Semester one is almost over and exams are looming! As the exam period approaches, it’s natural to start feeling the pressure build. But remember, you’re not alone!
At the University of Edinburgh, there are plenty of resources and services designed to support you every step of the way. In this post, we’ll highlight five key ways the library can help – from available study spaces and digital resources to helpful guides and wellbeing support – so you can make the most of your revision and head into exams feeling confident and prepared.
1) Study space, study space everywhere but not a place to sit?
Clockwise from left: New College Library, ECA Library, Noreen and Kenneth Murray Library, and Moray House Library.
It can feel like this sometimes during the revision and exam period, particularly if you are a regular at the Main Library or Law Library. But there are lots of study spaces across our campuses that you have access to, including some temporary additional study space during the exam period.
While the Main Library is a favourite for many, there are 8 other site libraries that you have access to (with your student card). These range from old-fashioned, picturesque libraries, to modern libraries with light and space and also include a library in what used to be a swimming pool.
Locations and opening hours of our libraries
2) Study space outwith our libraries (and temporary additional study space)
Study Hub at 40 George Square
But there’s not just study space within our libraries, you have access to dedicated study space elswhere as well.
If you’re in the central area why not try the Study Hub at 40 George Square which offers over 350 study spaces across a few floors, and includes a small kitchenette (Heat & Eat) with microwaves? Or the ever-popular Nucleus at King’s Buildings (right next door to the Murray Library), which offers around 400 study spaces? At King’s Buildings you’ll also find Murchison House which has nearly 300 study spaces available (although note that the computing labs are sometimes used for exams).
And that’s not all, additional study spaces are being made temporarily available in the lower ground floor of 40 George Square from the 1st December to the 19th December (subject to demand). LG.07-LG.11 will be available for independent study use for the same opening hours as the Study Hub, while LG.06 will be available Mon-Fri, 9am-4.50pm.
Locations and opening hours of study spaces
And remember to check locally in your School. Extra or additional study space will often be opened up for the exam period.
3) Use past exam papers to help you prepare
Exam Papers Online from the Library is a digital repository for University of Edinburgh degree exam papers from 2004/05 onwards. You can use these past papers as a study aid for your revision.
Exam Papers Online is primarily based on papers which the Library receives directly from Schools and includes papers from first, second, third year and honours years and some advanced courses. Specifically requested exclusions are not included.
4) The Library’s guide for Exams and Revision
Our Exams and Revision guide helps you get the most out of the Library and other University support for revising for and taking exams. It contains key information on preparing for your exams, using e-books for revision and exams, and managing your information.
If you’re looking for resources to help you develop your study skills, tips for effectively studying with e-books or advice on how to keep on top of your references and reading, then the Exams and Revision guide should be your go-to resource.
5) Take breaks and recharge
Studying and revision can seem overwhelming at times so it is important you remember to take study breaks to allow you to relax, recharge and come at things with renewed energy.
Screenshot from Libby
Even if it feels like you need a break from reading, reading something different from your subject area or topic can help you refresh your brain. Our Leisure Reading Collection (Libby) gives you access to a huge range of popular fiction and non-fiction titles, as either e-books or audiobooks. Access is via the Libby app or via your web browser.
The Library’s Wellbeing Collection contains resources on all aspects of wellbeing, including University life, depression, exercise, anxiety, loneliness, sleep, relationships, happiness, and much more. You can browse and borrow from the Wellbeing Collection Space on the 1st floor of the Main Library or browse the full collection for e-books as well. Some books from the Wellbeing Collection are also available at Moray House Library and the Murray Library.
Screenshot from BFI Player
Why not let us entertain you with our film, theatre, and TV resources? Enjoy world-class theatre productions, award winning independent films, TV programmes from the last 15-20 years, hard to find films, illuminating documentaries, and much more, wherever you are*. You don’t even need to leave your home. Grab a mug of your favourite beverage, get comfy and get streaming, with Library resources such as BFI Player, Box of Broadcasts (BoB), National Theatre Collection, and Digital Theatre+.
*Unfortunately some of these resources are not available outwith the UK.
You can get access to all of these and more through our Leisure and Wellbeing guide.
Library for Leisure and Wellbeing
Good luck with your exams and assignments! We know you’ve got this.