Back To School Tips
September is almost here and after a great summer, it’s time to go back to school! We know that for some of you this may mean that you have to get prepared to take your GCSE or A-Level exams and that can be daunting. It may be time to start thinking about revision, exam prep, and university applications. Here are eight tips to help you get back into school mode:
1. Set goals
Setting goals is particularly important if you are studying for your GCSE’s or A-Levels as getting ahead now can make a huge difference when the pressure really starts to mount towards exam time. Think about including homework plans, revision timetables and set yourself achievable grade targets to work towards.
2. Utilise your support network
Your family and friends will always be there to support you through education and eventually into work life. To make the most of your school year though, consider which teacher you feel most comfortable asking for help from because getting as much feedback as you can throughout the year can make a real difference to your overall outcomes.
3. Stick to deadlines
At the start of the year, make note of all of your deadlines, exam and coursework dates so that you can stay on track throughout each term. It’s so important to ensure that you utilise all of your time rather than cram in work during the most stressful time of the year. Pace yourself by knowing the syllabus and sticking to target as best you can.
4. Get into a routine
Try to set aside a certain amount of time each morning or evening (depending on when you are at your best) to stay focused on your revision but also to go over what you have learned each day. That way, anything you don’t understand right away can be revisited the next day with a teacher. Continue this routine and be strict with yourself until it becomes second nature.
5. Find your space
Discovering a place where you can study to the best of your ability is essential to anyone looking to prepare for exams. Maybe it’s your bedroom, the dining room table or maybe it’s the library or local coffee shops – wherever it is, make sure to stick to a place that increases your productivity and helps keep your mind focused on the task at hand. Remember that a change of scenery will really help prompt your brain to retain information better as well as leaving you feeling reinvigorated and ready to study.
6. Be realistic
Be honest with yourself about how much time you need to complete each task or to have a successful study session and make sure to stick to that commitment. You will feel much lighter and less stressed if you achieve those smaller goals as you go along rather than carrying the weight of it all right up until exam day.
7. Don’t get down about it
If you have a mock exam or a test paper, don’t get down about a bad grade. It’s much better to get a grade you aren’t happy with on the run-up to the exam rather than on the final paper itself. Use each piece of homework or each trial to take proactive steps into improving your overall performance and to get useful, constructive feedback on your work. Think of each step as an opportunity to learn and improve!
8. Try and make a friend in each class
Teaming up with likeminded people to go over notes or homework that you find difficult can benefit you and many others around you. They say that everyone is an expert in something and a new perspective may be exactly what you need to see something clearer. Make friends wherever you go and make sure to chat, study and learn together!
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