Library thesis survival kit

Working on a thesis this year? Semester 2 can feel like crunch time. Having recently completed my honours thesis, here’s what got me through.

In 2025, I wrote my first thesis for my honours course. At first, I was intimidated by the task and overwhelmed by research terminology, the structure, and organising my ideas. Luckily, ACU Library has amazing resources that helped make a 10,000-word thesis feel like a breeze. Ok well, maybe not quite a breeze, but way more approachable! Here’s a roundup of library resources and services to help you with your thesis.

Research consultation

Under the book a librarian tab, you can book a research consultation service with an expert staff member. If you need help with your literature search, using EndNote, data management or the publishing process, the librarians have got your back.

Database access

The huge range of databases the library subscribes to was an absolute godsend during my honours thesis. The search function and filters make sifting through it all very user-friendly, and the wide variety ensures you’ll find the paper you need. 

Out of hours access

I cannot even count the number of times I stayed back after class to work on my thesis; I practically lived at the library! And these thesis sessions would typically go until as late as 9pm. Thankfully, the library is open outside of staffed hours. Since I find it difficult to study at home, this was an amazing perk I always took advantage of. All you need is your student card to swipe in with and you’re all set! Access varies from campus to campus, so check out the opening hours page before you plan a marathon writing session late in the library. 

Library training and events

ACU Library offers many training sessions and events for postgraduate students and researchers, designed to help build your research skills by covering topics such as the peer-review process, systematic style reviews and data visualisation. I highly recommend bookmarking the link so you can easily check when the sessions are running. You can also check out the recordings if you can’t make it to a session you’re interested in. 

Writing my first thesis was challenging but incredibly rewarding, and I could not have completed it without the help of the library. If you use these resources, I have no doubt you’ll feel the same. Good luck, fellow postgrads!

Meet Isabella Esperat

Hi there! My name is Izzie and I am your student voice for the library!

This is my fifth year at ACU, and I'm studying to become an Educational and Developmental Psychologist. My role as the Library's Student Voice Assistant is to highlight the student experience and show you how the library can amplify your academic and social life.

I'm looking forward to providing content and guidance for your time here at ACU.