‘Now that I have finished my trials, and have gotten my marks back, what should I do?’

From speaking to a couple of other students, it seems that this question is on many students minds at present.

The first step, as I identified last week is to evaluate your performance. Remember this includes not just evaluating where you lost marks, but considering how your preparation and exam technique contributed to your overall performance.

So what is the second step?

During my interviews with students who achieved a UAI of over 98, I discovered the following strategy, which I recommend you take as your 2nd step to preparing yourself for your final HSC exams.

Sit down today, as you read this, and find some A4 paper – in fact, 1 page for each subject you study.

Write your subject name at the top of the page, and then brainstorm a definitive to-do list of exactly what you need to achieve in relation to this subject, to prepare yourself for the HSC. Repeat this with all your other subjects.

Things on your to-do list might include specific essays that need to be constructed, improvements to notes for specific topics, specific past HSC papers you need to complete.

Prioritize this list.

Once you have written your list, stick all the pages up on a wall. As you study each day, work on the item at the top of list. Slowly cross all of them out as your work towards the HSC.

Why is this useful? With only 6 or so weeks remaining, it is easy to lose focus and direction. It is easy to forget to complete certain tasks. Having a to-do list will focus your study, and create a sense of urgency that will improve the efficiency of your study.

Ensure that items on your to-do list are very specific, so you have no excuses when you come to the item on your list.

Make it clear exactly what you need to achieve!

For a specific detailed strategy on how to study and prepare for the HSC in the next 6 weeks, read ‘The Month Before the HSC’ chapter in Secrets of HSC Success Revealed. Additionally, to discover proven exam strategies for your HSC read, ‘Assessment and Exam Technique’ chapter in Secrets of HSC Success Revealed.