Our Library Student Assistants’ top five tips for study success
It is week four of the trimester, which means you are likely either:
- just starting to settle into University life, or
- just starting to realise exactly how busy University life can be!
If you are feeling more like option 2, there is no need to stress. Our incredible Library Student Assistants are students just like you, and they have all the tips and advice you could hope for on how to succeed in your studies – and use everything the library has to offer you!
Please enjoy these tips from Waterfront LSA Adi Kadam and Waurn Ponds LSA Rosie Ryan.
Tip 1: Review your unit guides and course map, and set up a schedule for all your assignments
Getting organised early can make a huge difference in managing your workload! Start by looking over your unit guides and course map to jot down all your key assignment dates. From there, create a simple schedule so you can see what’s due and when.
Breaking down big assignments into smaller steps with mini deadlines can make them feel less overwhelming. This way, you’ll be able to work consistently without last-minute stress. Having everything planned out from the start helps you feel prepared and stay on top of your studies week by week. – Adi
Tip 2: Develop a study routine to provide structure
The university lifestyle is often characterised by a lack of set routine, given the flexible nature of studying. However, developing a routine can help you prepare for your study sessions and know what to expect, which makes studying seem less like an overwhelming task. I found that with a routine, I procrastinated less and had more productive study sessions. Knowing that I had allocated study time also meant I enjoyed my breaks more!
There is no need to have a rigid routine, but having some structure really helped me to be more productive and organised. I particularly tried to arrange my study sessions to take place in the library, as that was an environment particularly conducive to focus and allowed me to fully step away from my study once I got home. – Rosie
Tip 3: Take advantage of the library’s study spaces
The library has study spaces for every kind of work style – whether you need a quiet spot to focus or a group area for collaborative projects. Getting into the habit of using these spaces helps you create a productive study routine. For solo study, quiet spaces are ideal for staying focused without distractions. If you’re working on a group project, bookable rooms allow you to work together without disturbing others. Having a dedicated study spot in the library also gives you easy access to resources, and the change of scenery can help with motivation. – Adi
Tip 4: Set achievable and realistic goals for each study session
I wish I started doing this earlier than I did. Previously, I would set many goals of have a general aim of ‘getting everything done.’ But I found it much more effective to have smaller, tangible goals that I could tick off. This marked my progress much better as I could have something realistic to work towards and achieve. I was then able to look back on what I did that day and see how productive I was! I personally would write my Key Goals, which were the essential goals for the day and then my Stretch Goals, which were additional things I could complete if I felt up to it or had extra time. – Rosie
Tip 5: Get comfortable with the library’s resources right from the start
The library is full of resources that can make studying a lot easier – as long as you know what’s available! From e-books and databases to research guides tailored to different courses, there’s something to support you in every subject. Spending a little time exploring these resources early on will save you loads of time and stress later.
Whether you’re diving into research, finding the right readings or working on an assignment, knowing where to find what you need can make everything feel more manageable. And remember, library staff are here to help you find your way if you’re ever unsure. Getting familiar with these tools from the beginning means you’ll be prepared for anything that comes your way. – Adi
Conclusion
As Adi already mentioned, the library is here to support you in your studies every single day. You can reach out to our live Library Chat or come see us at the service desk at any library campus. We look forward to helping you succeed at Deakin.