So you’ve finally finished year 12...you’re exhausted and looking forward to a well-deserved break before you have to worry about what you’re going to do next year.
A lot of the dialogue surrounding post-school options focuses on university, but in reality, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/women-in-leadership/2016/feb/01/i-chose-not-to-go-to-university-it-was-the-best-career-decision-i-ever-made">lots of people feel that path isn’t the right one.</a> Maybe you can’t imagine spending another chunk of your life studying or would rather getting started in the workforce ASAP - either way, we know the feeling!
We at RESN know that a whole bunch of school leavers are looking for options elsewhere outside of uni, and there are tonnes out there to explore. Here are a couple options, other than university, to get you thinking about your future after high school!
<h4>Apprenticeships</h4>
Completing an apprenticeship in the years after school can be a fantastic option. It can get you into your chosen career with a super hands-on approach, learning everything on the job.
Being able to earn money while you learn is a great bonus as you get involved in your chosen industry. <a href="https://accessrt.edu.au/10-reasons-why-an-apprenticeship-is-better-than-a-degree/">In the long run, doing an apprenticeship can be heaps more cost effective than uni too, which is why a lot of people are opting for this option instead.</a>
<a href="https://www.aapathways.com.au/job-hunting/finding-jobs">There are heaps of online resources to get you going and into a career that you love</a> , so enjoy exploring all the different apprenticeships out there!
<h4>Short Courses</h4>
If you don’t feel ready to commit to a three or four-year degree at uni, opting for a short course might be the way for you! It will give you a taste of an exciting career or let you explore a hobby that you’re interested in pursuing further.
<a href="https://www.nationaltraining.edu.au/people-choosing-short-courses-degrees/">Short courses are super flexible, enabling you to do them at your own pace and even online if getting to campus is a bit of a struggle.</a>
<a href="https://www.tafensw.edu.au/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAzsz-BRCCARIsANotFgN93y9Z8ufXvbL49WHr73UxbSj4om2GWSu-ERR60wkvOIXHoYuW5KMaAkCJEALw_wcB&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds">TAFE</a> courses are largely inexpensive options that have a huge range of courses you can try out to find out what you like. They’re also a great way to gain experience and contacts to get you set up for your future!
<h4>Straight into the Workforce</h4>
After leaving school, you might be itching to get into the workforce as soon as possible.
There are tonnes of <a href="https://www.thebalancecareers.com/what-is-an-entry-level-job-1918126">entry level jobs out there that require minimal experience</a> and getting into the industry as soon as you can be a fantastic option, helping you to advance quicker whilst earning money.
<a href="(https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/education-vs-experience/)">A good portion of employers actually prefer practical and relevant experience over university degrees</a>, so getting out into the workforce sooner rather than later can really pay off and kickstart your career.
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<h4>Time Off</h4>
Sometimes when you’re finding it hard to decide what your next step should be, taking a proper break can be a great way to reset.
Gap years are becoming more and more popular as they give us the time to explore and travel whilst gaining invaluable perspective and experience. <a href="https://www.topuniversities.com/blog/reasons-you-should-take-gap-year-going-university">Thousands of school leavers testify to the value of taking a proper break before launching into their future.</a>
Whether you spend a couple months working in a fun part-time job before jetting off somewhere amazing or choose to work somewhere totally out of your comfort zone, like a new city or country, a gap year can be exactly what you need if you’re feeling unsure of what to do next.
Obviously, the recent pandemic has changed a few things in terms of travelling, but don’t forget about all that Australia has to offer!
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Knowing what path to take after school can be really daunting, with so many great options out there making it hard to choose.
Whether you opt for university or something a little more off the beaten track, we at RESN are sure that you’ll be successful in whatever you decide.
Don’t hesitate to submit a question to us about university, gap years, or other options - we’ve always got someone on the team who’s done it!
Don’t forget - everyone is on their own timeline, and the important thing is finding a path that you’re passionate about. Good luck!

We at RESN know that a whole bunch of school leavers are looking for options elsewhere outside of uni, and there are tonnes out there to explore. Here are a couple options, other than university, to get you thinking about your future after high school!

