After surviving multiple exam seasons (with minimal emotional damage), here’s my go-to survival guide to help you get through it.
Whether you're a fresher facing your first Uni exams or a seasoned student who still hasn’t figured out how the printer works in the library.
Newcastle University Libraries offer more than quiet study spaces. They provide tools that can genuinely strengthen your academic performance.
📍 Philip Robinson Library
An ideal space for focused study. It offers:
I found that simply speaking with a librarian when unsure about where to start with literature searches can save a huge amount of time.
📍 Marjorie Robinson Library Rooms
Well-suited for long revision sessions with:
24/7 Access
During busy exam periods, some library spaces have extended or 24-hour opening times. A huge help for those who prefer quieter evenings or early mornings to revise.
Check this out to find out the availability of study spaces around campus: https://www.ncl.ac.uk/students/study-space-finder/.
The ASK website and support team are essential during revision. They provide:
ASK also runs workshops and one-to-one appointments.
Even attending a single session can provide clarity and direction, especially when preparing for exam-style answers or structuring arguments effectively.
I booked a writing appointment before one of my essays deadlines, expecting a general overview, but the advisor actually walked me through how to strengthen my argument and improve the flow of my paragraphs.
It made a noticeable difference in my final grade.
If you prefer learning independently, their online guides include videos, templates, and step-by-step checklists.
Image credit: Monash University
It's essential to know which referencing style your School expects you to use during exam season. Always check that you’re following the correct format, such as APA, Harvard, or another style your module requires.
The library’s online referencing guide includes examples for:
Proper referencing not only prevents loss of marks but also helps create a more organised and credible piece of academic work.
Everyone loves a cute Notion template or pastel-coloured planner… until Week 12 hits.
Plan realistically, not ideally.
A good study plan is one you can genuinely follow, not one that schedules 10-hour days.
The University provides a wide range of digital tools that are particularly valuable during exam season:
These resources make revision much more flexible, especially if you prefer studying from home.
Maintaining balance is key to staying productive.
me helpful habits include:
Small, consistent habits often make the biggest difference during stressful periods.
Studying with friends or classmates can make revision more effective - and less isolating.
In my experience, discussing theories aloud helps you understand them much better.
During the last exam season, I met up weekly with a few coursemates in the Business School to go through potential questions.
We all ended up understanding the content more deeply.
Late-night cramming might feel productive in the moment, but it affects concentration and memory the next day. Getting enough sleep is one of the best things you can do for your grades.
After a week of staying up too late in first year, I walked into one of my exams feeling mentally exhausted before it even began.
Since then, I prioritise sleep like it's part of my revision plan - because it genuinely is!
Exam season will always bring a bit of pressure, but Newcastle University provides so many tools, spaces, and support systems to help you succeed.
The key is knowing what's available and using it early.
By planning effectively, using key resources early, and keeping balance in your routine, you can approach your exams feeling prepared and confident.
Good luck with your exams! You've worked hard to get here, and you're more prepared than you think.
Take it one step at a time, trust your progress, and remember to look after yourself along the way! You've got this!