Save the Caffeine Until it Counts!

Nine top study tips from Catrin Griffiths, Aberystwyth University Partnerships Officer.

After 20 years as a farmer’s wife and insurance agent, Catrin graduated Aberystwyth University with a 2:1 in her MMath in 2011 before joining the International Office. Here are her top tips:-

1. Always meet your tutor and make sure she or he knows who you are from day one.
2. If your assignments are going to be late for whatever reason, ask for an extension and explain your circumstances before the deadline, not afterwards.
3. In an assignment or examination, always answer the question asked and don’t forget to look at past papers before your exam.
4. Read the recommended books and don’t forget to quote from them.
5. Always follow up on your lectures. Write up your lecture notes and summarise important points in whatever way works for you. If you don’t know what works for you, find out! Aberystwyth’s Careers Service offers assistance with exploring your learning style.
6. Take advantage of any study skills support offered by your university. Aberystwyth offers support from freshers week and throughout your time at Aberystwyth.
7. When you are studying, work for short periods of time and have numerous breaks – make sure you plan your study with a timetable.
8. You know what they say about all work and no play - university isn’t just about the study – join a society or team or get involved in student politics, have some fun and work on your people skills
9. Don’t drink highly caffeinated energy drinks every day! Wait until you really need them, they’ll be more effective!