Study Skills Ready for University

This is a comprehensive University Study Skills Guide designed to support students in developing effective, independent study habits. It is presented as a visually structured, accessible workbook with clear language, icons, examples, and practical activities.

The guide begins with Getting Started and How to Study, orientating students to academic expectations and reassuring them as they transition into higher education. It emphasises that study skills can be learned and improved over time.

Key areas covered include:

Focus and concentration: Strategies for managing attention, reducing distractions, and using short, repeatable focus cycles (e.g. “get ready,” “get focused,” “pause,” and “do it again”).

Time management and planning: Guidance on identifying available study time, recognising personal energy levels, and creating realistic weekly timetables. Blank and example timetables are included.

Understanding how you learn: Encourages students to reflect on what works best for them and adapt routines accordingly.

Academic writing and assignments: Step-by-step support for planning, structuring, and completing assignments, including managing deadlines and breaking tasks into manageable stages.

Note-making and revision: Practical approaches to organising notes and preparing for assessments.

Digital skills: Clear, illustrated instructions for creating and formatting documents in Microsoft Word, including headings, spacing, page numbers, saving correctly, and adding images.

Organisation and resources: Tips for staying organised, using university systems, and accessing academic support services.

The guide uses:

Plain English and supportive tone

Visual prompts and colour-coded sections

Checklists, tables, and worked examples

Step-by-step instructions rather than abstract advice

Overall, this resource is particularly well-suited to first-year students, mature learners, and neurodivergent students, offering structured, confidence-building support for academic success in higher education