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Study Skills and Abilities

 Reading skills_2

Study skills and abilities are the methods you need to enable you to study and learn well – they are an important set of transferable lifetime abilities.

Key topics about study abilities:

You will improve your own personal method to study and learning in a way that comes across your own individual requirements. As you progress your study abilities you will notice what works for you, and what doesn’t.

  • Study abilities are not topic specific - they are common and can be used when studying any area. You will, of course, need to appreciate the concepts, theories and ideas surrounding your specific topic area. To get the most out of your studies, though, you’ll want to develop your study abilities.
  • You need to practise and develop your study abilities. This will increase your awareness of how you study and you’ll become more confident. Once understood, study abilities will be useful throughout your life.
  • Study abilities are not just for students. Study abilities are transferable - you will take them with you beyond your education into new situations. For example, organisational skills, time management, prioritising, learning how to analyse, problem-solving, and the self-discipline that is required to remain motivated. Study abilities relate closely to the type of abilities that employers look for.

Getting Organised to Study

Getting organised is an important first step to effective study.  Our page covers the basic organisation abilities you need to consider – fundamentals such as where and when to study and the importance of developing a network of contacts who can help you when you need it.

Finding Time to Study

This page covers some of the basic principles of time management – with reference to study. If you manage your time badly then you will be less productive, which can lead to stress and anxiety. This page will help you by outlining the importance of a personal study timetable and how to set goals and prioritise your time.

Sources of Information for Study

Learn what is meant by, and the importance of, primary, secondary and tertiary documents and how you may source such information in a library or online.