Redwan is a current Postgrad student and Postgrad Engagement Assistant at the SU, collecting all this knowledge into a expert guide to studying well! Find out more below!
Redwan is a current Postgrad student and Postgrad Engagement Assistant at the SU, collecting all this knowledge into a expert guide to studying well! Find out more below!
Exams, deadlines, and the pressure to perform can often feel overwhelming. Whether you’re an undergraduate or postgraduate student, finding the right study techniques and maintaining balance can make all the difference. Here are a few strategies to help you stay focused, manage stress, and make the most of your study time.
Experiment with different techniques
One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to studying. If you’re struggling to maintain focus or retain information, it may be time to experiment with different methods. Below are some commonly used techniques to help you get started.
Don’t hesitate to try out new tactics as you never know what might click for you.
If you are a postgraduate student or a final-year undergraduate student managing more complex material or conducting independent research, mixing in a few techniques, along with finding a study group with peers who you can revise with, can not only help with consolidating your understanding but also provide valuable social interaction, foster collaboration, and help reduce stress by sharing challenges and successes.
Change your study setting
Sometimes, the right environment is all you need to boost your productivity. Queen Mary has plenty of great spots around campus for studying. Whether you prefer the quiet atmosphere or collaborative settings, there are options across all of our campuses. A full list of study spaces can be found on the library website. As postgraduate taught and research students, you also have access to PG-specific spaces which we have written about previously.
Did you know that QMUL students also have access to the Senate House Library and the British Library? You can find out more about how to get your free membership and use these spaces here. Changing your location can provide you with a fresh perspective and you can opt for non-traditional study spaces like local cafes and libraries too.
Don’t forget to take breaks
It can be tempting to power through study sessions without stopping, especially as deadlines and exams approach. However, taking regular breaks is just as crucial for maintaining focus and productivity. Stretching your legs around campus, grabbing a snack at one of the shops on or around campus, or simply stepping away from your screen for a few minutes can give your brain the reset it needs to keep going strong. You can check out our Study Well page to see what’s happening on campus during exam and deadline season to help you study better, along with resources that you might find helpful. You can also check out the full list of activities on campus as our student groups are often running various fun activities for you to take a break where you can also meet new friends or enjoy an activity with existing ones! Remember, your work will be more effective when you take care of your physical and mental well-being.
Ask for help when you need it
Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed. There are plenty of resources available to support you. QMSU offers a range of services that are listed at the bottom of our Study Well page. The library and your schools/institutes also provide various drop-ins and workshops to help you with your studies and revisions. Check your module organiser’s office hours and drop-in if you can to discuss any challenges with them. As postgraduate students, especially postgraduate researchers, you are likely to have ever more specialised support through your supervisors. All undergraduate and postgraduate taught students should have an assigned personal tutor/academic advisor who you can reach out to for support as well.
If you need a break from studying, the SU has social events and relaxation spaces that can help you recharge. And, of course, your friends and colleagues are there to support you as well!
Remember, no matter where you are in your academic journey, it’s important to find what works best for you and reach out when you need it. We’re all in this together, so let’s make the most of the Study Well campaign and support each other through the exam season!