The start of a new year is the perfect time to rethink your study strategies and set yourself up for success. Have you ever wondered how your fellow University of Birmingham postgraduates are acing their study sessions? These practical insights could be just what you need to power through your postgraduate journey!
The Ten Minute Creativity Boost
We’ve all been there, staring at the same sentence for what feels like an eternity or trying to untangle a research problem. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is take a step back. Instead of forcing yourself to push through, take a short mental reset, the ten minute creativity boost.
Many UoB postgraduates recommend taking a brisk walk around campus, enjoying a quick stroll through the beautiful Winterbourne Gardens, grabbing a coffee from Costa, or even just heading to the kitchen for a snack. If the weather isn’t cooperating, a quick tour to the Barber Institute or the Bramall Music Building can also provide inspiration.
The Two Minute Prep Rule
Starting is often the hardest part of any study session. That’s where the two minute prep rule can save the day.
You need to set a timer for two minutes and spend that time getting ready. Clear your desk, open up your readings, or jot down a quick to-do list for the session. For instance, a psychology postgrad might spend two minutes outlining the key studies to review, or a chemistry student could gather their lab notes and calculator. Once you start, you’ll often find yourself slipping into the task naturally.
Use Colour Coded Notes
Postgraduate life equals lots of notes. But have you ever gone back to your notes and felt like you were drowning in a sea of boring text? That’s why so many UoB postgrads swear by colour coded notes.
The trick is to assign colours to different categories, like using green for theories, blue for case studies, and red for questions or things to follow up on. If you’re a fan of tech, apps like Notion or OneNote make it easy to colour code digitally.
Combine Learning with Routine
Life as a postgraduate often means juggling multiple responsibilities, leaving little time for uninterrupted study sessions. One way UoB postgraduates maximise their productivity is by combining learning with their daily routines.
Got a long commute to campus? Pop on a podcast or listen to a recorded lecture. Or, if you’re chilling with a cup of tea, why not skim an article related to your coursework? Even little moments can make a difference!