A student sat at a table typing on a laptop

Top tips for staying on top of Uni work

Second-year School of Law and Social Justice student Natasha gives her top tips for staying on top of university work.

Keeping on top of university work can be a struggle so here's my 5 amazing top tips on how you can work smarter and use your time effectivity.

1. Always have a diary!

This is the best way to keep organised.

As soon as you are given the work from your modules, plan when you will complete the work and when the deadline is. Putting in your seminars and lectures is always a great way to keep track of when the work needs to be done.

2. Highlight your reading

For each module you will be asked to read substantive amounts. My best way to keep track of reading is to write each module and what reading is required. Then each day of the week you can dip in and out of your reading and tick off when it is done.

Try to do your readings as you go through the course as you do not want to read so much when you come to the exam period, you need all your notes in front of you.

A good approach to the reading is to read for 10 minutes then recall everything you remember from what you have read. Never read a lot of pages at once, you want to take in all the information and stay focused.

3. Minimise your lecture notes

Try not to write down everything the lecturer says without understanding. Too many words can be overwhelming, so try to reduce your words and write down key points. You can build on these points when you are doing extra readings for your module.

4. Take breaks!

This is so important to maintain focus and achieve the best of your ability. Always take the time to reflect on your work, working two or more hours straight will affect your focus and may add a lot of stress to yourself.

Always take walks, go outside, drink water or listen to music, etc. There are lots of ways to take breaks!

5. Asking for help

Don’t be afraid to ask for support. The University offer so much help throughout your degree and provides advice on any issues you may face.

Speaking to friends on your course may relieve any stress you may be experiencing if they feel a certain way about a module or course.

You can always ask your seminar teachers or lecturers if you need further help on certain topics. A lot of lecturers will provide drop-ins, I advise you use them when you  can!

I hope this finds you all well! Good luck in university and always remember to take the time to be social and meet new people.

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