Subject Guides

How to Study Smart, Reduce Stress, and Ace Your Exams

Exams can be nerve-wracking—there’s pressure to perform, worries about passing, and that overwhelming sense of “where do I even begin?” Sound familiar? Don’t worry. With the right strategies, you can prepare effectively, stay focused, and reduce stress so you can tackle your exams with confidence. Here’s how!

1. Decide What to Study

Before you dive into your study schedule, it’s important to figure out what you should be focusing on. Here are a few strategies to prioritize your material:

  • Pay Attention to Clues from Your Instructor: Your teacher may give you hints or specific areas to focus on for your exams. Keep track of these!
  • Start with the Hard Stuff: Tackle the concepts you find most difficult first. These will likely take up more time, and getting them out of the way early can boost your confidence.
  • Use the Stoplight Technique: A great way to prioritize is by categorizing topics based on how confident you feel about them—green (comfortable), yellow (uncertain), and red (difficult).
  • Check Your Learning Objectives: Review your class learning objectives and assigned readings. They can give you a clear idea of the key areas to focus on.

2. Learn How to Study Efficiently

Studying isn’t just about putting in the hours—it’s about studying smart. To save time and effort, try these proven techniques:

Avoid Distractions

Phones, social media, and other interruptions can pull you out of focus. Create a distraction-free environment conducive to studying.

Have a Plan

Plan your study time realistically around your daily schedule. Avoid cramming by setting aside dedicated periods for focused study.

Be Realistic About Your Goals

Procrastination leads to stress. Instead of setting yourself up for failure, plan smaller, achievable goals that align with your schedule.

Remember Your “Why”

Set clear, daily study goals to keep yourself motivated. Relate what you’re studying to real-world examples or personal goals to make it more engaging.

3. Master Memorization and Understanding

Exams often involve not just memorization but truly understanding concepts. Here are strategies to help:

Understand First, Memorize Second

Don’t just memorize information—take time to ensure you understand it. When you grasp the “why” behind a concept, it becomes much easier to retain.

Color-Coded Flashcards

Visual aids can make a big difference. Create flashcards in different colors to categorize subjects and themes visually.

Use Mnemonic Devices

Memory tricks like visualization, acronyms, acrostics, or rhymes can make information easier to recall.

Repetition is Your Friend

Repeat concepts out loud, teach them to someone else, or review your notes multiple times. The more you engage with the material, the more likely you are to remember it.

4. Manage Your Stress

Stress can interfere with your ability to study and perform during exams. Here are some strategies to cope effectively:

Practice Breathing Techniques

When anxiety hits, try calming, belly-focused breaths to help regulate your body’s stress response.

Live in the Present

Don’t let your mind spiral by focusing on the past or future. Mindfulness can help you focus on the task at hand.

Problem-Solve to Alleviate Stress

Break challenges down into smaller, actionable steps. Tackling practical problems—like assignment overload—can ease emotional stress.

Ask for Help When You Need It

Sometimes, you don’t have to face everything on your own. If you’re struggling with a concept or feeling overwhelmed, reach out to a teacher, tutor, or trusted friend.

5. Bonus Tips for Staying Calm and Focused

Sometimes it’s the small habits that make the biggest difference. Incorporate these strategies to stay in control during stressful times:

  • Breathe deeply during moments of stress.
  • Focus on solutions rather than problems.
  • Stay in the present moment to minimize worries.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help—collaboration can lead to clearer understanding.

Explore Additional Resources

If you’re looking to strengthen these and other areas of your study routine, the modules found in the Essential Study Skills Guide can help:

✅ Time Management

Learn how to better organize your study schedule and avoid last-minute cramming.

✅ Effective Study & Test-Taking Strategies

Discover tips that make studying easier and help you feel more confident during exams.

✅ Reading & Note-Taking

Learn how to read effectively and take notes that will save time later during revision.

✅ Resilience Building

Learn how to build mental resilience to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to challenges.

✅ Prioritize Sleep

Sleep is vital for memory retention, focus, and overall mental well-being. Make sure you’re getting enough rest!

