The year may have just started but assessment deadlines can creep up fast. Already we are noticing a buzz in the library and whispers of due dates. So, to make sure you get off on the right foot, we've curated some tips to support a hassle-free term.
1. Get familiar with all of your assessment deadlines
By plotting your due dates on your calendar you'll know exactly what you have to do when and you are less likely to get any last minute nasty surprises.
2. Chip away at your project
Doing a small amount of work every day is a lot easier than doing the whole assessment in one week or weekend. If you get started early and tackle it in small chunks it won't be overwhelming, you'll have more time to proof read and polish your work and you'll feel more in control of your studies. Also, it will mean that you have ample time to gather all your journal articles and books to use as references.
3. Sort out your printing card
Last minute IT stress sucks. Trust us, we've seen it so many times before. You have half an hour to have something printed off and you have no credit on your printing card or you don't know how to print because you've never done it before and time is tick, tick, ticking. It's too stressful! Sometimes these mishaps are unavoidable but do try to come into the library and familiarise yourself with the process to at least try and avoid that scenario. (Tip 2 will help with this too - if you get your work done even a day early that will help mitigate the worry.)
4. Learn how to check if the Library has the book or DVD you’re after
Knowing how to check the library catalogue for a book or DVD and find it on the shelf will save you so much time! Attend next week's study skills session on research basics or ask us at the library desk for a quick lesson.
For more info on the study skills session click here.
5. Learn how to find a peer reviewed article
When it comes to including references in your assignments you'll likely be asked to include some peer reviewed articles. These are articles written and reviewed by experts in particular fields.
To ensure articles are peer reviewed you can choose to search only for peer reviewed articles in the database. Some databases will list whether articles are peer reviewed. Also, journals will often state whether the included articles have been peer reviewed.
For more information on peer reviewed articles click here.
For any questions on peer reviewed articles please contact the library.
6. Start to think about specific topics, or research questions
You may have to develop your own research question and examine a topic of your choice. It's a good idea, as you listen to your classes to start to think of particular lines of inquiry that interest you so that when the time comes you've already got an issue in mind to investigate.
7. Know where you can go for learning support
When it comes to assessments, almost everyone is going to need a bit of support. The library is one department that you can reach out to to ask for help with assessment support and research support. Don't sit at your desk feeling overwhelmed! There's always someone that is here, ready and waiting to listen to what is stumping you.
Click here to find out more or visit the library in person.
Also, don't forget you can always contact Student Centre for any support that you need too.
8. Slot times for your schoolwork into your routine so it becomes a habit
If you do an activity every day repeatedly it becomes a habit. Try to put aside a little bit of time each day for your course work and you'll find that it won't feel like a chore, it'll start to become second nature.
9. Keep a record of the books or articles you read
When the time comes to submit your assessment you will need to include a reference list of all the resources that you read or watched to help you make your argument. (You can learn more about this in upcoming study skills sessions or read about referencing here).
So that it isn't a huge task at the end of your work or so you don't lose track of useful resources, it's a really good idea to note down all the resources you come across that you think will be useful down the track. You can record them any way that is easy for you, (e.g word document, Pin tabs or write them down).
10. Take class notes so you can refresh yourself on early lessons
You will likely hear a lot of information in your classes and the weeks will start to go quickly. A great way to make sure you don't forget any valuable info is to take notes during your classes or lectures. Even just making bullet points of noteworthy ideas will trigger your memory.
And there you have it! You're on your way to study success.
For any questions about the above or any other study questions please contact the library. You can email us at libraryresearch@aftrs.edu.au or book a consultation.
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