Academic Skills Service runs an in-person, drop-in service to advise students on all aspects of academic skills.

The Service supports students in their transition to higher education and throughout their time at University to develop the academic skills needed to succeed, helping students develop their writing proficiency, build mathematical & statistical knowledge and improve their study skills.

Throughout the semester, they run Writing Cafes, Academic Skills Drop-Ins, and other events which are informal, safe spaces allowing you to make progress on your work with support available from the Academic Skills Service.

Writing Cafes
A dedicated space to get to work on your writing. Feel a sense of community, purpose and productivity! Please bring along whatever items you use while writing (e.g. notebook and pens, laptop, headphones, scrap paper and markers, or so on). When: Monday and Friday, 2pm – 4pm (Lounge Cafe, Building 38)

Academic Skills Drop-In Service
You can discuss any aspect of your academic skills needs with the team, from time management and critical thinking to assignment planning, understanding feedback and editing. (Note: if you require specialist help in maths or statistics, we suggest attending the Wednesday drop-in instead.) When: Tuesday and Thursday, 1pm – 4pm (Academic Skills Hub, Hartley Library R2045)

Maths & Stats Drop-Ins
A specialist advisor is available to discuss any queries you have regarding maths and statistics. When: Wednesdays, 10am – 12pm (Academic Skills Hub, Hartley Library R2045)

TOP TIP: If you have a more complex query or need tailored support, you can send an enquiry via our ‘Here to help’ form.

Academic Skills Hub can provide advice and guidance to students on a variety of study skills areas including time management, writing skills, critical thinking, exam preparation, presentation skills, and notetaking.

The staff can provide advice and suggestions on aspects of academic writing such as critical analysis, structure, different assignment types and genres, planning, writing styles and understanding feedback.

It can support with mathematical and statistical skills including understanding key concepts, overcoming maths anxiety, application of theory, exam preparation, gathering data, relevant statistical analysis and software support including SPSS and Excel.

Click on the picture below for a short video showing you how to find the Academic Skills Service in Hartley Library:

• What assignments will I have this semester?
• Do I need help with any aspects of my academic writing?
• How confident am I with my maths skills?

How to find the Academic Skills Service – LibGuides@Southampton at University of Southampton Library

Academic Skills Hub website: Home – Academic Skills Service – LibGuides@Southampton at University of Southampton Library (soton.ac.uk)

Contact information for the Academic Skills Hub: Home – Contact and book – LibGuides@Southampton at University of Southampton Library (soton.ac.uk)

Anna McCann, University of Southampton, (March 2025).