REAL LIFE

Study Tips

By Shanice, age 15, South Africa
Sweet Designs Featured Writer

I hate exams. They take me away from my best friend - television - and make me all cranky and stressed. And even after they're over, waiting for the results makes me anxious, worried, and unable to concentrate on enjoying my holiday!

After years of panicking, I've finally managed to crack the Study Code.

Manage Your Time

Setting up a time-table is easy, but sticking to it requires discipline.

Some people can draw up a study time-table and stick to it. Others just can't. I fall into the latter group.

If you're also one of the people who just can't draw up a study time-table, then try allocating a certain time for a certain section or subject. For example, you can aim for learning Biology for an hour.

If you can draw up a time-table, then do it. Make sure that you include time for breaks and leisure activities. It helps if you start planning way in advance. The earlier you start learning, the less you have to learn during each session!

Make Learning More Interesting

Learning is boring. This is a simple fact! Try to use fun methods to help you remember facts. Sing the facts at the top of your lungs, use different coloured pens to help you focus. You can even draw diagrams. I'm not an artist but I really like this method.

I remember the heart and its arteries because I drew a proper heart (bloody gory veins and all), and illustrated with diagrams. It sounds sick but it helped at the time.

Be sure to take regular breaks when learning. Try learning for 20-30 minutes and taking a break of 5-10 minutes.

Study Space

The hardest thing for me during exams is finding a place to study. Your study space should have a sturdy surface and space for your books, papers, pens, etc. It should also be free from disturbances, such as pesky siblings, TV, computer or cell phone.

Try to avoid the bedroom - you will end up sleeping instead of studying.

Make sure that wherever you are, you are focused and ready to start learning.

Snack Smart

Stay away from sugary foods! Yes, I know it seems like a difficult thing to do, but eating healthier helps you to remember facts.

Eat foods like almonds, fresh fruits, and vegetables.

Don't have too much caffeine either. It will disturb your sleeping patterns and you'll end up feeling irritable.

Drink lots of water. It'll keep you hydrated and flush out toxins.

Good luck! Remember me when you ace that paper!

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