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University of Sunderland Library

Study Skills- Time Management

A guide with hints and tips relating to time management at university.

Routines

Creating a routine can be useful so that you know you have set aside enough time to study at a time that suits you. You may work around other responsibilities such as childcare and jobs. It can be useful to set aside the same time each day and setting yourself active tasks. This might be creating flashcards or making a mind map to compare sources so that you are not tempted to read whole paragraphs without asking questions and taking in what the information means. 

Watch the video below for some tips to support you with motivation while you are studying. 

It might be useful to plan to stop your studying at an interesting point so that you are motivated to come back to the content. 

Part of arranging your study routine is planning where you will study. This will vary depending on your preferences. You may have your favourite spot in the library or at home. Try and ensure that you have enough light, space and air such as an opening window. You can book study rooms in our library buildings which may be useful too. 

When planning your routine, ideally choose a time when you are not tired and then reward yourself with time to relax after you have completed the task. 

Check out the video below that summarises key tips for being more motivated at university. 

Motivation at University by University Library and Study Skills

Eating Habits

Ensure that you build in time to eat healthily and regularly so that you have enough energy to complete the tasks that you need to do. It is a good idea to have a water bottle with you at all times so that you feel refreshed. Focus on having some quick and easy to make meals and snacks so that you are encouraged to make healthy choices, contributing to an energy boost when you need it. 

Being Active

Rest and exercise are important parts of being a successful student. Do not expect to sit down and work solidly for hours at a time. This is unrealistic and does not aid concentration. By building time to exercise into your schedule you will be more likely to stick to a routine. Try an exercise class that you may enjoy as this will contribute to you feeling more motivated. Why not try an exercise class at City Space? 

Exercise can also decrease stress levels and support you to feel more motivated and support positive mental health. 

Reward Yourself

During breaks from study schedule time to do tasks that will bring you joy and happiness. It may include reading a book, socialising with friends and family or visiting new places. By taking a short break to watch TV or phone a friend it may provide you with the distance and motivation you need to return to your task feeling refreshed. 

By maintaining a balance between study and other responsibilities you are more likely to achieve consistent effort over time. 

Reference List:

TED-Ed (2024) How to get motivated even when you don't feel like it. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=II5h6uJPvvs (Accessed: 25 June 2025).