For students sitting their Leaving Certificate at the moment and feeling under pressure, you might not know where to start. Below we have provided some tips for you to help you to get started and make the most of the time you have.
Comparison is Rejection
Try to avoid comparing yourself with your classmates. This is never a good idea for two reasons. 1. If they are doing more than you, you’ll end up feeling bad about yourself and 2. If they are doing less than you, you’ll get complacent.
Make a plan
With up to 10 subjects to cover it’s important not to leave anything out. Get a big sheet of paper and plan out your schedule week by week. Make sure to give your weakest subjects more time and do not prioritise any one subject at the cost of others.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Active study is key. Don’t just sit there reading notes or books over and over.
The early bird catches the worm
People study better early in the morning. Try get up at 7am on a Saturday morning and you’ll have half a day’s work done by breakfast. This is a great way of reducing stress as you’ll finally feel like you’re getting loads done. Try it, even just once!
Mnemonics are your friend
A mnemonic is where you use a set of words to help you remember a more difficult set of words.
It’s good to talk
Group study can be a really good way of getting through some difficult topics. Get a friend to test you on a particular topic and you’ll find that it’s way easier to remember something when you have communicated it with someone else. Being social is also really good for reducing stress levels.
Take a break
Humans were not designed to concentrate for hours on end. Your study will be much more productive if you do it in lots of short burst rather than long marathon sessions. Watch your favourite TV programme or call your friends, whatever helps you unwind. Just make sure you go back to your desk before too long!
The internet - friend or foe?
If you’ve got as far as sitting down to study you may as well switch off all distractions. That means checking Facebook, texting or taking calls should be avoided until your breaks.
Get Organised
NOW is the time to get your notes in order. The last thing you want is to be wasting time looking for revision materials the night before the exam.
Get to know the marking schemes
Understanding how marks are awarded can bring you up by a grade. You will quickly learn how to improve your answering technique.
PMA, that’s positive mental attitude!
Being in a positive frame of mind makes a big difference when studying. Remind yourself of how much you have done already. Self-confidence is one of the most important ingredients for doing well.
Best of luck!