Final Thoughts

Studying for exams can feel like a lot, but with the right strategies, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Start early, focus on your goals, create a clear study plan, and don’t forget to take care of your mental and physical health along the way.

Take a deep breath—you’ve got this. Good luck!

Streamline Your Studies: The Power of Library Subject Guides

If you’re new to using the Library, finding the right materials to support your learning can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. That’s where library subject guides come in! The library has created a comprehensive set of subject guides designed to streamline your research process and enhance your academic journey.

What Are Library Subject Guides?

Library subject guides are curated collections of resources tailored to specific subjects or disciplines. They offer a one-stop shop for finding books, articles, databases, websites, and other materials relevant to your field of study. Our guides are created by knowledgeable librarian staff who understand the nuances of each subject, ensuring that you have access to the best and most relevant resources available.

Why Use Library Subject Guides?

1. Expertly Curated Resources

Each guide is carefully assembled by library staff who specialize in that area. This means you’re not just getting a random collection of links; you’re accessing high-quality, vetted resources that are directly related to your studies.

2. Save Time and Effort

Instead of wading through countless websites and databases, you can find everything you need in one place. This saves you valuable time, allowing you to focus more on learning and less on searching.

3. Stay Current

Our subject guides are regularly updated to reflect the latest research and resources. This ensures you have access to current information, which is especially important in rapidly changing fields.

4. Discover New Resources

You might think you know all the resources available to you, but our subject guides often include lesser-known databases, journals, and tools that can enhance your research. It’s a great way to expand your toolkit!

5. Guided Research Support

Many subject guides include tips on effective research strategies, citation guides, and links to relevant academic support services. This guidance can be invaluable, especially for those new to academic research.

Explore Our Subject Guides

Our subject guides cover a wide array of disciplines, from Health Sciences and Business to Arts and Technology. Each guide provides tailored information and resources to help you excel in your studies.

Here’s how to get started:

  1. Visit our library website: Algonquin College Subject Guides
  2. Browse by Subject: Select the area of study that interests you.
  3. Dive into the Resources: Explore the curated materials and take advantage of the tools provided.

We’re here to help!

If you have questions about a specific subject guide or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. We offer personalized support and are eager to help you navigate your research journey. Click here to contact the Library.

Library subject guides are an invaluable resource that can significantly enhance your academic experience. By utilizing these expertly curated collections, you can save time, access quality materials, and deepen your understanding of your subject area. Don’t miss out on this incredible tool—explore our subject guides at and unlock a world of knowledge!

Happy researching!

Welcome to College: Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Started

Hey there, future college superstar! 🎉 Feeling a mix of excitement and nerves as you step into this new chapter? Totally normal! You’ve made it to college, but now you might be wondering, “What’s next?” Don’t worry – we’ve got your back with some super handy tips to help you hit the ground running. Let’s dive into the 7 Steps to Success that will get you cruising through your college journey with ease!

1. Connect with Tech

Welcome to the digital age! To make the most of your time at Algonquin College, you’ll want to get comfortable with some essential online tools. Sign up for a free workshop or visit the Navigating Technology Guide to get the lowdown on Zoom, Brightspace, email, Microsoft 365, and more. It’s like having a tech-savvy buddy guiding you through!

2. Master the Art of Time Management

Procrastination? No thanks! Embrace your inner time wizard by diving into some Time Management modules. These will arm you with nifty techniques to plan your time wisely, tackle assignments early, and develop a routine that works for you!

3. Plan Your Schedule Like a Pro

They say “Failing to plan is planning to fail,” and that’s spot-on. Start by crafting a semester plan and weekly schedule. This way, you’ll keep track of your goals and stay on top of your game. A little planning goes a long way!

4. Take Notes Like a Boss

Struggling to juggle listening, note-taking, and absorbing information? You’re not alone! Even if your classes are online and recorded, effective note-taking is crucial. Check out the Taking Notes in Class module to learn tips and tricks for balancing tasks and creating notes that actually help you study.

