Quick tips and tools

Welcome to your one-stop toolbox for help with university learning.

Each section contains how-to guides and self-help handouts. You can even download templates and start using them right away.

University learning

How to set goals in university
What is independent learning in university?
In-person vs. online classes in university
What I wish I knew about studying in university
Goal setting worksheet (PDF)
Anatomy of an email (PDF)
Email communications checklist (PDF)
Simple and impactful phrases to use for help in university (PDF)
Wheel of life worksheet (PDF)

Time management

6 tips for making a schedule that works for you
7 reasons why you should manage your time in university
Auditing my time worksheet (PDF)
Daily schedule worksheet (PDF)
Hourly weekly schedule worksheet (PDF)
Monthly schedule worksheet (PDF)
Prioritization worksheet (PDF)
Stay on track worksheet (PDF)
Term schedule worksheet (PDF)
Time block weekly schedule worksheet (PDF)
Weekly schedule worksheet (PDF)
Weekly to-do list worksheet (PDF)
Backwards planning worksheet (PDF)
Simple steps to backwards plan for the term

Note-taking and reading

How to take better notes
What to listen for in lectures
5 steps to improve your notes with the Cornell method
Concept mapping: A powerful tool for note-taking
Abbreviations, acronyms and symbols (PDF)
Signposts to listen for during class (PDF)
Concept map worksheet (PDF)
Cornell method worksheet (PDF)

Tests and exams

3 tips for studying for your first midterm or exam
How to study strategically last minute (effective cramming)
What to include in review notes for exams
5 steps to feel confident about your next exam
Use this five-step process for writing exams
Anxious for exams? Reduce stress with these tips

Three students facing each other as they sit on a picnic bench on campus and talk.

Want some advice?

We asked students and learning specialists to share their best tips, tricks and tools for university students. Browse through the articles for new strategies and perspective.