10 studying spots in NYP

Need to do a spot of mugging with the looming exams? Maybe your current study space is just too distracting? Maybe you feel you need a new area to recharge?

Check out these 10 conducive and free (!) study spots in NYP that may just help you nail that final paper!

1. Tutorial Rooms around campus

Till Aug 31, tutorial rooms are now open for self-study till 10 pm. Refer to the table below and head to your favourite room now!

Critical notes
� Air-con - Yes, but it can get chilly sometimes, so do bring a jacket!
� Power sockets - Plenty!
� Noise level - Depends on the students in the tutorial room!
� Discussion-friendly - Yes!

2. Smart Learning Hub at the Library

In case you haven�t heard, the Smart Learning Hub at the North Wing of the library just opened last week! Perfect timing! This brand new brightly lit area is great for self-study, research and group discussions. There are plenty of tables and chairs in cosy configurations. If you need to take a break, there�s also a lounge area with soft movable chairs and a carpeted spot where you can get some rest. Don�t say we never share!

Critical notes
� Air-con - Yes, but it can get chilly sometimes, so do bring a jacket!
� Power sockets - Plenty!
� Noise level � Usually quiet with some chatter
� Discussion-friendly � Yes very! Check out the smart meeting rooms.

3. Blk Q level 1

For the science and engineering students, Blk Q level 1 is a study haven!! I find it best to study there either early in the morning or late afternoon. With South Canteen right above on Level 2 for your food cravings, what more can you ask for?

Critical notes
� Air-con � No, but there are fans. The sun barely reaches this spot so it rarely gets warm.
� Power sockets - Limited! ?
� Noise level - Usually a 2/5. But it can increase to 5/5.
� Discussion-friendly - Absolutely!

4. The long stretch of benches at Block D, E (Level 3) and Block R & S (Level 4)

The benches at these blocks are top notch for intense self or group study in the late morning or afternoon. A con would be that this location gets quite warm around noon as there are no fans around, and the sunlight can get quite harsh. However, the tables are large and spacious, great for all messy students, and the noise level is pretty low as well.

Critical notes
� Air-con - Sadly, no.
� Power sockets - Plenty!
� Noise level - Usually a 2/5. But it can increase to 4/5.
� Discussion-friendly - Only at Blocks R & S! But the tables can only take up to four people.

5. Block J (level 4) corner tables

You�re probably thinking: �Hey, I haven�t seen these tables before!� This hidden area is for students looking for a quiet place away from the hustle and bustle of the campus. Being far from any food source means you have to pack your snacks before you head there. Nonetheless, the perks of this location outweigh any disadvantages.

Critical notes
� Air-con - Sadly, no. But there are plenty of fans around.
� Power sockets - Plenty!
� Noise level - Usually a 2/5. But it can increase to 4/5.
� Discussion-friendly - Absolutely!

6. Blk K (Level 2) study benches

Studying in groups is always more fun, and the benches beside the Blk K lecture halls are large enough to accommodate up to six persons each. Although there is a lack of power sockets and no air-con, you can talk louder here and there is a printing shop and vending machines nearby.

Critical notes
� Air-con - Sadly, no.
� Power sockets - Unfortunately none!
� Noise level - Usually a 2/5. But it can become 4/5.
� Discussion-friendly - Absolutely!

7. Block D and R (level 1)

I am the type of person who likes to have everything sprawled out on the table while studying. If you are a more minimalistic person, the small but cosy tables in Block D and R (level 1) could be ideal. The tables are also conveniently located near the printing shops.

Critical notes
� Air-con - Sadly no, but there are plenty of fans available.
� Power sockets - Plenty!
� Noise level - Usually a 2/5. But it can become 4/5.
� Discussion-friendly � Nah. The seats are not arranged in a way where a group can gather around a table.

8. Koufu

Some people at night owls, some are early birds. Well, if you are a morning person like me, Koufu is definitely the place where you can sip your morning coffee (or tea) while reading through your notes. Despite the noise, Koufu has several power sockets, and is quite discussion-friendly.

Critical notes
� Air-con - Yes!
� Power sockets - Plenty around the walls!
� Noise level - Usually a 3/5 in the mornings. But it can increase to 5/5 during peak periods.
� Discussion-friendly - Absolutely!

9. Food Connect

Ever found yourself trying to get a seat at the library cafe but there are none left? Try studying at Food Connect. Although it�s not air-conditioned, it is pretty cool as it�s fully sheltered and there are lots of fans. There are also plenty of food options and if you need sugar, there�s Divine Artisan! I would recommend the seats around the inner perimeter as that is where most of the power sockets are.

Critical notes
� Air-con - Sadly no, but the fans and the well-ventilated space provides a cooler environment.
� Power sockets - Plenty around the inner perimeter at the soft seats!
� Noise level - Usually a 2/5. But it can increase to 5/5 during lunch breaks.
� Discussion-friendly - Absolutely!

10. FoodCentral

I know the stiff feeling after studying in a hard, uncomfortable chair. If comfort is your top priority and you don�t mind the background noise, FoodCentral has by far one of the most comfortable seats for mugging. My butt can attest to that. As an added bonus, Cheers, Pines Cafe and iMunch are all in the vicinity. Go in the early morning or late afternoon.

Critical notes
� Air-con - Yes!
� Power sockets - Plenty!
� Noise level - Usually a 2/5. But it can become 5/5.
� Discussion-friendly - Absolutely!

Finding your optimal studying environment will certainly help you to be less distracted and more motivated, so I urge you to go forth and try out these places! With that, I wish you all the best for the upcoming finals!

By Castillo Phoebe Grace, Diploma in Molecular Biotechnology