I love the picture of myself as a cool young writer squirreling away in some Cambridge café. When better to conform to this image than when writing my thesis. Very hipster. That is, so long as I don’t let people know what I am working on: the evolution of novel traits on algae. I won’t tell if you don’t.

Yet, this approach is not just based on appearance. I need to escape the distractions in my room. I need background noises of music and conversation to convince me I am still in the living world. I need a subtle social pressure to work. No watching films, facebook stalking or Asos browsing. But most of all, one needs sustenance when embarking on a challenging piece of work. This comes in the form of caffeine and cake.

My favourite: Grad Café

It ticks all the boxes. Muted and intellectual background conversations. Armchairs or desks at your disposal. Unlimited internet and journal access thanks to Eduroam. Never mind it being the cheapest coffee and cake in town. And with such a glorious view of the Cam, work doesn’t seem quite so arduous.

Treat-cho-self: Hot Numbers

Pick a pew and type away over a siphon coffee and luxurious breakfast. Lunchtime may be busy but it offers an escape from the centre of town. Internet is free for the first hour and then you get a free hour for every purchase.

Coffee central: Fitzbillies

The seating is limited but for a brief writing session it is perfect. Plus they have Eduroam. Its popularity for studying (or procrastinating) is confirmed by the typical sight of Macbook-toting students. It may be known for its Chelsea buns, but don’t forget to sample the carrot and walnut cake. It counts as research in itself.

Group writing: Waterstones

If you feel like writing as part of a group, the large tables in the café at the top of Waterstones make it a good choice, if a bit impersonal. Plus it has unlimited internet and random books to read in your writing breaks. Don’t forget to check out the café view.

No internet please: Sticky Beaks

Can’t resist the lure of Facebook, buzz feed or YouTube? Sticky Beaks is your place. No internet but lots of delicious baked goods to distract you. Grab a seat by the table so that the world can admire your writing ethic.

Not quite a café: Arts Picture House

For something a bit different, the Arts Picture House has good internet access, varied seating, and gets the creative juices flowing (or so I like to believe). Get your membership card for a discount on hot drinks, food, and films. And if writing really fails you then you could always go watch a movie.

Café hop around town instead of stagnating in a library. Just make sure to mention your café of choice in your acknowledgements.