5. Read with Purpose

Ever feel like you’re reading but not really absorbing the material? Fear not! The Reading with Purpose module is here to transform you into a reading ninja. Discover strategies to get the most out of your reading and make that knowledge stick.

6. Discover the Treasure Trove of Services

Your college offers a ton of resources to support you. From the Library to the Student Learning Centre (SLC), you can get help with research, citing, study skills, math, presentations, coaching, peer tutoring, and so much more. Check out our Services site to find out how we’ve got your back.

7. Ask Away!

Got questions? Don’t hesitate to ask! Swing by your campus Library or use our online Library Live Chat service. Our friendly staff are always ready to help you out in real time.

Whether you’re navigating campus or rocking online classes, starting your college adventure on the right foot is key. Follow these steps, seek help when needed, and remember: the secret to success is already within you!

Best of luck with your first week – go make it amazing! 🌟📚🎓

Techniques to Ace Your Tests and Excel at Exams!

A lot of students start stressing about exams early on. It’s totally normal to feel nervous about your performance or to buckle a bit from the pressure of passing your upcoming evaluations. We believe the best way to succeed at studying is to start early, start with what you know the least, and to take care of yourself both mentally and physically.

Deciding What to Study

Before you begin studying, it’s essential that you figure out what you should be studying.

  • Pay attention: Your instructor may give clues or instructions about what material you should focus on.
  • Start with the hard stuff: Start with the concepts you are having the most difficulty grasping, as these will likely take up more of your time. Use the Stoplight Technique to learn how to prioritize your material.
  • Check your learning objectives: Look at the learning objectives for your class and assigned readings to gain an idea of what to focus on.

Knowing How to Study

Save yourself time and effort by understanding how to study successfully and more efficiently.

  • Avoid distractions: Put away your phone or turn it off. Remove distractions and find an environment that works with you and not against your concentration.
  • Have a plan for yourself: Plan study time that works around your schedule to avoid cramming. Take this quiz to identify your learning styles and determine if you are a visual, auditory or kinesthetic learner.
  • Be realistic: Procrastinating is not the answer; setting unrealistic expectations and leaving things to the last minute can leave you in a tough spot when you are stuck with the reality of what you need to do versus how much time it will take to do it effectively.
  • Remember your goals: Set studying goals; decide what you want to cover day by day and try to relate your subjects of study to real-world situations.

Memorizing and Understanding Concepts

You will cover a lot of material over the course of a semester and it can be hard to remember everything during a test or exam. Follow these strategies for memorizing and understanding concepts:

  • Understand the concepts: Make sure you fully understand the concepts before attempting to memorize them.
  • Create color-coded flashcards: Visuals can help with memorization; making flashcards in different colors lets you break down subjects and themes.
  • Use mnemonic devices: Using memory devices such as visualization, acronyms, acrostics and rhymes.
  • Reciting and repetition: Reading information out loud and repeating material over and over again can help you to remember it.

Manage Your Stress

The Stress Management module covers topics such as:

  • Coping with Stress through the use of breathing techniques which will help you to persevere in those moments of anxiety and worry.
  • Changing your Perception of Stress by practicing Mindfulness (the act of living in the present) you can learn to focus on the here and now.
  • Problem Solving to Manage Stress Don’t get overwhelmed by a problem, find the best way to tackle it with practical strategies that can be applied to real world scenarios.

Use these bonus tips to help stay calm and composed when feeling stressed:

  • Breathe.
     Calming breaths from the belly can help calm the feeling of anxiety.
  • Think about the present moment.
     Avoid getting too caught up in thinking of the past or the future.
  • Think of solutions.
     Dealing with practical problems, such as assignment overload, can help with emotional problems such as anxiety.
  • Ask for help.
     Asking for help when you need it is important and useful when trying to solve problems.

LinkedIn Learning Playlist

This Study Skills playlist includes online courses and videos that can help you improve your study skills, including time management, stress management, effective studying, presentations, and more.