What to Do if Uni isn't for You

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Most of you have reached the end of your exams. A massive congratulations to you all! What a year it’s been, and you’re finally beginning your well-deserved break after so many years of schooling.
That being said, there’s the question of <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-comes-next-how-to-decide-what-course-best-suits-you">what’s next</a>. There has already been talk of it earlier in the year and you may be feeling sure of your next step or completely lost.
This is the topic of course preferences. If you’re keen on undertaking a university or college course but have no idea what to choose, what’s suited for you, job prospects and other questions, we’ll run you through it!
<hr>
<h4>1. Identify your long term career goals.</h4>
This may sound confusing and vague, but it’s more straightforward than it sounds. Simply, ask yourself:
<blockquote>
“What do I want out of a long-term job?”
</blockquote>
Is it to do something you love or are passionate about? Something to pay the bills? A career that challenges you intellectually? Or has good job prospects? Locate what it is you’re <a href="https://careerwise.minnstate.edu/mymncareers/english-learner/long-term-goal.html">seeking</a> as your first step to choosing your ideal course.
<h4>2. Picture your ideal future timeline.</h4>
We’re not talking about deciding where to live, when to buy a house, “settle down” or anything specific. This can just be asking yourself some of the following questions.
<blockquote>
“Do I want to get a job immediately or <a href="https://year13.com.au/articles/find-yourself-when-travel?next=find-yourself-when-travel">take my time</a>?”
</blockquote>
This may help you narrow down the types of degrees you may be interested in. For those who are keen to get right into it, career specific courses like teaching, nursing and engineering are more suited. However, if you are unsure and want to explore your interests at university/college, general degrees like arts and science are perfect for researching your options and potential career paths.
<blockquote>
“Does the length of my degree matter to me?”
</blockquote>
Some degrees take longer to finish than others. Some are degrees that branch into other ones. Some are quick and straightforward. Depending on if the duration of your degree matters to you is something else you can factor into your <a href="https://www.seek.com.au/learning/studying/finding-the-right-course/choosing-the-right-course-for-your-lifestyle">decision</a>.
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<h4>3. Choose what YOU want to do.</h4>
It doesn’t matter what your reason is for choosing a course. It could be personal interest, financial reasons or other factors. But it’s important to make sure what you decide to choose is your decision, not what your family, friends or others want.
<a href="https://au.reachout.com/articles/how-to-deal-with-parentscarers-expectations">Parental pressure</a> especially is tricky to tackle when it comes to your future career. Whilst it can feel like the people around you have power and influence over your future, ultimately this is your life. What will let you achieve long-term happiness is following <a href="https://inspiredbyhilde.com/be-in-charge-of-your-life/">your own path</a>, not a path that someone else has set out for you.
And if you don’t know what you want your path to look like, branch out and find what interests you!
<hr>
These are some tips to get you started when it comes to deciding your future course. Whilst this decision carries importance, remember it's not the be-all end-all. Life is never a linear journey and so many people switch courses, drop out, or change their life trajectory. Remember to go at <a href="https://medium.com/live-your-life-on-purpose/how-to-go-at-your-own-pace-and-not-lose-stillness-e357e40c4f3b">your own pace</a> and do what feels right for you.
Good luck!
By Catherine Le

A massive congratulations to you all! What a year it’s been, and you’re most likely finally beginning your well-deserved break. That being said, there’s the question of what’s next. We'll guide you through it!

How to Know Your Future Course Path?

To my future ATAR,
I know we’ll meet soon, and I won’t lie, I’ve never been more nervous.
We hear it all the time. <a href="https://artofsmart.com.au/low-atar/">‘Your ATAR doesn’t define you’</a>. But at the end of the day, you’ll be the number that sums up my entire school-life.
The hours spent sitting in stuffy classrooms. The years of lunchtime games and gossip. The good teachers and the not so good ones. And lately, the study, the practice exams, the afternoons spent in the library, the friendships, the tears, the memories… How do you wrap all of that up into one number?
It’s easy to say that you, my future ATAR, won’t define me. But the scary thing is you’ll dictate a lot of what’s possible for me in the future.
You’ll decide whether I get into the <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-comes-next-how-to-decide-what-course-best-suits-you">course I want</a> next year. You’ll decide whether I get that <a href="https://www.education.gov.au/rural-and-regional-enterprise-scholarships-program">scholarship</a> I applied for.
It’s hard not to feel anxious.
What if you aren’t high enough? What if all my friends get higher ATARs? What if I’m just not cut-out for academic success?
The truth is you won’t ever define me or my <a href="https://year13.com.au/articles/high-school-wont-best-years-life">school years</a>. There’s no way you can punch in each of my school experiences and calculate a total.
School has taught me way more than just curriculum content, and no number can take that away from me.
In the end, I just hope you reflect all the hard work I put into Year 12. And if not, I know there will always be other options for me. Courses offered at uni's with lower entry-scores, careers that <a href="https://year13.com.au/articles/careers-without-atar">don’t require ATARs at all</a>.
My future holds way more than an ATAR could ever calculate.
But for now, I’ll sit and wait patiently. I know I’ve tried my best. I know I’ve worked hard. Either way, I’ll be proud of myself and what I’ve achieved.
See you soon, Your student.
Words by Ella Katz

To my future ATAR...

I know we’ll meet soon, and I won’t lie, I’ve never been more nervous.

A Letter to My Future ATAR...

