It’s the last term before the start of the Junior and Leaving Cert exams and it’s not too late to make a difference.
You may have flunked the mocks but put that behind you and prepare to kickstart a study plan. Do not lose hope.
If you did well in the mocks, don’t be complacent. Remain focused.
1. Set up a proper study area.
The kitchen table, a desk in your bedroom, a table in the hallway, a nook on the landing. It all works if it minimises distractions. Do not overload the area with clutter. Leave your phone in a different room.
2. Make a Revision Timetable
A revision timetable gives structure to your revision and helps to organise study time. Break it up into topics or chapters rather than huge chunks of time. Hours and hours of unbroken study isn’t a good idea.
Shorter bursts of 30 minute or 45 minute on e.g the eye, the kidney or the reproductive system is better than saying “I’ll do science today”. Take a ten minute break after each study block. This way you will retain more information.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice
Practising past papers will help you get familiar with the:
*Exam format
*Question style
*Time pressure
*Retrieve information quicker
Don’t leave the past paper booklet lying in a corner – use it now.
4. Exercise helps
Taking regular study breaks and exercising is proven to engage your brain in studying and improve your exam performance in the long-run.
Exercise is a powerful enabler which boosts your brain’s ability to be productive. Take regular breaks to eat, drink, relax and just have some general time away from it all. Make time for a walk!
5.Sleep
Do not underestimate the power of proper rest.
Our brains are at their best when they are rested. Sleeping also improves the memory so cramming into the early hours is just counter-productive.
6.Eat Well and Stay Hydrated
Water is brain fuel. Skip the fizzy drinks and stick with water. Keeping hydrated is important not only in general but especially when revising.
7.Reward Yourself- You’re Worth It
Allow yourself a treat after working hard or achieving an important goal. Whether it’s an hour on social media or an afternoon out with your friends, make time for you.
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