Q&A for How to Study at the Library

Return to Full Article

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    What is the best time to study in a library?
    Ted Coopersmith, MBA
    Academic Tutor
    Ted Coopersmith is an Academic Tutor for Manhattan Elite Prep, a test prep and academic tutoring company based in New York City. In addition to general academic advising, Ted has expertise in preparing for the ACT, SAT, SSAT, and ASVAB tests. He also has over 30 years of financial controller advising and consulting experience. He holds a BA from the City University of New York (CUNY) and an MBA from Pace University.
    Academic Tutor
    Expert Answer
    Choose a day and time that will allow you to focus on the materials in front of you and not be distracted by your surroundings, or by high student traffic.
  • Question
    What if I need to take a breaks, do I just leave my stuff? How long to study for between breaks?
    Mzm555
    Top Answerer
    If you must leave the library for a break, it is strongly advisable to take all your belongings and valuables with you; many libraries openly state they cannot be held responsible for any items left behind that have been lost or stolen. As for study breaks, many people generally recommend 10 - 20 minute breaks at least every 2-3 hours.
  • Question
    My study friend and I want to be able to talk, but there is only the main floor, which has the children area, and the top floor, which has a big part of the library where most people study on their own. Where do we go?
    Community Answer
    Maybe you could ask the staff nicely about a spot where you and your friend could go to study, or go to a spot far away from everyone (so you won't disturb them) and try to study together there.
  • Question
    It is difficult for me to stand all the background noises in the library (like flipping pages in a book) even if I am in a designated "quiet" room, what can I do to tolerate the noise and study?
    Community Answer
    That depends on how focused you need to be. You could be wear headphones/earphones and listen to music that you like. You could also check out the books you need and study at home. Earplugs work great for muffling this type of noise as well, or you could put earbuds in that aren't connected to anything.
  • Question
    Can I use a college library even if I am not a current student or staff belonging to that college? I need to study in a calm place to prepare myself for an exam. Do I need to be registered?
    Community Answer
    It depends on the college's rules. Ask someone who works there, or see if you can find the answer on the college's website.
  • Question
    I often see people in library writing in an A4 paper as they are studying from books or their laptop in front of them. What is this paper?
    Mzm555
    Top Answerer
    The A4 paper is often used for taking key notes off of whatever book or laptop/online research they are studying; for example, if someone was studying the brain, their key notes would likely include the names of the different parts of the brain, and a short description of their function. Taking notes while studying usually greatly improves your memory and learning efficiency.
  • Question
    How can I ensure that I focus while studying at a library?
    Kim G
    Top Answerer
    Most libraries have study carrels or quiet rooms where you can study with few distractions. Make sure you have the materials you need to begin your study session, and plan to take a few breaks.
Ask a Question

      Return to Full Article