What To Do When You Lose Motivation
You’ve fallen into an endless pit of flashcards, practice exams and late-night coffees, and you simply want it all to stop! The year is nearly over, but you just can’t find it in you to read another line of Shakespeare or do one more trigonometry question. If you’re feeling this way, we can guarantee that you’re not alone.
At <a href="https://www.resn.org.au">RESN</a>, we understand that while we start Year 12 all bright eyed and bushy tailed, it’s easy to lose that motivation. Here are our top five tricks, tried and tested to get you back on track and across the finish line!
Shake Things Up
We all know that studying for literally hours a day can quickly become extremely monotonous and boring, making it difficult to stay <a href="https://chloeburroughs.com/stay-motivated/">on track and motivated</a> for your upcoming exams. One of the best things you can do when you feel that boredom creeping in is to hit the refresh button and shake things up.
If you’re in the habit of studying in the morning, try out working more in the evening, and vice versa – there are heaps of <a href="https://junkee.com/whats-best-time-day-study/155113">great benefits to studying at both times of day.</a>
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Trying out a new study technique can also be a great way to freshen up your routine. Take <a href="https://www.themuse.com/advice/take-it-from-someone-who-hates-productivity-hacksthe-pomodoro-technique-actually-works">The Pomodoro Technique</a> for example, where you study in bursts with small breaks between. This might be what you need to keep study feeling manageable and rewarding, rather than dull and overwhelming.
Trying a new study space can also be a fantastic way to restore lost motivation and get back into studying. Consider taking a trip to a different library in your area (if they’re open), find a shady spot under a tree, or even work at the kitchen table instead of your bedroom.
These simple changes can give you a totally new outlook and drive; being in a new environment has actually been <a href="https://careerbuzz.prosky.co/articles/how-a-change-in-environment-can-benefit-your-productivity">proven to enhance your studying capabilities.</a>
Take a break
We know that taking a break during exam season can feel truly criminal, but it’s often exactly what you need to feel refreshed and spark up that waning motivation.
Be kind to yourself and give yourself time to relax and recharge; it’s the best way to <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-cope-with-burnout-and-study-guilt">avoid exam burnout.</a> Whether it’s a five minute break to <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-take-a-break-but-not-procrastinate">grab a snack or meditate to get you back in the zone</a> or a whole episode of your favourite show, allow yourself the time for enjoyment, and your study will feel a whole lot less overwhelming.
Think about what’s holding you back
When you’re lacking in motivation, sometimes it can help to actually think and identify what exactly it is that’s holding you back.
Is there a certain section of content that you’re struggling to understand and just want to avoid? A certain Maths formula or English theme that you just can’t seem to get into? <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-type-of-procrastinator-are-you-and-what-to-do-about-it-">Why are you procrastinating?</a>
Once you identify these problems and address them, through speaking to your teachers or asking help from a handy <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/register">RESN tutor</a> you’ll be back into the swing of things in no time.
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Break down your workload
After figuring out what you need to address and work on in preparing for your exams, breaking down your workload can really help to keep you working hard in the final weeks.
Try breaking down the <a href="https://studyskillstips.wordpress.com/2011/11/21/the-study-schedule-that-saved-my-sanity/">content of your subjects</a> into sections and focusing on each of those in distinct study periods, rather than trying to cover everything at once.
Spend a day focusing on one text, a single area of science or one kind of problem in maths. That way, what may feel like a mountain of study becomes much more manageable and easier to get through, keeping you motivated.
Remind yourself what your studying for
One of the best ways to keep yourself driven and focused throughout your exam period is to remember <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/why-do-you-study">why you’re studying</a>. Having visual cues in your space, for example, above your desk, will keep you focussed and motivated.
Maybe it’s your goal final score, pictures of your dream university or even just the feeling of freedom you’ll have when all of this is done. Making something like a <a href="https://www.breatheandreboot.com/how-to-create-a-vision-board-to-reach-your-goals/">vision board</a> can sound silly, but it’s the perfect way to remind yourself of why you’re working so hard!
Maintaining motivation in Year 12 is a tricky feat, given it’s likely the most intense year you’ll have experienced. But don’t feel disheartened, and give these tricks a crack. We have faith that they’ll help you to keep achieving your best right up until the end. Only a few more weeks to go!
Happy studying, and good luck!
Words by Lucy Waterson

While we start Year 12 all bright eyed and bushy tailed, it’s easy to lose that motivation, even when the end is in sight. Here are our top five tricks, tried and tested to get you back on track and across the finish line!

