Studying, Exam Tips and Tools for Success 

Ideas for success at school
Here are some tips for success from students who have done well in their school studies:

  • Follow the syllabus – it will save you learning things you don’t need to know
  • Consolidate your learning – write notes as you go then prepare a one-page summary on each topic – get family and friends to test you.
  • Make the most of your resources – internet, teachers and setting up study groups – try http://www.boredofstudies.org
  • Your study environment should be free of distraction. Turn off instant messaging, email and phones for a good period of time.
  • Give yourself a break – reward yourself with a walk, swim or chat with friends. Keep your life in perspective.

You’ll also find some great and detailed tips for success at school at http://www.achieveonline.com.au/article/articleview/248/1/8/

Tips for Studying

  • Establish a routine, set aside a particular time (not too late) and stick to it for study and revision
  • Create a comfortable, distraction-free study area
  • Make a timetable so each subject gets the time needed to study
  • To do lists – make lists of small manageable study tasks and enjoy crossing them off with a fat texta.
  • Look after yourself – eat well, drink water, exercise regularly and sleep well
  • Reward yourself for studying – chat, watch a favourite TV program, whatever works for you.
  • Have variety in your study – mix it up so you don’t get bored
  • Know your preferred learning style – visual, aural and utilise different tools.
  • Avoid disrupting your concentration – have all your materials ready and turn your phone, email and instant messaging off.
  • Test yourself as you go – enlist friends and family to quiz you as you go
  • Don’t panic and cram at exam time – if you’ve studied along the way you will be OK.
  • Ask your teachers for help – if you don’t understand something or need help ask your teachers.
  • Take a short break every 50 minutes
  • Use past exam papers – this will help you know what to expect.

There is some excellent information about studying at home and at school and preparing for exams at http://www.boredofstudies.org/studying.php 

Exam Time Stress

You can expect stress levels to be higher than usual at exam time. A little bit of stress can be good, keeping you focused and motivated – but too much can be unhelpful and overwhelm you. Utilise the tips and strategies listed above and on the links below to help plan your year prior to exams, that way you should be well-prepared for your exam. Having effective study habits throughout the year (see above) is probably the best way to minimise exam stress.

There are a couple of things to consider as well:

Manage expectations – external pressures from well-meaning friends and family can put a lot of pressure on us. Don’t forget it’s your life and your exam. Your previous achievements will probably be an indicator of how you go in your exam so talk to your friends and family about their wishes for you and give them your perspective too. Let them know what you think is realistic and share your thoughts and plans.

Keep your options open – wouldn’t it be great to get the marks you want first time around? It’s really important to have a few options up your sleeve just in case things don’t go right the first time. This might include deferring for a year to get some practical experience, retaking a subject, writing to the university, having a Plan B course in mind, taking a course in a related area and then transferring over. The important thing is to have a few options in mind to start with.