Approaching their remaining exam papers with a more relaxed approach may impact negatively on results, says Dr Felicity Coughlan, Director of The Independent Institute of Education. “The reality is that the hard work of the past decade and a bit could be negatively impacted by a relaxing of focus during these last four weeks of your school career. This is especially so since matriculants are experiencing a period of relative freedom, with the loss of routine which came with going to school and having to do homework every day.”
She urged matriculants to take a little bit of time to objectively evaluate where they are, how their studies are going, and where they possibly need to make changes to keep the momentum going. “Once you pass the halfway mark, you are going to need all the focus you can muster to counter an increasing number of distractions,” she says.
Here are a few steps matrics can take to ensure they do their very best until they’ve completed their very last paper:
- Don’t be thrown off track if one of your papers didn’t go well
Stop stressing about the subjects you’ve already written, since there’s nothing you can do about those results. Take each subject as it comes and remember that every paper counts.
- Review your study roster
Although pupils should already have their study rhythm, they should consider putting in an extra hour or two to, for example, complete a mock paper. “Every little bit of effort will pay off, and make you more confident when you enter the exam room,” Coughlan says. A few extra marks may well mean the difference between a successful job application or acceptance in your preferred course or institution.
- Develop a daily routine and stick to it
With a set routine you can give your full attention to your preparations. “Don’t ease into the day by fiddling with this and that and then only tackling your studies by mid-day. If you take the biggest task for the day and dispose of it first thing in the morning, you would have built momentum that will energise you throughout the day. Everything else will seem easier after you start the day with a major accomplishment,” Coughlin says.
- Get back on track after every paper
Learners will, understandably, be tempted to take it easy on the afternoon and evening after writing a major paper, but Coughlin recommends that learners take a short breather before tackling the next paper.
- Tune out all noise and distractions
It is recommended that learners switch off their mobile phone and any other devices that could distract them while studying, including the television.
- Practise saying no
As you near the end of the exams, you’ll probably get more invites to events that seem a better use of your time than yet another study session. “There will be time enough for fun when you’re done. While it is good to socialise a little bit during this time, just to stay in touch with the real world, the limited time you have available for studies should be jealously guarded,” Coughlin warns.
- Stay balanced.
A balanced, healthy life is the best counter to stress and anxiety. Pupils are advised to make time for exercise, get enough sleep and try to keep their diet healthy and balanced.
