Self-help books on Study skills

Introduction

There are so many popular psychology texts in the shops that it can be difficult to know where to begin. This set of book-lists was compiled by staff of the University Counselling Service to respond to those students who have asked us what they might read on this topic.

Our selection is not intended to be the 'final word' - we are sure that there are many other good and helpful books out there; in any case we recognise that what is helpful is very subjective and depends on personal circumstances.

Books are listed in alphabetical order by author. Copies of some of these books are available to borrow on a weekly basis from the University Counselling Service.

Disclaimer

The descriptions given are intended to provide a summary of the contents but should not be taken to imply that the Counselling Service endorses the opinions expressed.

Study skills

Date of information: Jan 2006, updated June 2010

Passing Exams Without Anxiety
David Acres, How to Books, 1998

This book is aimed at people taking exams at all levels from GCSE and A level to university level and offers advice on how to approach coursework, plan revisions, along with techniques intended to improve memory and relaxation.

Successful Study For Degrees
Rob Barnes, Routledge, 2004

A guide seeking to show how to study more effectively at first and higher degree levels. Aimed at students looking for more than just a basic study skills book, it is structured so that topics such as basic essay writing feed into chapters on dissertation preparation and writing.

Students Must Write
Robert Barrass, Routledge, 1998

This book offers advice on the essentials of scholarly writing, on the choice and use of words, on writing for easy reading, on writing in tests and examinations, on giving a short talk, on writing letters and applications and on punctuation and spelling.

Doing Your Research Project, A Guide for First-Time Researchers in Education and Social Science (2nd Edition)
Judith Bell, Open University Press, 1999

Seeks to enable students to get through their first research projects successfully and without wasting a lot of time in trial and error.

How to Research
Loraine Blaxter, Christina Hughes and Malcolm Tight, Open University Press, 2001

Discusses the practice and experience of doing research in the social sciences as well as in related subjects such as education, business studies, and health and social care.

Writing At University: A Guide for Students
Phyllis Creme and Mary R. Lea, Open University Press, 2003

This guide aims to help students to tackle writing assignments more confidently and competently. Suggests strategies and techniques that can be used to gain more control over their own writing.

The Procrastinator's Handbook: Mastering the art of doing it now
Rita Emmett, Walker & Co, 2000

Describes the circumstances that trigger and sustain putting off behaviour and what procrastinators need and want. Identifies the behavioural styles and patterns procrastinators use for putting things off, apply proven anti-procrastination tips and techniques for achieving goals, and develop strategies to move forward when stuck or reverting to patterns.

Getting down to writing - a student's guide to overcoming writer's block
Caroline Hall, Peter Francis Publishers, 1994

Addresses questions such as "Why is it so hard to get down to writing?" and "Can it be made any easier?" Written by a student counsellor familiar with the issues involved.

Academic Writing Course
R R Jordan, Longman ELT, 1999

Intended for students starting a tertiary level course in higher education, this book addresses a wide range of aspects of academic writing, from the details of accurate grammatical construction, pronunciation and spelling to appropriate style choices. Ten appendices form a bank of support material, cross-referenced from the main units. A glossary of examination and essay terms and an extensive key are also included.

Isn't It About Time?: How to Overcome Procrastination and Get on with Your Life
Andrea Perry, Worth, 2002

Groundbreaking work on a subject that affects us all from a top British professional. More than half the book is devoted to detailed and practical suggestions on how to become more effective and creative.

How to Write Critical Essays
David Pirie, Taylor & Francis, 1985

Offers the student of literature detailed advice on the process of critical essay writing from first facing the question right through to producing a fair copy for final submission.

Overcoming Perfectionism
Roz Shafran, Sarah Egan and Tracey Wade, Robinson, 2010

A CBT self-help book describing techniques to help you overcome your problematic perfectionism.