podcasts. You can also access Togetherall – a free 24/7 online community providing a choice of courses and resources to help you to manage your mental health and wellbeing.

We wish you all the best with this semester’s assessments.

March 24, 2023

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