Tips to prepare you for online study

1. Make sure you've got the right tools
As the saying goes, a man is only as good as his tools, and this is especially true when you're studying online. Before you start your course make sure you've got everything you need to make your study as easy as possible.

A reliable, high-speed internet connection and a modern laptop or computer are essential. Take the time now to set up your study space. Whether it's stacking your desk with Insta-worthy stationery or setting up a new folder structure on your computer, getting everything set up properly will get you in the right head space to nail your studies.

2. Plan out your study schedule
The great thing about studying online is that it's so flexible. But if you fail to set aside time for study, you can easily find yourself falling behind.

To create your study plan start by scheduling in everything that has a set time, such as your work hours. From there work with your own body clock to block out the times when you're going to do your best work. Some people are like roosters: early risers who like to study first thing in the morning. Others are night owls happy to pull an all-nighter to get an assignment done. Neither option is better than the other, but if you work with your natural preference you'll find your study sessions are more productive and easier to stick to.

3. Know who to ask for help
There are plenty of support services to help you throughout your study journey. Before you start studying make sure you familiarise yourself with our support services including learning support, and counselling so you know how to access them if you need.

If you have any questions about your course content or assessments don't be afraid to get in touch with me. My contact details is harikrishnan.thiruvanam@warwick.edu.au and you can contact me via email, or via the forum in this blog.

4. Hope for the best but prepare for the worst
Having a back-up plan in place means it's way easier to deal with things that don't go as planned. If you're already prepared for having a bad day (or a bad week) you'll be much better placed to deal with it if it does happen.

Knowing you can put these contingency plans into place ahead of time can make it a lot easier if you find yourself in this situation.

5. Set goals
Setting goals is a great way to keep you on track with your online studies. Your overall goal of successfully completing your studies might seem pretty obvious. But dividing that big goal into smaller, more manageable chunks can help keep your motivation levels up throughout your studies as you tick off smaller tasks that are leading you closer to your ultimate goal.

6. Get your crew on board
Your friends and family are going to be your cheer squad when you're having a bad day and will be there to support you if you need help balancing your studies with your other commitments. By giving them prior notice and getting them pumped about your studies they'll be ready and willing to step up and help you out if you need it.

7. Discover your learning style
Everyone's learning style is different. Some people need to write things down while others do better when they can discuss it with others. There's no right or wrong way to learn but knowing what your learning style is can help you get the most out of your online learning experience.

8. Check out our blog
This isn't our first rodeo. I've been helping students succeed in their studies for more than 5 years. During that time I've learnt a thing or two about how to make your study journey as easy as possible.

Check out our blog for heaps of tips and tricks to help you get the best out of your studies. From pro tips to keep you motivated and even top tips to help you study, we've got all your bases covered.