What To Do When You Lose Motivation

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It’s officially go-time! By now, you’ve already started your exams, or are anxiously awaiting them in the weeks to come. Or maybe you have no idea what to revise and how to even get motivated to revise - you’re starting to burn out!
If you fit in the final category, don’t beat yourself up - it’s okay. We are super proud of you for making it through this year and want to remind you that you’ve done amazing!
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<a href="https://au.reachout.com/articles/burnout-and-chronic-stress">Burnout</a> can happen to even the best of us. That drive to excel and achieve a certain score for your subjects? To get a grade that will guarantee you a place in your dream course? No matter what your motivation or performance levels were, burnout can make it really hard to get back on track to that same level of drive.
So, how do you overcome it? Here are a few tips to get you <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-stay-on-track-during-stressful-times">starting the pedals</a> again!
<hr>
<h4>1. Disconnect</h4>
As important as your final exams are, balance is the key to wellbeing and keeping motivated. The exam period is hectic, to say the least. Stress levels are at an all-time high, as you revise your subjects for hours, cram in practice exams and frantically contact teachers and tutors for help. It’s easy to neglect basic needs like sleeping!
So we ask you one thing - stop. It might sound crazy to consider taking any breaks when your exam is in a few days. And yes, <a href="https://www.onlineschools.org/science-of-study-breaks/">breaks</a> can sometimes interrupt your study flow and feel like a waste of time.
But try shutting your laptop or leaving your study area. Take a quick break to grab some water, a snack, or take 20 minutes to walk around your neighbourhood for some air. It doesn’t matter what you do, or how long your break is, but disconnecting your brain from studying for a brief moment by <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-does-realistic-self-care-look-like">taking care of yourself</a> makes a world of difference.
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<h4>2. Set simple goals</h4>
The most important thing is to <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/the-chronicles-infertility/201810/pacing-yourself-the-long-run">pace yourself</a>. If you’re experiencing burnout, you may simply be setting yourself unrealistic or overly ambitious goals. We’ve all been there! But having goals like:
<blockquote>
“I’m going to do 15+ practice exams for all my subjects, finish all my exams early, get my first preference uni course and get at least a final score above 95+.”
</blockquote>
Nothing is wrong with these goals! But it is important to know your limits. Recognise whether these goals are <a href="https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/emotions/happy-with-yourself2.htm">attainable</a> with your current grades and time remaining. And if they aren’t, do yourself a favour and lessen the burden on yourself to attain goals you set at the start of the year.
You will only be setting yourself up for disappointment by trying to achieve them. Instead, revise your goals and <a href="https://www.mindtools.com/pages/main/newMN_STR.htm">set smaller milestones for yourself</a>. It can be lowering your desired final score, or simply revising a single concept.
It is 100% okay to change your goals and expectations throughout your final year. Remember, this does not make you a <a href="https://hackspirit.com/15-signs-well-life-even-dont-think/">failure</a> in any way. Doing the best you can is what you should be really proud of!
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<h4>3. Take in the bigger picture</h4>
You might have heard your teachers say: <a href="https://www.chenpr.com/marathon-not-sprint/">“Year 12 is not a race, but a marathon.”</a> At this rate, hearing this might sound like listening to a broken record. But there is definite truth in this statement.
Exam period a rush to the finish line, squeezing in your final practice exams, essays, revision notes - all that jazz. It’s terrifying to feel like your entire high school performance relies solely on these final weeks, your future is dictated by how well you do in a 2-3 hour exam.
But take a step back and remind yourself of how far you’ve come. You’ve overcome all the hard yards, assessments and tests throughout this year. Whilst it can feel like everything weighs on these last few exams, we promise you that it doesn’t.
The reality is that year 12 is not the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/oct/20/spare-a-thought-for-year-12-students-around-australia-2020-has-been-tough">be-all end-all</a>. Once you get out into the world, you’ll realise there are so many opportunities, paths and directions you can take with your future. In the grand scheme of things,<a href="https://year13.com.au/articles/life-after-year-12"> year 12 is merely one chapter in your life</a>. Not only year 12 is a marathon, but so is life in general!
So if you’re sitting at home, stressed out and feeling guilty for not studying enough, know that you will have so many <a href="https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/choosing-starting-school/leaving-high-school/after-high-school-different-paths-to-success">chances</a> to explore and fulfil your future career.
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Don’t forget, it’s okay to feel a bit burnt out at this stage. Just remember that the finish line is in site! We hope these tips have helped you in managing your study guilt and loss of motivation. Feel free to reach out to us at <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Help</a> and <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Wiki</a> if you’re feeling lost with revision, or for exam tips and advice.
Make sure to reach out to friends, family or mental health professionals such as <a href="https://kidshelpline.com.au/">Kids Helpline</a> and <a href="https://www.beyondblue.org.au/">Beyond Blue</a> for extra support. At RESN, we’re all here for you and are cheering you on for your final run to the finish line!
You’ve got this!
By Catherine Le

It's no brainer - burnout sucks. We'll get you back on track with our top tips, to help you power through your final exams!

