POLOKWANE – The National Senior Certificate Exam is looming for Gr 12 learners, and can be a period of stress and anxiety.

Thulisile Mgidi, a certified coach and the general manager at the No-Valo Learning Centre said that although many learners may find it difficult to maintain focus and consistency in their studies, there are practical strategies designed to help learners of all levels prepare effectively and perform at their best.

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The most important thing is to develop sustainable study habits. “Exams are not just about marks, they are a valuable rehearsal for the future. When students adopt effective strategies, they can approach exams with confidence and unlock their full potential,” she said.

Mgidi explained that it is important to set clear goals, breaking work into smaller specific tasks to make studying less overwhelming.

To achieve academic success, it’s essential to adopt a combination of effective study strategies, maintain a conducive environment and prioritise overall well-being.

“Optimise your environment by minimising distractions such as the phone and social media, and keep them away while studying. Dedicate a quiet space for studying which is free from distractions and interruptions. Make sure it’s comfortable, well-lit, and equipped with the necessary resources. Use recall techniques to reinforce your learning and summarising to strengthen memory. Test yourself on the material. Also, work in structured intervals, use the pomodoro technique which includes 25 minutes of study followed by a five-minute break. After four cycles, take a longer break of 15–30 minutes,” she said.

Maintain a healthy routine, get adequate rest, hydration and nutrition are essential for peak brain performance. A well-rested brain is more receptive to learning and retention.