Are you or someone you know preparing for Year 12 exams?

We've rounded up five tips from the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) to help set all students up for end-of-year success.

Tip 1: Set yourself up in the right environment

• Find a place where you can minimise distractions. If this isn’t possible at home, consider a  library.
• Make sure you have enough space, light and quiet.
• Switch off your phone (or put it on silent) and avoid social media while you study.

Tip 2: Set goals and plan your schedule

• Include your commitments (lessons, but also sport, part-time work, and family outings).
• Find time for any other items you want or need to factor into your schedule.
• Don’t forget eating and exercise – along with plenty of sleep, a sensible diet and exercise are important for your health and wellbeing.
• Remember to make time for catching up with friends, or just watching TV and relaxing.

The SACE website has some goal templates and study planner (external site) templates to download.

Tip 3: Understand what works for you

You may not study in exactly the same way as your friends or siblings, so you should find a routine that suits you. Plan your study routine according to how you like to study.

Step 4: Make a timetable and stick to it

• Include milestones such as holidays and exams in your schedule as soon as you can.
• Create your study timetable around these dates so you give yourself time to study.
• Most successful students say it helps to divide work into small pieces rather than one large chunk, so it feels achievable.
• Spread the tasks out so that your study is varied between simple and challenging tasks.
• Set yourself achievable weekly goals and try to stick to them.
• If something unexpected happens and you don't achieve what you had planned, revise your timetable and get back on track as soon as possible.

Tip 5: Ask for help (and take care of yourself)

The exam period isn’t always smooth sailing. It's important to look after your physical and mental wellbeing — you shouldn't feel alone.

• Ask family, friends or teachers for help or just a sympathetic ear if you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
• Ask family members and friends to test your knowledge and arrange group revision sessions if you’re the type of student who likes to bounce ideas off other people.
• If you’re looking for external help, Headspace (external site) provides young people and families with information about mental health issues.
• ReachOut.com  (external site)has lots of tips about studying, managing stress and life in general, from everyday issues to tough times.

To view the 2024 SACE examination timetable and for further information on how to prepare for an exam, visit the SACE website (external site).