Library Hacks Every Student Should Know

New term, new you! Cracking down in the library can be daunting but fret not! Here are some library hacks to get the most out of your study time.

Hack 1- Try out different libraries


One library does not fit all. Luckily at Nottingham University, there are eight libraries to choose from. The closest one to you may not be the best for your style. If you’re a die-hard Hallward goer, maybe check out George Green? Or jump on the free hopper bus to Jubilee and try the geometric Djanogly Leaning Resource Centre, which overlooks a beautiful lake. The different environment will keep your brain sharp and help with focus. And you will never find your favourite If you don’t try them all.



Hack 2- Find your study style and lean into it

Everyone has a different study style. Some need absolute silence, some need background noise. Some learn best by talking concepts over with friends and some need to be alone to not get distracted. Whichever style works for you, make sure the zone of the library matches it. For example, Hallward library has silent study areas, an entire ground floor open space with whiteboards where groups can chat and study, a café area for people to grab a revision iced latte, and separate study rooms for you to have privacy whilst working. Everyone has a different style that works for them- find it and make sure the library zone matches it.



Hack 3- Pomodoro all the way

When revision season comes, everyone recommends different methods, but research doesn’t lie- the pomodoro method is the best at getting you to remember your notes. Recommended by the faculty, this method is all about taking regular breaks. It works by focusing on work for 25 minutes, then have a break for 5 and repeat. After you’ve repeated it four times, you take a longer 15-minute break. You can use an online pomofocus tool or time them yourself. However, your brain will thank you for this method in the exam!



Hack 4- Maximise your breaks


Breaks aren’t just a good revision tool, they’re good for your mental health too. But doomscrolling is not always the best switch off. If you’re around campus, stretching your legs for 5 minutes without screens really helps to reset your brain. Even better, if you are with your friends, agree not to mention any work topics and catch up on the latest Netflix recommendations. Make sure you take a proper lunch break for long revision days too- this makes sure you’re well-rested when you restart revision, so you avoid the dreaded burnout.



Hack 5- Online resources


Library not your vibe? No problem. The university has subscriptions to all the best academic journals and literature which you can access through the online portal. For more information on this, attend the welcome events during freshers, or ask for help at the library. This means you have the library right at your fingertips.



Exam season can be stressful, but hopefully these hacks will help you get the most of your study time. 
Got another fun library hack? DM us to let us know.