Helpful techniques to assist learners with exam preparation

WHETHER you are in Grade 11, or concluding your matric year, now is the time to begin preparing for your final exams.

Anne Eadie, the founder of The Answer Series (TAS), said that, despite all the challenges teachers and pupils have endured in 2020, there are techniques to help with exam preparation.

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1. Start today
Taking a proactive approach is key, don’t focus on what you haven’t done in the past. Put that behind you and get going!

2. Find what works for you
Routine is important, but there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Figure out whether you’re more productive in the mornings or afternoons; then allocate tasks which need the most brainpower to those slots. Decide on the best way to boost your energy levels. Maybe it’s a healthy snack, a jog around the block, or even a 20-minute power nap.

3. Plan ahead
Write down what you need to cover for each subject, and map out a timetable. Motivation shouldn’t be a problem once you’ve done this, because you will see that every slot is important

4. Don’t study all day
Make sure you schedule time for exercise, to chat to friends, and even watch an episode of your favourite series. Getting the balance right, and enjoying your time off, will help you be productive when you do sit down to study – with no distractions.

5. Communicate 
Tell your family about your timetable. Paste it on your door, or send a photo of it to your family WhatsApp group, so that no-one disturbs you. Your parents won’t nag you once they see you taking responsibility and doing your best.

6. Take notes
Don’t just read through your work! Study a section and then write down everything you can remember. This makes you study in a logical, alert way. You are then only left to learn a few things which you forgot.

7. Do one thing at a time
Doing past papers is excellent preparation for any exam. However, working on one topic at a time is the most effective strategy, particularly as you build-up your confidence. TAS provides thorough topic treatment for all subjects.

8. Practice makes perfect
Try each problem on your own first before consulting the solutions provided in TAS study guides. The best way to learn is from your own mistakes – you need to be able to pinpoint them first, and then understand what to do next time.

9. Stay positive
The most important thing is to remain positive until the exams are done and dusted. Sometimes this will be tough, some exams will be tough, but in the end, your result will reflect all the hard work you’ve put in.

10. Have a game plan
When exam time finally arrives, here is a mini-checklist to make sure you are set up:
– Double check that you have everything you need before you leave home
– Don’t arrive too early and get upset by panicking friends.
– Plan your time in the exam well, allowing some time to check at the end.

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