Essential Study Skills Guide

The Essentials Study Skills Guide offers a variety of supportive modules that cover topics to help you ace your assessments:

  • Time Management: Learn to manage your time more effectively.
  • Studying & Test-Taking: Learn how to study more effectively, and to be more successful when you take tests or exams.
  • Reading & Note-taking: Explains strategies for taking notes in class and for reading your textbook.
  • Stress Management: This unit can help you learn to cope with stress, be more mindful, and problem solve to manage your stress.
  • Sleep: Whether you’re hoping to get more sleep or better sleep, this module will help you to finally get some rest!
  • Resilience: This module will teach you strategies to improve your resilience, or ability to recover after setbacks.

How to Cite Right and Avoid Plagiarism

Have you ever invested your own time studying for an upcoming test only to notice the person next to you looking at your answers? Or maybe you put a lot of effort into a group project only to have another person take credit for your work. These situations can be pretty unpleasant and can make you feel as though your energy and effort is being devalued. This is just one of the reasons why it’s so important to cite the sources you’ve used in your assignments and projects – everyone deserves credit where credit is due!

If you’re unsure how to properly create citations, don’t sweat it – we’re here to provide you with helpful services and resources to make the process as painless as possible.

Workshops

Free skill-building Workshops are available on a weekly basis:

  • Avoiding Plagiarism: Gain a better understanding of what is expected of you academically in relation to citing your sources and avoiding plagiarism.
  • Cite Right! APA Bootcamp: Find out how to use in-text citations, how to paraphrase and format a reference list, get hands on experience creating references for different types of sources, and more.
  • Intro to the Library workshops: Discover our 24/7 digital resources and find out how to use and navigate online library tools.
  • Finding Academic Articles: Learn how to find academic articles using library resources. Learn how to discover the characteristics of an academic article and how to differentiate it from a popular source.

Workshops are offered both online using Zoom and on campus (Ottawa) in room C263. Click here to view the full Workshops Schedule.

Citing Sources and Avoiding Plagiarism Guide

In the Citing Sources and Avoiding Plagiarism Guide, you’ll learn how to:

  • Cite Your Sources: This guide includes style manuals and information to help you cite in different styles, as well as a series of interactive modules to help you learn the basics of using APA style.
  • Avoid Plagiarism: Not sure if you’re doing everything you need to do to avoid plagiarism? Not even exactly sure what plagiarism is? This guide will explain everything you need to know and what you are responsible for as a student at Algonquin College.
  • AI: Generative Artificial Intelligence: Find general information on Generative AI, as well as guidance on using and citing AI in an academic setting. Always consult your instructor before using generative AI tools in your coursework to ensure that you are not committing an act of academic misconduct.

The Learning Portal

We also recommend exploring the Learning Portal’s How to Cite Module. Here you will learn about:

  • Why you should cite: to prevent plagiarism and give credit to other’s work, as well as providing evidence for the topics presented in your research.
  • Citation styles: there are many different styles of citing and each comes with its own set of rules and formatting of content. Your teacher will often tell you which style they want you to use (ex: APA, MLA, etc.)
  • How to build citations: building proper citations is a crucial step in allowing readers to trace back your information and is also a form of protection from accusations of plagiarism. Learn how to build in-text citations and references/work cited
  • Citation tools: Writing a citation from scratch can seem daunting but once you become familiar with citation generating tools, it will help simplify the process.

Have questions or need assistance?

AC Library Live Chat

Additional Resources

Never forget to cite your sources and always remember to give credit where credit is due!

Six Steps for Successful Research

Does hearing the phrase “research paper” suddenly send you into stress mode? You’re not alone! Many learners feel overwhelmed when assigned such in-depth and detailed assignments. If this is your first time writing a research paper and you’re not sure where to start, we can help make the process less intimidating. If you do have previous experience doing research, it never hurts to acquire new strategies that can help take your skills to the next level.

