Studying is an essential skill you need to perform the best that you can in your examinations. Most people are put off studying due to how complicated it seems. This is advice from us to you on how we can tackle exams efficiently !

General NCEA Advice

- Don't leave studying till last minute!! The sooner you start the easier your workload becomes. By starting earlier, you will have less stress on you during the weeks leading up to an exam and will be able to keep your mind free from anxiety.

- Make a realistic study schedule that fits in all your subjects. By following a structured schedule you'll be less inclined to deviate from your tasks and are more likely to hold yourself accountable if you do so! 

Study Methods

Everyone has different methods of study that they prefer, but these were the most popular amongst our committee members:

- Practice Examinations with past papers

With this method you can easily focus on questions you're good at and and the ones you're struggling with. This ensures you are allocating enough time to the areas you're struggling with the most, to get your knowledge on par with the other aspects of the paper.

- Flashcards

Flashcards help you memorise and understand all the content of your syllabus. It tests your memory as you have to recall the information from your mind, ensuring that the information stays ingrained in your head.

-The Pomodoro Method 

This method is my personal favourite. With the Pomodoro method you have 25 minute intervals of straight work with no interuptions. After this is over, you have a 5 minute break and repeat. This method allows you to ditch any procrastination. (Pro Tip: google extensions are your best friend when going with this technique).

- Setting aside all devices and printing out your study resources.

This method is for those of us who get distracted by phones and laptops. Write your notes down from Schoology or wherever they are stored digitally before your study session and collect all the material you may need. After this put your devices in a separate room and get to work!!

Note from Naima: 

Whilst studying is important, it's also important that you are looking after yourself and your wellbeing. At the end of the day a 'bad' grade doesn't define your worth ! Be kind to yourself.

Written by Amity Watson, Hannah Thomas, Hannah Corin, and Jovi Taylor.