The Study Skills Handbook

Aimed at people in higher education, this book covers a whole cartload of subjects: study methods, organising your desk, and how to structure an essay to name but a few. The layout is superb with illustrations and boxed text, and Ms Cottrell writes with a style that's easy to read. Given the nature of this book, not everything is covered in minute detail, but the essential things the reader needs to know have definitely made it in.

I highly recommended this book to anyone currently in higher education, and although it's not aimed at them, even A-Level (and possibly GCSE) students will find something useful in it, such is its versatility.


UK's best-selling student text for a reason!   February 17, 2006
Ms. C. R. Kendrick (Bedford, UK)
99 out of 101 found this review helpful

I am a tutor of adults and bought this book for my student bookshelf. It is an incredibly well-designed, easy-to-use manual full of tips, checklists, tables, questionnaires, diagrams and pictures. This makes it immediately appealing to work through and carry out all the self-questions and activities.

In terms of content the book covers the following topics: finding out your existing study skills and habits (good and bad), evaluating your individual learning style, memory techniques, time-saving tips, active learning strategies, using a computer/internet for study and research, finding information/resources, faster ways of reading, how to make notes and mind-maps, advice on writing essays, reports, dissertations, ending with revision and how to cope with stress and the dreaded exam!

Whether you are at GCSE level, A Level, at University or in adult education classes this book is bound to help you develop effective study skills and guarantee you success at your studies.

The book will really get you to reflect on how best to develop your own individual learning strategy. It respects the fact that students learn best by knowing about, and putting into practice, a number of different active and practical ways to get information to 'sink in'!

Highly recommended!


Anyone can be an excellent student   February 21, 2004
S FRANCIS (London United Kingdom)
58 out of 59 found this review helpful

I have begun studying an MA after 10 years out of study. I was out of practice to say the least.This book is absolutely excellent!In a few desparate hours after receiving this book, I have become more confident in my abilities. It has sparked my enthusiasm and self-belief, showed me my strengths and given me strategies to work on my weaknesses.
It's a must for any student in need of some va va voom!It's user friendly, easy to follow and perfect to use while studying.It's the missing link in the quest to understand 'what to do'.


great study book   May 24, 2005
S. L. Arnold (uk)
45 out of 46 found this review helpful

I am a mature student returning to education. A tutor suggested that I borrow this book from the library to help me with my low grades.
I am eternally grateful to her because this book has helped and guided me on everything,
From 'how to write for university' through to what to expect at university and advice on how to study.
Everything is clearly laid out and explained.
This book should be given to all students wishing for a little extra help.


Study Skills   July 28, 2005
helen purdy (wakefield, west yorkshire United Kingdom)
42 out of 43 found this review helpful

I am a mature student and newly diagnosed dyslexic. I have always struggled with study and retention of information. This book is a good and useful guide, it has ideas, diagrams, charts and is not too wordy for those of us who struggle with toiling through reams of accademic reading. I reccomend this book for anyone who is looking for help with any aspect of study and revision as it will lead to more accademic works, or just reinforce what you already know and need clarifying.