Get out of your bedroom: A guide to the best study spots on campus

As deadline season approaches and exams loom ahead, the fate of being glued to our laptop screens feels more unavoidable than ever. Though it can be tempting to hibernate in our bedrooms or camp out for days in the library, we are on a campus brimming with facilities and social spaces, so it’s well worth your while to make the most of them.

Before diving into recommendations, however, it’s crucial to think about what makes an ideal study space for you – it’s not a one-size-fits-all.

One thing to consider is comfort: do you prefer lounging on a sofa or sitting up at a desk? Warwick offers several spaces – The Rootes Learning Grid, the BioMed Grid, and certain areas of the library – with height-adjustable desks if that is a concern for you. If you’re the type who likes to snack while you study, consider a space that has amenities like food, water, or a microwave nearby. The ambience is another vital factor, since it can quite literally make or break your focus.

Starting with the classics, it’s hard to go wrong with a study session in the library. There’s something for everyone here

Something else to consider is how tech-friendly a space is. Will you need a computer screen or a printer nearby? Think about your ideal time to study as well. Whether you’re an early bird, a night owl, or some other avian species that prefers to make the most of time in between classes, it’s important to choose a space that’s accessible during your preferred hours.

Now that you’ve figured out what kind of space you’re looking for, here’s a list of some of my favourites – and why they may be for you.

Starting with the classics, it’s hard to go wrong with a study session in the library. There’s something for everyone here. If you’d like to study collaboratively with your friends or work on a group project, the main floors are a great option, where conversation is acceptable and phones are permitted. This is the perfect place to get motivated by the people studying around you.

Alternatively, if you work best in complete silence, silent study rooms can be found on the second floor of the library’s extension. Some permit laptop use, and some don’t – so choose whatever works best for you. The library can be ideal for getting into a focused mindset, although one thing to note is that they don’t allow hot food. However, the technological facilities – including the dual screen systems, various power outlets, and printers – might make up for that.

One of my personal favourites is the Caffè Nero inside the FAB. Offering a 15% exclusive discount for students and a variety of food and drinks, it’s a great place to reward yourself for your hard work

Another space that might work for you is the Rootes Learning Grid. This can be found in – you guessed it – the Rootes building, equipped with a group study and a silent study area. Students enjoy the plentiful plug sockets and the convenient location, surrounded by various places to eat. This does mean that it gets quite busy, though, especially during peak times like the afternoon. The Learning Grid also closes at 10pm, so if you’re looking to burn the midnight oil, this might not be for you.

One of my personal favourites is the Caffè Nero inside the FAB. Offering a 15% exclusive discount for students and a variety of food and drinks, it’s a great place to reward yourself for your hard work and to make studying slightly more enjoyable by romanticising it. If you feel like leaning back and stretching out your legs, the famous FAB staircase is right next to it, with bathrooms nearby too. This is, however, one of the busier spaces on this list, so maybe steer clear if that’s not your vibe.

Vaish Revelli, a second-year English and History student, tells us that she prefers studying in the FAB in general: “It’s convenient, especially for a humanities student – it’s where my classes, professors, and resources are.”

The Nook is unmatched as a cosy space. The ambient lighting and the various seating options make this a versatile spot

And finally, the newest addition to Warwick’s catalogue of study spaces – the Nook. Located in the SU, right between Rootes and Curiositea, the Nook is unmatched as a cosy space. The ambient lighting and the various seating options make this a versatile spot, whether you’ve got a paper to complete or just some light reading to do. The attached kitchen is an added benefit. They do occasionally host events there, however, so make sure to check beforehand.

Ultimately, wherever you choose to study, just make sure it caters to your needs. Happy studying!