According to Colleen Johnson, an educational psychologist, the mistake often made by matriculants is the stop all physical activities and focus just on studying.
“Often learners will stop going out and it becomes all about studying and there is no balance,” she says.
She suggests that learners find a healthy balance and set a schedule where they study for a certain period and then rest and relax.
“It is important that they maintain physical activities as these help with stress release and built-up anxiety.”
She adds that it is also important that matriculants prepare for finals well in advance.
“They should know when they are writing which subjects,” says Johnson.
It is a good idea to make a study timetable and use as many senses as possible when studying.
“When studying, learners should use colour, diagrams and talk out loud.”
Johnson says that a good night’s sleep and a healthy and balanced diet are very important.
“Stress can also be a good thing, as it gets the adrenaline pumping and, if monitored effectively, it will help with performance.
“The problem is when it gets too much over a prolonged time, as the body then starts to shut down, and there will be major lapses in concentration and learners will not be able to store and recall information.”
She suggests that learners should prioritise tasks and set clear study goals within time limits, and try as far as possible to stick to the time limits while taking regular breaks.
“A diet high in vitamin B will also assist with stress.”
The learner’s environment should also be fairly relaxed and consistent with routines.
“One thing matriculants often forget is that they have been writing examinations all through school and have coped and matric is no different.”
