6 top tips to help you study smarter not harder

Need some little tricks and cheats to help produce more work in less time? Learning effective study skill that works for you is the best way to save time while accomplishing the same quality of work. 

None of us likes wasting time. So, here are a few study tips you can use to help you study smarter, not harder.



1. It's not all about books, find different ways to learn

If you don’t want to read yet another book, give your eyes a break and explore different ways to learn. There are so many free educational videos and documentaries available online that can help you with your course. Nowadays, there are videos on almost every subject. 



Youtube is a great platform to find interviews, tutorials and inspiration. UAL students can also gain free access to Kanopy. Kanopy’s collection includes thousands of award-winning documentaries, training films and theatrical releases.



Can't find what you are looking for? Get in touch with UAL Library Services.



2. Get the answers to your questions from the experts

Got a question? Why not directly contact someone in the industry who would know the answer? There are thousands of websites where artists and other professionals advertise their work and their contact details.

Most people in the industry will take the time to help students because after all, that's where they started too. In fact, they will be honoured that you're interested in their field of work.

Try reaching out to them on platforms such as Instagram and Twitter. 



3. Plan your week

Remember being in school and following a strict timetable? Why not apply this to your home studying? Print out a calendar from the web, and start filling in your deadlines, studio time and personal plans.

Believe it or not, more people do this than you'd think! If you don’t want a calendar on your wall or on your computer, then why not purchase a diary? You can take notes, jot down important dates and even write your shopping lists in it.

Time management is key to ensure that you complete all your work on time with a standard that you're happy with! 



4. Make a morning checklist

Every morning make a checklist of tasks you want to achieve each day. This helps keep your priorities in order. You can even cross-check this list with your new calendar. Having this list will keep you motivated to achieve throughout the day. 



5. Audiobooks and podcasts may become your new best friend

Combining traditional books with audiobooks and podcasts can be refreshing and enriching. 

The best part? You can listen to what’s being said while you're going around your daily life, like when commuting to college or doing the food shop.

This doesn’t have to cost you a fortune, there are plenty of resources online that are free to listen too. You can even listen to podcasts on Youtube and Spotify to help inspire your work! 



6. Take note by hand 

We all take notes digitally in 2020, but sometimes it’s difficult to process the notes that you are typing.

Why not go old school and start taking notes by hand again? This can help you remember your notes, and you can develop your thinking on paper more easily than typing. 



I hope you found some of these study tips useful. To find out more about how you can get the most out of the resources available to you visit UAL Library Services. If you are struggling or need further advice they can also offer you academic support. 



Remember, The Disability Service can also offer support if you have or think you have Dyslexia or another Specific Learning Difference.