Studying on-line gives you more opportunity for individual help than attending a large class, so take advantage of the fact that these courses are run by a "real" person who will attend to your needs.

You can work at your own pace and at your own time, so you have the benefit of being able to work around other aspects in your life. Your time will also be more productive. However, you also need to motivate yourself.

Unproductive time

There may be a point when you are studying that you become unproductive. Learn to recognise this point and take a break.

• Set aside a block of time, preferably no less than one hour

Organise your time into "blocks". Try to set aside at least an hour for each sitting, and stick to the time you've set yourself.

• Minimise distractions

Close the door, put the answering machine on and try to set aside time away from the family if possible.  Tell family members you are studying and you don't want to be disturbed. Try not to fall into the trap of tending to others' needs unless it is absolutely necessary.

Try to relate the material to your own personal experience

People learn more if they take a "practical" approach to study. Leave time to reflect on what you are doing and relate it to your own life and your future. Read your material carefully and don't try to rush through. Take short breaks. Contact me if you need clarification; don't soldier on unnecessarily.

Don't forget to take a break

Enjoy!

Most people find study a challenge that leads to rewards such as a sense of achievement, a new job, possession of a certificate. Remember to enjoy the process as well as where it is leading you

Keeping your computer Organised

Make sure you keep your computer files organised. Create a folder for your study to keep all your work safely stored on your computer.

If you are studying a full certificate course, create subfolders for each unit.

Keeping yourself organised

Each course comes with a timetable. Print out the timetable and keep in in your personal diary, or enter it into Outlook. Then enter the completion dates in your diary and set yourself study time.

As you complete your tasks, mark them off on your timetable with the date you completed each task.

Enjoy your course!