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When the Leaving Cert exams are in sight, it’s important for candidates to make the most of their study time and to focus on effective strategies that will help them to succeed.
First and foremost, it’s important to prioritise study time and focus on the subjects that they find most challenging. While it can be tempting to spend all of your time studying favourite subjects, it’s essential to dedicate extra time to those subjects with which you struggle. By doing so, you’ll be able to strengthen your knowledge in those areas, and feel more confident heading into the exam.
One effective strategy for last-minute study is to focus on memorisation techniques, such as repetition. Repetition involves going over information multiple times, which can help reinforce it in your memory. I know students who record themselves saying Shakespeare quotes into their phones and, while out for a walk, they listen to them and try to recite alongside the recording.
Another useful strategy is to practise past papers and sample questions. These can give you a good idea of the types of questions to expect in the exams and help you to identify areas where you need to improve.
Additionally, it can help you get a better sense of how to manage your time during the exam itself. While practising past papers, know how much time you have on each section and time yourself.
It’s also essential to take care of your body in order to perform at your best on exam day. This means getting enough sleep each night, eating a balanced diet, and staying active. Studies have shown us that ‘pulling all-nighters’’ has little success, while sleeping helps us to memorise, retain and recall. Exercise has also been shown to have a positive impact on mental function, so taking breaks to move your body can actually help you retain information better.
Remember that stress and anxiety can have a negative impact on your ability to perform well in the exams. While some level of stress is normal and even beneficial, too much can be overwhelming and cause you to lose focus. It’s essential to take breaks to engage in stress-reducing activities such as deep breathing, meditation or listening to calming music.
Remember that your guidance counsellor will be available to you for any advice on this.
Finally, it’s important to have a positive mindset and believe in yourself. Confidence is key when it comes to exam success, and students who believe in their abilities are more likely to perform well on the day. Remember that the Leaving Cert is just one part of your academic journey, and that there are many paths to success beyond the exam.
