Top 10 Essential Tips for Students in the lead up to Leaving Cert Exams

The last week and final weekend leading up to the Leaving Cert exams can be very tough, as you try to balance last minute revision with much needed rest after a long, exhausting year. The natural anxiety felt by students is often heightened by the annual media hype around the state exams and it is really important that you do your best to manage that stress effectively, so that you are ready to perform to the best of your ability once the exams start. The following tips may help to keep you focused and a little calmer in the lead up to June 5th.

1. Review, don't cram – Focus on summary notes, flashcards, or mind maps. This reinforces what you’ve already studied. Prioritise areas where you feel less confident, but don’t overdo it with trying to learn new material, particularly from the weekend before the start of the exams as it could overwhelm at that stage.

2. Practise past papers - Review marking schemes and know what time allocation you have for each question you will need to answer on each paper. Practise a sample of questions against the clock. This will maximise your scoring potential. Be really clear on what questions are compulsory and optional. Go over the key terminology used in questions so that you are clear on what is being asked. You will have learned a huge amount of material over throughout the Leaving Cert course and you won’t get to show all of that knowledge, you need to made sure your answers are relevant and that you are answering what you are asked! This is an essential part of your exam technique.

3. Organise your materials - Print off the exam timetable, highlight your own exams and post it up somewhere you can see it easily. Prepare the stationary that you need, gather pens, pencils, calculators, and so on. Pack your bag the night before each exam to avoid last-minute stress.

4. Maintain a healthy balance - Aim for 8 hours of sleep each night. Proper rest is crucial for memory, concentration and stamina. Eat well, include proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbs in your meals to maintain energy levels. Drink plenty of water, hydration is essential.

5. Try to manage stress - Schedule short breaks during study sessions and do something enjoyable and relaxing, like a short walk, playing or listening to music. Get fresh air and some light exercise. Use relaxation techniques like breathing exercise, mindfulness and meditation.

6. Focus on a positive mindset - Focus on your strengths and remind yourself of your preparation. Concentrate on what you know and not on what you think you don’t! Try to avoid negative self-talk and steer clear of discussions that heighten anxiety, such as comparing how much you’ve studied with friends.

7. Plan your weekend - Create a realistic timetable for the weekend, balancing study sessions with breaks and relaxation and don’t overdo the study. You need plenty of energy for the exams.

8. Stay connected - Talk to friends and family and if you are feeling overwhelmed reach out and get support from loved ones. If it’s helpful, have a short, focused study session with friends to clarify doubts.

9. Keep things in perspective – The Leaving Cert is important but won’t define you and regardless of what happens you have several options and pathways open to you. Try to reframe the media hype and attention the Leaving Cert gets. Think of it as the whole country getting behind you and supporting you, for what they know to be a tough time for you.

10. Get set for exam day - Double-check the venue, seating arrangements, and required materials for the day of the exam. On the evening before the exam, do a light review of key concepts but avoid heavy studying. Ensure you know how to get to the exam venue and plan to arrive early (at least 30 mins on the first day). Decide what you’ll wear to avoid rushing in the morning and have your water and snacks ready to go!

Above all else, give the exams your best shot! Stay in for the allocated time. Once they are over, you have a lovely ‘study-free’ summer and bright future to look forward to. Go n-éirí libh ar fad, the very best of luck to each and every one of you!