How to Cope With Burnout and Study Guilt

Exam Prep 101: English and The Humanities
As the final exam season quickly approaches, the sheer volume of content you’ve learned over the last year can seem incredibly daunting. Whether it’s a 400-page novel you still haven’t read, the chronology of the Russian revolution or 50 pieces of legal legislation, there’s always a lot to remember.
With the right study techniques, you’ll be on your way to smashing those exams. Here are some tips that will hopefully make the <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/a-week-before-the-exam">lead up to your exams</a> a little less intimidating!
Tip 1: Know your texts inside out
Most humanities subjects rely upon a key selection of texts and source materials, like plays for drama, novels for English and paintings for Visual Arts.
While some of us won’t have read all your texts cover-to-cover(although it is definitely recommended), the best way to ensure exam success is by knowing them inside out. Your text is your holy grail…think about it – any question you get has to come from the texts you’ve studied, so knowing them well covers all your bases.
Brush up on any sections you’re still a little confused about and don’t be afraid to ask <a href="https://www.resn.org.au">us</a> for clarification. It’s what we’re there for!
Tip 2: Organise your quotes and evidence
There’s no way to escape having to memorise quotes to back-up your analysis (sorry to burst your bubble). An essay question in the exam can never stray too far from the themes you’ve learnt in class, so make sure you have evidence to back up any of your analysis.
There’s no need to remember every single word of your text – a good handful of versatile quotes that can be used across themes will do the trick. You’re better off remembering a couple quotes that’ll work in answering any question than <a href="https://www.oxfordlearning.com/difference-rote-learning-meaningful-learning/">rote learning</a> whole essays!
Your teachers will no doubt look at your texts most central themes and go through any key sections that explore them. Top tip: create a table with three columns; one for your quotes, a brief analysis and what themes it could apply into – these make easy to read notes to flick through when revising content and help the quotes to stick in your mind.
Tip 3: Create timelines and flashcards
If you’re a visual learner like many of us are, using visual tools can be a great way to enhance your study. For subjects like History and Legal studies, it is super important to remember the timeline of events, whether that’s the lead up to the Irish Civil War or reforms made to the Crimes Act!
<a href="https://study.com/academy/lesson/how-to-make-a-timeline.html">Map out a timeline</a> with any key elements or dates that you need to remember - print it out and stick it up all around your house – the toilet door, your mirror, the fridge. That way, the image of your timeline will be burned into your mind!
<a href="https://www.petersons.com/blog/why-flashcards-work/">Flashcards</a> are another super useful study tool and an awesome way to quiz yourself in the lead up to exams. Pop on any key terms, questions, themes or people that you need to remember. On the other side, write down your answers – whether that be theses, dates or descriptions.
That way, you can test your knowledge, and have the answer right at your fingertips when you get stuck!
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Tip 4: Do timed practice exams
In the <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/a-month-before-the-exam">lead up to the exam</a>, one of the best things you can do is practice responding to essay questions in a timed scenario. Typing up essays on your laptop is one thing but writing out what is often more than 1000 words on paper in a whole different ball game.
Use past papers and practice essay questions from class, lock yourself in your room and try to complete the question in the recommended amount of time – this will help you figure out how long your essay writing currently takes you and work towards refining your writing.
This is also a great way to put your quotes to the test – figure out which ones are working great across a range of practice essay questions and weed out and replace the ones that don’t seem to be all that useful.
Tip 5: Make use of online resources.
We all like to make fun of <a href="https://www.sparknotes.com">SparkNotes</a> and <a href="https://www.shmoop.com">Shmoop</a>, but they can honestly be lifesavers when you’re in a pinch. They break down the info from tonnes of texts –themes, characters analysis and important quotes. Although it’s probably not the best idea to depend on them completely, they definitely make for an excellent study support. Our <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/wiki/">RESN Wiki</a> and <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/quizzes/">Quizzes</a> will also be a massive help to perfect your exam prep.
Also, don’t be afraid to venture into the world of academia. Articles and essays on sites like <a href="https://www.jstor.org">JStor</a> and <a href="https://scholar.google.com">Google Scholar</a> can introduce to themes and ideas that you might have never come across. They’re also great things to mention in writing for subjects like English Extension that require a bit more of a wider analysis.
We know what a stressful and crazy year it’s been. Even though it might feel like all you should be doing is study, it’s also crucial that you take a break when you feel you need it and <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/self-care-september-is-here">look after yourself!</a>.
No matter what happens, you have so much to be proud of already. <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">Study hard</a>, try your best, and everything else will fall into place. Good luck!
Words by Lucy Waterson

As exam season approaches the sheer amount of content can seem daunting...here are a few handy tips to make studying for your exams a little less intimidating.

