Study Toolbox: General Study Tips

Organise your study space

There is no right or wrong place to study, however, most students find it helps if they have:

• A quiet place to study where it is reasonably private and free from interruptions.

• A desk and a comfortable chair.

• A space where you can store and easily access study supplies.

• Decide how you want to store your notes, assignments and other course materials.  This may be filing trays, exercise books or folders with page dividers.

• A year long wall planner is an excellent way to identify when assignments are due and makes it very clear how much time you have to complete each assignment.

• A computer, if you share a computer negotiate a timetable so it is available when you need it or take note of where the SIT computer labs are and when they are open.

Remove distractions

Study in a space where you will not be disturbed.  Turn off your phone and other digital devices.  When you are distracted you are unable to focus which wastes your study time.

Make a study plan

Plan when and what you will study.  A study timetable or diary is a great way to organise your study.  Include specific tasks to be completed and the time each is expected to take.  Set realistic goals of what you want to achieve in each study session.

Develop a study routine

Studying at the same time and in the same place will help you stick to your study plan.

Take regular breaks

Short 10 - 15 minute breaks every hour helps improve your focus and can boost your intake of information.  Be disciplined in the length of your break.

Use summarising tools

Use a variety of summarising tools to stay interested in what you are studying.  Some summarising tools are mind maps, compare and contrast tables, flash cards, bullet points and timelines.

Keep balance in your life

You will not be able to study effectively if you do not look after yourself.  So make sure you get adequate food, exercise, sleep and relaxation.