We believe the easiest way to tackle a large assignment is to break it down into smaller steps. Instead of attacking your research paper head on, we’ve created a plan to help guide you through each stage of the writing process:

Define Your Topic

Picking a good topic is key and can make or break the research process. So, what makes a good topic? We suggest choosing a subject that interests you and will hold your attention. Explore what information is available on that topic to ensure that you can find what you need. If a topic is too specific, you may need to expand your search; if the topic is too vague, you may need to narrow it down. Turn your topic into a question and see if you can argue or prove it. The following resources can help you with this step:

Plan your Search

Once you have spent some time gathering background information on your topic, you should have a decent grasp of some search terms that would be relevant to your subject.

  • Check out the library’s Subject Guides to find resources that would make a good starting point for your research.
  • Use a thesaurus to find synonyms that could help expand your search results, and make sure to record your sources as you go.
  • For further help planning your search terms visit Step 2 of the Research Guide.
  • Register for an upcoming Starting a Paper – Improving Your Search Strategies Workshop to learn how to produce appropriate search terms and find resources using the web and library resources.

Search for Resources

Once you have committed to your topic and know which search terms to use, you can start finding credible and relevant resources. This step will be more time consuming than the first two – just remember to take it all in stride and try not to get overwhelmed. Identify what resources are required for your assignment (type of publication, date range, how many sources you need etc.) and then search across all resources with the help of the library’s Page 1+ search tool. You can also search directly within the A-Z Database list.

For help using Page 1+, check out our related FAQ’s or book a one-on-one research appointment with Library staff. The following resources can also help:

  • Explore Step 3 of our Research Guide to find tutorials, tips for search strategies and in-depth information on evaluating web resources.
  • The Learning Portal’s Fake News Hub will help you to recognize common indicators of fake news, understand the consequences of careless sharing, and learn to become a fact-checker.
  • Check out the Learning Portal’s How to Research module to learn more about the different types of resources and how to search through a library or on the web.
  • Register for an upcoming Evaluating Resources Workshop to find out how to evaluate the quality of resources using the ‘C.R.A.A.P’ test—a guideline for critically analyzing sources—so you can avoid fake news and ensure quality research.

Create an Outline

Once you have found relevant resources, you can use these sources to begin building your argument. To start creating an outline, you want to read all the sources you have collected and take notes as you go; make sure to keep track of your sources in an organized way.

When you are ready to draft your thesis statement, remember that it needs to reflect the main argument of your paper and should only be 1-2 sentences long. It is best to outline the structure of your paper before you start writing it; this will help you to determine your main points and organize your research.

  • Step 4 of our Research Guide will help you develop your thesis statement and create an effective outline of your paper.
  • The Coaching Lab offers free online and on-campus (Ottawa) Coaching in the subject of writing. Coaches can help you with grammar, brainstorming and outlining, preliminary research, thesis development, formatting a paper, and more.

Write your Paper

This is the last step in the research paper writing process! At this point you should have a thesis statement, an outline, and a collection of sources and notes; everything you need to put together your research paper.

  • Step 5 of our Research Guide will point you towards resources that can help structure your paragraphs, incorporate your sources, and guide you through the editing process.
  • Register for any of the upcoming Research & Writing workshops to find out how to start a paper, how to find academic articles and other resources, and more.

Cite your Sources

You will be required to cite your sources. Citing is an extremely important part of the research paper writing process as it is the best way to avoid plagiarism. It provides credit to the original source, helps prove the legitimacy of your research, and gives professors the ability to find the information used in your work. Fortunately for you, there are several resources that can help you with citation:

  • Check out the Citing and Documenting Sources Guide to find citation style guides and tools.
  • Visit the Learning Portal’s How to Cite module for help understanding the different citation styles and for an explanation on how to cite various sources.
  • Register for an upcoming Cite Right! APA Bootcamp workshop to gain hands-on experience creating references for different types of sources.
  • Also check out the new AI: Generative Intelligence guide to learn more about citing AI tools in your work. Before you cite, confirm with your instructor that the use of AI tools, such as ChatGPT, are allowed for your assignment.