Exam Prep 101: English and The Humanities

It’s a week before your exam. Nerves are probably high, as is stress. But regardless of whether you’re on your 28th practice exam, or your third consecutive season of The Office, we’ve got you! Here are our top tips for nailing your exam, no matter where you’re up to now.
Last-Minute Study Tips
While we definitely don’t endorse leaving all your revision to the night before your exam, there’s no reason why you can’t make the most of the week leading-up to your exam. Here’s how.
Focus on <a href="https://aliabdaal.com/activerecallstudytechnique/">active recall</a>. Instead of skimming over huge amounts of content, aim to retain and recall information.
You won’t have access to your notes during your exam (and even if it’s open-book, chances are that you won’t have the time to rely on them), so make sure your revision mirrors that.
One proven way to work on your active recall is doing <a href="https://www.questionmark.com/evidence-from-medical-education-that-quizzes-do-slow-the-forgetting-curve/">practice exams</a>. Don’t have access to many <a href="https://learningfundamentals.com.au/the-power-of-doing-practice-exams-how-to-do-them-and-where-to-find-them/">practice exams</a> ? No stress. We’ve created <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Quizzes</a>, a database full of exam-style questions (and answers!) for each subject.
Practice exams are also a great way to identify any gaps in your knowledge. Find these gaps and focus on the content you feel least comfortable with.
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Plan Your Time
Yes, this may be the most boring piece of advice, but yes, it will also save your exam-ridden life.
Exam periods are a juggling act. Make sure you know how much time you have until each exam, and you’re aware of how much more work each subject requires. Break it down into hours.
Strike a balance between studying for your next exam, and the other exams that are coming up. Making a <a href="https://www.intelligent.com/create-a-study-plan/">study plan</a> can help, especially if you take into account things like when you focus best, and how long you can focus for.
Remember, <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">study smarter not harder</a>. Maybe there’s one subject you enjoy more than the other? Use it as a reward for getting through a practice exam for your least-favourite subject.
Keep it realistic. There’s no point in creating a study plan that sees you revising for 16 hours straight. You’re human and you need <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-take-a-break-but-not-procrastinate">breaks</a>, so plan for it.
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Calm Down (seriously though)
Exams are stressful. Even if you’re the world’s most organised student in the school. But, <a href="https://www.edutopia.org/blog/neuroscience-behind-stress-and-learning-judy-willis">science</a> shows that stressing is the worst thing you can do in an exam.
When you experience anxiety, the part of your brain that helps you access memory closes off. That’s definitely not what you want during your exam.
Instead, try to <a href="https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/worklife/campus/advice/a20351/how-to-stay-calm-before-an-exam-tips-and-advice-for-how-to-avoid-stress/">calm yourself down</a> with some simple steps:
Don’t focus on what other people are doing, it can be distracting and intimidating. Keep doing you, and don’t get caught up in comparison.
<a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-do-you-know-when-its-time-to-ask-for-help">Ask for help when you need it</a>. Chat to your teacher or a friend if you don’t understand something. Submit a question to us, or arrange a Zoom consultation with us.
Look after your mental health. Studying doesn’t have to be the only thing you do during your exam period. Striking a <a href="https://au.reachout.com/articles/why-you-shouldnt-always-put-studying-first">study-life</a> balance is always important, so go for a walk with a mate, or play video games for an hour as a reward.
You’ve got this!
Words by Ella Katz

It’s a week before your exam. Nerves are probably high, as is stress. But regardless of whether you’re on your 28th practice exam, or your third consecutive season of The Office, we’ve got you!

The Exam Series: A Week Before The Exam

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Science can be fascinating and confusing. Whether you find immunity to be a walk in the park, or can’t wrap your head around quantum physics, science exams can equally stump us all.
With final exams just around the corner, here are our top tips to help you <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">study smarter and not harder</a> for your science exams!
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<h4>1. Know your Study Design</h4>
Before you resort to rewriting your notes as exam revision, take a good look at your <a href="https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/curriculum/vce/vce-study-designs/Pages/vce-study-designs.aspx">subject study design</a>. Chances are, your notes may be long and contain content that isn’t assessed on your final exam.
This is likely for content-heavy sciences like Biology, Psychology and Health, where it can be hard to decipher what areas are important to consolidate. Use your subject’s course outline to condense your notes down to important information. This will help you to strengthen your knowledge and revise more effectively!
<h4>2. Make Diagrams and Flowcharts</h4>
Trust us when we say these are your <a href="https://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/teachers/teachingresources/discipline/english/literacy/Pages/drawingvisualrepresentations.aspx">best friends</a> in your science revision! Map out your chosen topic to visualise and further your understanding of how everything interlinks. The cool thing is you can be as creative as you want! Grab your favourite pens and highlighters to explore and branch out content areas within a topic.
Depending on your preference, you can make it as pretty as you want. Or you can go full madman and treat the map as a brain-dump, by drawing out everything you know under the topic. For those that learn better digitally, it’s super easy to make flowcharts on platforms like <a href="https://www.google.com.au/amp/s/www.howtogeek.com/424397/how-to-create-a-flowchart-in-word/amp/">Word</a> and <a href="https://www.visme.co/flowchart-maker/">Visme</a>.
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<h4>3. Teach Others</h4>
A classic method in the book, but by far one of the most effective. Select a topic you want to consolidate, and teach it to someone else! Whether that be your parent, sibling, friend, dog or even yourself in the mirror, make sure to vocalise everything you know about the topic. This will help you identify areas you are still unfamiliar with and enhance your knowledge of other areas.
Our experienced and top-scoring tutors explore this revision method to greater detail on <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/wiki/general_tips/40/">RESN Wiki</a>! Take a look to ensure you’re on the right track.
<h4>4. Make the Most of Your Practice Exams</h4>
Are you panicking because you don’t have enough time to complete X number of exams? Let us stop you there. The golden rule is quality over quantity. There is no point churning out exam after exam without identifying areas of weakness to help you improve on the next. There are key differences in exam content between sciences.
Subjects such as <a href="https://physicsworld.com/">Physics</a> and <a href="https://www.livescience.com/45986-what-is-chemistry.html">Chemistry</a> require you to learn equations and formulas and apply them to different problems. This means exposing yourself to lots of practice questions to ensure minimal mistakes are made in your working out and interpretation of questions.
Content-heavy sciences such as <a href="https://www.psychology.org.au/for-the-public/about-psychology/What-is-psychology">Psychology</a> and <a href="https://phys.org/biology-news/">Biology</a> have specific exam marking. It is just as important to understand the content as it is to address all points a question asks.
When tackling practice exam questions:
<ul>
<li>Note the number of marks</li>
<li>Identify key words</li>
<li>Ensure your answer is specific and concise</li>
</ul>
After marking your practice exams, make sure to jot down any mistakes in a book. By doing so, you can refer to them if you encounter a similar question later on.
Short on practice questions? Hop onto <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Quizzes</a> for a large bank of practice questions for you to master your exam preparation!
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<h4>5. Reach Out for Support</h4>
There’s no sugar coating how this year has been. Each one of you has survived the school year and done your best in these tough circumstances, and we want to congratulate you for making it through!
Studying science this year was especially hard without labs, which are a crucial aspect of learning in most sciences. You may be feeling behind, unsure of how to approach revision or simply unmotivated. But it’s definitely not too late to get yourself up to speed! These final weeks are the best time to get support.
Good ways to seek help include:
<ul>
<li>Reaching out to teachers through email/after class.</li>
<li>Revising in groups or with friends/peers.</li>
</ul>
However, we understand that getting help from teachers and peers can be limited, especially with this year’s circumstances.
Have a question you’re aching to resolve right away? That’s why we at RESN have constructed and implemented various platforms to provide you the best academic support we can.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Wiki</a> contains our top tips, tricks and advice for acing your final years of high school.</li>
<li>At <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Help</a>, we enlist the knowledge and expertise of our top tutors to aid you with your VCE, HSC or QCE subjects.</li>
<li>Our exclusive FREE <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RESNtutoring/">RESN Zoom Consultations</a> (4-6pm every Wednesday and Thursday) are running if you have burning questions or need help in your final exam preparation!</li>
</ul>
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We hope these tips aid you in your science exam preparation. Even though it’s crunch-time before exams, remember that balance is key. Between churning through practice exams and revision material, make sure to give yourself downtime to rest and <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-does-realistic-self-care-look-like">take care of yourself</a>.
At RESN, we have your back and wish you all the best for your science exam preparation.
We believe in you!
By Catherine Le

