hi

1.

Timetables - I find setting myself a rough timetable helps, so I know I am spending two hours on Thursday afternoon working on a certain module for example. I can find I am easily distracted at home so find it helpful to leave the house and go to a coffee shop or the university library to do this.

2.

Study Group - If you get on well with some of your coursemates who might also be struggling or you know you are a good influence on one another (we have to ensure we don't distract one another) then you could set up a study group. I find I a much less likely to start later if I know I am meeting a friend and then we can spur one another on.

3.

Academic Support - If there is a particular module or area you're struggling with reach out to your tutors as they'll often have great advice. Often universities have other support services, for example, my university offers a free academic writing course which I am taking to try to improve my essay-writing skills.

4.

Work Smart & Take Breaks - I find if I keep studying when I am tired or not in the zone not only do I not make much progress, but can feel worse. I try to identify times of the day (when I am available) that I focus better during this period, then allow myself a proper break. During my break, I will move away from my desk, have a proper meal, go for a walk perhaps, or watch an episode of my favourite series. Then I am recharged ready for the next tasks and don't end up burning out. It can be hard as we need our mobile phones for many things nowadays, but when I am studying I try not to look at mine, because I know I am very easily distracted.

5.

Bitesize Chunks - I do not always take this advice myself, but doing something is better than nothing. Often writing thousands of words can feel quite overwhelming, so break down the assignment into more manageable steps, and take them one day at a time.

6.

Self-care - I think we all know that having a good night's sleep, exercising, and eating nutritious meals, alongside some scrummy study snacks helps us focus, but even I can forget this myself sometimes, so it is worth saying. Additionally, there are usually well-being services as part of your university student support, who can be reassuring to chat with when you are feeling a bit low or like your workload is getting overwhelming.