With so many supportive services and resources available to you, research doesn’t have to be stressful! If you have questions, please visit your campus Library in person, or contact us online via our Library Live Chat.

September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day honors the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities.

Algonquin College campuses (Ottawa, Pembroke and Perth) are located on the traditional unceded, unsurrendered territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin People. The Algonquin People have inhabited and cared for these lands long before today. We take this time to show our gratitude and respect to them, and to the land for all that it provides us: trees to give shade, water, and food to sustain us, and paths to connect us. As a post-secondary institution, we embrace the responsibility to help ensure that the next generations of land stewards are respectful and grateful for the bounty of this land on which we all live, work, play, and study.

We commit to continue to explore and make meaningful contributions to the Calls to Action that result from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC).

Algonquin College Campus Events

  • The Ottawa campus Library will be screening several short films about residential schools. This will take place on Friday, September 29th in the Kejeyàdizidjigwogamig, or the Knowledge Keepers Place (Room C350) from 1:00pm – 2:00pm. We also have a new film available in our streaming collection, Colonization Road, can be watched online at any time. We also encourage the college community to explore the books, videos, and other library resources featured on the Aboriginal Studies Guide
Colonization Road
  • Please join President Brulé in Nawapon on Sept. 29 at the Ottawa Campus to listen and learn Indigenous story-telling with community Knowledge Keeper and Indigenous Rights Advisor, Michael Desautels. All Algonquin College employees are welcome to attend. This event takes place at 9:15 AM to 9:50 AM in the Nawapon (C100), Ottawa Campus and livestream via Youtube.
    Please register to attend in-person here.
  • The AC Hub will be decorating orange paper T-shirts and hanging them on windows. Partake in a selection of Indigenous teas, coffee, and foods, and engage with a variety of learning materials and resources as we strive to create a more inclusive and informed future and campus community. You are encouraged to wear an orange T-shirt.
    This event takes place on the 2nd Floor of the Student Commons (E) Building on Friday, September 29 from 10:00am-12:00pm. Click here to learn more.

Indigenous Spaces

Algonquin College takes pride in its commitment to making Indigenous Knowledge and traditions an integral part of the institution’s culture. Over the years this has included establishing a variety of Indigenous Spaces on Campus. Learn more about these spaces:

DARE District’s three-storey mural

Empower with The Learning Portal’s Maamwi Hub

The creation of the Learning Portal’s Maamwi Hub was inspired by the TRC 94 Calls to Action to ensure that the 24 Colleges of Ontario lead in the education of both staff and students on Indigenous history, culture, knowledge, and current Indigenous worldviews.

The word “Maamwi” means “Together” in Anishinaabemowin, one of the widely spoken Indigenous languages in the territory currently referred to as Ontario.

Developed in partnership with the Indigenous Peoples Education Circle and College Libraries Ontario, and part of the ongoing reconciliation journey, the Maamwi Hub serves as a collaborative pathway to learn and reflect on the past and present impacts of colonial history on Indigenous Peoples. Discover an expansive collection of credible and relevant educational materials, explore ways of connecting and collaborating with Indigenous communities, and become an active participant on the path towards reconciliation.

The Maamwi Hub is made up of 5 major sections: About, Discover, Inquire, Inspire, and Empower. This week, we wanted to focus on the Empower section as it provides users with resources to connect and collaborate, share ideas, learn from one another, and support each other on the path to reconciliation.

  • Expand your understanding: Resources to support with engaging with Truth and Reconciliation, using respectful terminology, and expanding your understanding of stereotypes & racism.
  • Participate: Resources providing an overview of days of significance, events, and Indigenous organizations.
  • Explore & Connect: Provides an overview of Indigenous communities, places, and spaces within Ontario.
  • Learning Resources: A selection of resources which may help broaden awareness and understanding of Indigenous topics within Canada.Maamwi Hub

“Rather than having a single goal related to Truth and Reconciliation or Indigeneity, we must be committed to adapting our processes and practices to honor and reflect Indigenous ways of knowing.” Click here to learn more about what this means for Algonquin College.