Completely lost with organic chemistry? Can't seem to wrap your head around quantum physics? Here are our top tips to help you ace your final science exams!

Exam Prep 101: Science

It’s one month until your exam. Maybe you’re starting to stress out. Maybe you’re in denial that your exams are so soon. Or maybe you’re feeling pretty good. Whichever boat you’re in, we’ve compiled our top tips that will see you safely to shore!
MAKE THE MOST OF RESN RESOURCES
At RESN, we design our resources based on our own experience as students. We want you to make the most of our collective knowledge.
Use the <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Help</a> forum to bombard us with questions about any subject, or even an essay you want feedback on. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours (yes, we promise). You can even ask us questions about general study tips, and post-school options.
Check out our <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Quizzes</a> for a database full of exam-style questions. Once you’ve answered, we’ll give you a model answer to correct yours against. Can’t get your hands on many full practice exams? We’ve got you.
Have a read of our <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Wikis</a> , where we compile subject-specific info. You’ll see our FAQ’s and our top tricks for nailing each subject.
We’ve recently launched <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RESNtutoring/">RESN Free Zoom Consultations</a> every Wednesday and Thursday 4pm-6pm. Got a burning, subject-specific question, or concern? Join our wonderful tutors on Zoom and fire away!
PRACTICE EXAMS: THE RUNDOWN
We all know <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/wiki/general_tips/38/">practice exams</a> are key to succeeding in Year 12.
But did you know that practicing your <a href="https://www.jacaranda.com.au/blog/free-teacher-resources/year-12-exam-preparation-guide-free-printable-infographic/">exam technique</a> is just as important as knowing your content?
Each and every practice exam is an opportunity to see what the real deal will be like. Make the most of it. Try to mirror the conditions of your real exams.
Turn off your music, put a ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign on your bedroom door, and set your timer.
Your first practice exams will probably suck. You won’t be used to the closed-book conditions and limited time. But don’t give up! With every practice exam you do, make sure to note down mistakes and areas of weakness. Gradually, it will get easier, and you’ll begin to learn how best to approach each section/question.
Short on practice exams? Check out our practice-exam style questions on our <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Quizzes</a>.
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STUDY TIPS
Now is the perfect time to decide which study techniques work best for you and your learning style. <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">Studying</a> is so specific to each and every one of us, so don’t get too caught up in what others are doing.
Do you consider yourself a <a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/study-tips-for-visual-learners-4048480">visual learner?</a>? If so, get your hands on a whiteboard. Draw yourself mind-maps and diagrams that apply the content in ways you can remember.
Or are you a <a href="https://collegeinfogeek.com/flash-card-study-tips/">flashcards</a> person? Pro-tip: don’t fall into the trap of spending all your time making your flashcards, instead of testing yourself. There’s lots of controversy around the hand-written/typed notes debate, but don’t waste time you don’t have.
Whatever you choose, make sure your flashcards help you consolidate knowledge. There’s a tonne of <a href="https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/make-flashcards-online/">online flashcard-creators</a> you can use.
LOOK AFTER YOURSELF
Sleep well, exercise, and eat-well. This is probably the most trotted-out piece of advice. But let’s be real, it’s not always <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-does-realistic-self-care-look-like">realistic</a> or possible to do them all (especially in the lead-up to exams).
Instead, make your aim to look after yourself. If that means gorging yourself on TimTams, then go for it! Your main priority should be your <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/self-care-september-is-here">mental health</a>.
Be kind to yourself. Encourage yourself to do better each week, but don’t fret over the little fails. Trying your best is way better than not trying at all, just because you’re afraid of failing.
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Most importantly? <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-do-you-know-when-its-time-to-ask-for-help">Ask for help</a> when you need it. We’re here for you at RESN, and we want to see you do your absolute best in these exams. All you gotta do is reach out!
Words by Ella Katz

