Trying to understand what university involves is a daunting process for most first time students. In those first few weeks, a lot is happening and it can be a somewhat overwhelming experience. ‘The Study Skills Book’ is a great reference manual to help with this process; it provides a simple yet comprehensive insight into all of the different aspects of student life, along with various hints and tips on how to make the most out of university.

Before the book begins to delve into the details of what to expect from university, it asks the reader to think about where they see themselves in five and then ten years’ time. This made me realise that, in the space of a short (and what already feels like will be a quick) four year degree, I’ll be starting out on my first year as a fully qualified teacher.

One of the main differences between secondary school and university is this concept of students being fully responsible for their own learning, and this book provides many useful hints and tips on how to cope with the transition, such as:

• Goal setting – making short term goals will make the long term goals much more achievable
• Communication with tutors / staff members – If I have an question or issue, speaking to the relevant people will ensure there is a quick resolution
• Organisation – essential for keeping on top of course work and meeting deadlines, ensures effective time management, and having a balance between work and play
• Learning new skills – being prepared to improve on existing skills, as well as those that are unfamiliar, and being open to the new ideas and concepts of learning
• Looking after yourself – going to university is a big step and sometimes all you need is a little advice with how to cope with certain difficulties, but there are many services available ranging from academic skills advice to a counselling service

The book also details differences across other areas such as attendance, teaching strategies, learning requirements, and written work requirements. These are set out in a table while allows the reader to see the main differences at a quick glance.

These differences run parallel to the differences I’ll probably experience once I graduate from university and begin to venture out into the world of employment. The skills I develop now will stay with me throughout my life and the book highlights their importance to employers.

Working on these skills will make it easier to see the areas where I feel most competent, the areas I feel need more work, and the areas where I feel I need to dedicate time to the development of new skills.