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Time management and study skills

Key takeaways

  • Set goals by breaking down your big goals into smaller, weekly steps.
  • Create a study plan to schedule study times and breaks.
  • Prioritise by tackling tough tasks first and avoiding procrastination.
  • Get help if you’re feeling stressed.
people studying for an exam

Year 12 is a busy year, and with exams and assignments, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed.

But with a few simple tips for managing your time and studying effectively, you can feel more organised and ready to tackle everything that comes your way. Let’s look at how you can manage your time better and study smarter to do your best.

Set goals

It’s important to know what you want to achieve. For example, you might want to do well in a particular subject or get a certain ATAR score. Break your big goals down into smaller steps you can work on each week.

Create a study plan

A study schedule helps you stay organised. Choose specific times each day to study different subjects. Don’t forget to add in breaks to keep your mind fresh, and balance study with activities you enjoy.

Prioritise tasks

Some things are more important than others. Tackle the tough stuff first and save the easier tasks for later. This way, you get the hard work out of the way and feel more relaxed.

Avoid procrastination

Putting things off only makes them harder later. A helpful trick is to study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. This keeps you focused and gives you time to rest.

Tips for success

It’s not just about how much time you spend studying, but how well you study.

Here are some tips to help you study effectively

  • Test yourself: Instead of just reading through your notes, try to test yourself on the material. This helps you remember it better and get ready for exams.
  • Space out your study: Don’t leave everything until the last minute. Spread your study time out over weeks so you don’t get stressed trying to cram at the end.
  • Do practice exams: Past exam papers can help you understand the types of questions you’ll face. They also help you manage your time better during exams.
  • Stay organised: Keep your notes and study materials neat and organised. Use a planner to track important dates for assignments and exams so you don’t miss anything.

Feeling stressed about exams?

Exams can be a significant source of stress, but there are ways to manage it effectively. Headspace offers excellent resources for managing exam stress.

We also encourage you to let your parents or teachers know how you’re feeling, so they can support you.

By following these tips, you’ll feel more organised and confident in your studies, and ready for the challenges of Year 12 and beyond.

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