Class of 2024: How to plan for final matric exams in 5 months

MATRIC learners from the Class of 2024 have roughly five months left to prepare for their final examinations.

“While this is a tight timeframe for those who have not yet tracked and prepared their final strategy, it is possible with dedication and motivation to still lay a solid foundation before the first paper,” says Peter Kriel, an educational expert from the local Independent Institute of Education. “Five months might feel like you still have plenty of time, but the reality is that if you are not yet in a comfortable habit of studying based on a revision plan, time is going to catch up with you,” says Kriel.

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He adds that adequate preparation for these exams means starting right away, and it is essential because it will boost learners’ confidence, reduce stress and ensure they can perform to the best of their ability, thereby securing the grades required to pursue their desired academic and career paths.

Kriel advises learners to immediately implement a five-month plan to organise their study routine and help them stay on track so they will be ready and confident by the time the final exams arrive.

Here is a five-month guide for matric learners to prepare for final exams provided by Peter Kriel:

June: Organise and plan:

You should use this time to identify the grades you want to achieve and the subjects you need to focus on. Create a study schedule to ensure that you plan your time effectively, developing a realistic schedule that covers all subjects and balances schoolwork and personal time.

The most important approach is to stick to the schedule as at this stage, consistency is crucial. You should also use this time to gather resources and materials. This may include all necessary textbooks, notes and any additional resources such as past papers. It is also crucial that you seek help now if there are topics you find particularly challenging.

July: Build a strong foundation:

With only four months to go, you should focus on active learning techniques such as writing down key concepts and points in your own words to reinforce learning. You can also consider study groups since studying with peers can provide new insights and make learning more enjoyable.

Regularity, consistency and sticking to your plan are key. It is also now a good time to complete past papers or sample questions to get familiar with the exam format and timing and to help you focus on aspects that you have not yet mastered.

August: Deepen understanding:  

Now is the time to focus on weak areas – regularly assess your progress and keep identifying areas where you struggle. Spend extra time on these weak areas and use a variety of study methods like flashcards, mind maps and educational videos to keep things interesting and deepen your understanding.

September: Intensive review:

The preparation pace must now increase and become laser-focused on the exams which are two months away. It would be a good idea to practise and review by taking full-length practice exams under timed conditions as this builds exam stamina and time management skills. Critically go through your answers to understand what you did well and where you can improve, and focus on these areas now.

October: Final preparations:

It is the big month and time for final revisions. This month, you must focus on reviewing the most critical concepts and information in each of your subjects. However, avoid overloading yourself. Short, focused review sessions are more effective at this stage. Ensure that you have all necessary supplies such as pens, pencils, calculators and your identity document (ID).

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