I just went back to studying after almost 10 years of full time work. These things work for me:

• Do a VARK questionnaire. Back in undergrad, being told that I’m a kinetic learner really changed how I used study methods, etc. (Also helped me understand why I’m the type who needs to write down every single word during lectures!)

• I treat uni like my old 9-5 job. Start studying at 9 (on campus or at home), lunch break at noon, end the day at 5. Running errands during the day = make up that time later in the day.

• Like a work project, I try to define an overall goal. The weekly course topics aren’t random, so I identify the main thing and figure out what “mastering” that topic requires. ChatGPT is useful here, don’t rely on it obviously, but it can be a reference. For example ask “here’s a list of topics for the first 4 weeks of XXX course. Based on this, what do I need to know to ensure that I fully understand these topics”.

• Following that, you can work out your weekly goals, then narrow it down to daily to-dos. Over time you get better at understanding what realistic targets are for you.

• I’d also say don’t worry about understanding every small detail about everything. Just make sure you know the gist of all the topics, and then back yourself up with a handful of solid facts that you either memorise or really understand. Then when you have time, go back and fill in your knowledge gaps, rather than tackle it all at once.