Some very useful and practical advice from our Deputy Head: Academics, Mrs Finnie:
- Monitor your sleep
Students often leave studying to the last minute, and this is disastrous, as it leads to staying up all night, and arriving for the exam very sleep deprived. You cannot perform at your best with insufficient sleep. Plan ahead, and ensure that you get 6-8 hours a night.
- Minimise distraction
Try to keep your study area organised and tidy and remove or minimise distractions. Put your cell phone in another room, and allow yourself time on it only when you are having a break. Be strict with yourself, 30 minutes break easily stretches into an hour. - Use past papers and memos
Past papers are freely available on Teams; moodle https://moodle.mcollege.co.za/ and the Department of Education website https://www.education.gov.za/Curriculum/NationalSeniorCertificate(NSC)Examinations/NSCPastExaminationpapers.aspx
The more papers you can do, the more prepared you will be, and the more confident you will feel. Engage with your teachers if you need help. - Get moving!
It is important to include at least 30 minutes of exercise in your day. This helps to activate and stimulate your brain, and is very important in helping you cope with exam stress. - Eat healthy food and avoid too much sugar
Try to eat more healthy proteins and plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Include 6-8 glasses of water in your day. Avoid energy drinks as they cause an energy slump later on. - Check your exam timetable, then check again
Make sure that you confirm the exam time, date and venue as errors can have significant consequences. Make sure you have all the stationery you need ie, pens, ruler, pencil, protractor and calculator. - Breathe deeply
If you are anxious at the exam venue take a few minutes to calm your thoughts and to breathe slowly and deeply. This also helps to sharpen your brain, as it increases the oxygen flow to the area.
Good luck!