Your Pre-flight Exam Checklist.

It’s crunch time! Those final weeks before exams are a delicate balance of intense preparation and crucial self-care. Here’s a breakdown of key things students should focus on as we hurtle towards the exams:

For Effective preparation

Prioritize your revision workload

• Review the syllabus and exam structure: Understand what topics will be covered and the format of the exam (e.g., multiple choice, essays, problem-solving) (check out our Study Summaries, we can do this bit for you!)
• Identify weak areas: Focus your remaining study time on the topics you find most challenging. Don’t neglect strong areas entirely, but allocate more time where it’s needed most.
• Create a realistic revision timetable: Break down the remaining time into manageable chunks, assigning specific topics or tasks to each session. Be flexible but stick to it as much as possible. (Look out for our Jotter Pads Sets; they are a fantastic way to organise your time.)
• Plan practice papers: Schedule specific times to complete past papers under exam conditions. This helps with timing, familiarises you with the question style, and highlights areas for further review.

Active recall and retrieval practice

• Move beyond passive reading: Instead of just rereading notes, actively test yourself. Use flashcards, quizzes, or explain concepts aloud without looking at your notes.
• Link the facts: Using mind maps, flow diagrams, and other graphic organisers is a tremendous way of building knowledge beyond reciting facts and figures.
• Work through practice questions and past papers: This is invaluable for solidifying understanding and applying knowledge. Pay attention to the mark schemes to understand what examiners are looking for.
• Identify and understand mistakes: Don’t just gloss over incorrect answers. Analyse ‘why’ you went wrong and revisit the relevant material. It can feel uncomfortable, but working on what you’re getting wrong is the best way of making progress.

Optimise your study environment

• Find a quiet and comfortable space: Minimise distractions and ensure you have adequate lighting and ventilation. Ideally, it won’t be your bed. If you can, carve out some space elsewhere in the house, or go to your local library.
• Organise your materials: Keep your notes, textbooks, and stationery tidy and easily accessible. You don’t want to be wasting essential time scrabbling around looking for passwords.
• Limit [digital] distractions: Turn off notifications on your phone and laptop, or use website blockers if necessary. Even better if you can leave your phone somewhere where you aren’t!

To look after yourself

• Prioritise sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Being well-rested significantly improves concentration, memory, and overall cognitive function. Avoid late-night cramming, as it’s usually counterproductive.
• Eat well: Eat regular, healthy meals. Avoid excessive sugary snacks and drinks, which can lead to energy crashes. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Stay active: Regular physical activity, even short walks, can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost energy levels. Aim for at least some movement each day.
• Get plenty of fresh air: It’s not simply that getting out and about helps to clear your mind and destress, but the is a healing and restorative power to natural light.
• Manage stress:
  • Take regular breaks: Step away from your studies for short periods to relax and recharge.
  • Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or meditation can help calm your mind.
  • Talk to someone: Share your worries and anxieties with friends, family, or tutors.
  • Make time for fun: Make time for hobbies or activities you find relaxing, even if it’s just for a short while.
• Keep things in perspective: Remember that these exams are important, but they are not the only measure of your worth or potential. Try to keep things in perspective and avoid excessive pressure.
• Ask for help when needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers, tutors, or student support services if you’re struggling with the material or feeling overwhelmed.

By focusing on both effective preparation strategies and prioritising your well-being, you’ll be in the best possible position to perform well in your exams and navigate this stressful period successfully.