It’s one month until your exam. Maybe you’re starting to stress out. Maybe you’re in denial that your exams are so soon. Or maybe you’re feeling pretty good. Whichever boat you’re in, we’ve compiled our top tips that will see you safely to shore!

The Exam Series: A Month Before The Exam

Procrastination. Everybody does it. Whether it’s deciding to re-organise your bedroom the day before a big assignment is due, or simply scrolling for hours on insta when it’s supposed to be a <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-take-a-break-but-not-procrastinate">5-minute break</a> - we’ve all been there. But procrastination isn’t just about <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/25/smarter-living/why-you-procrastinate-it-has-nothing-to-do-with-self-control.html">laziness</a>. According to this <a href="http://eprints.whiterose.ac.uk/91793/1/Compass%20Paper%20revision%20FINAL.pdf">2013 study</a>, we procrastinate because we want to make ourselves feel better in the short-term, rather than achieve our goals in the long-term.
But not all procrastinators are made equal (shout-out to the ones who procrastinate by cleaning). So, what type of procrastinator are you? And what the flip should you do about it?
The One Afraid Of Failure
You’re a perfectionist. You know that you’ve set your standards so high that you don’t want to risk not meeting them.
Try being more compassionate to yourself. Remind yourself it’s entirely <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/fearless-you/201506/9-reasons-you-procrastinate-and-9-ways-stop">okay</a> for this assignment to not be the best one you’ve ever done.
Either way, you’ll never know until you get going…
The Overwhelmed One
You have so much on your plate that you don’t even know where to start. So instead, you decide that now is the time to alphabetise your book-shelf.
Take a deep breath. Instead of thinking about everything that needs to get done, try to think about one thing at a time.
You could try starting with the easiest task. That way, you’ll feel the gratification of ticking a box, and you’ll have smashed a task!
The One Who Can't Walk The Talk
You’re a dreamer. You tell yourself you’ll wake up at 6am and do all your homework, but instead you’re still in bed at 10am watching TikToks.
You need some structure. Dreaming is great, but it’s only the first step. Keep things realistic and break down the steps involved.
Writing out a to-do list or a schedule can be super helpful to keep yourself <a href="https://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifehack/6-reasons-on-why-are-you-procrastinating.html">focussed</a>.
The One Who Just Can't Be Bothered
We all go through this, and it’s totally okay. Some days you just don’t feel like it, and when you get these days, listen to yourself.
Take a second to consider what your priority is at that point. Is it getting into your dream uni course? Or maybe you’ve had a super rough week, and your priority is to make sure you’re looking after your <a href="https://headspace.org.au/">mental health</a>.
Both are valid.
The One Who Is Genuinely Struggling
Your procrastination isn’t something to joke about anymore. You literally don’t feel like getting out of bed, let alone smashing out a 1500-word essay.
Sometimes serious procrastination can be a sign of <a href="https://solvingprocrastination.com/why-people-procrastinate/#The_short_version">mental illnesses</a> such as <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/16506073.2015.1059353">depression</a> , anxiety or ADHD.
Don’t beat yourself up. <a href="https://au.reachout.com/">Reach out</a> and ask for <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-do-you-know-when-its-time-to-ask-for-help">help</a>. Talk to your teachers, your parents, your friends… whoever feels right. See if you can get an extension or ask what academic considerations are available.
Being a procrastinator doesn’t make you lazy. It makes you human. So, take these tips on-board, write that to-do list, put your phone away, and get going. You’ve got this.
Words by Ella Katz

Procrastination. Everybody does it. But procrastination isn’t just about laziness...

What Type of Procrastinator Are You? (And What to Do About It)

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Exams are a month away and we understand that the stress is starting to build up. We have some strategies to help keep you calm and on track not only during <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/self-care-september-is-here">Self-Care September</a> but also beyond.
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<h4>1. Evaluate your priorities and goals.</h4>
When you are under intense pressure, like in the lead up to exams, it is important to be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel so consider - <a href="https://this.deakin.edu.au/study/how-to-set-successful-goals-in-vce">what’s your light</a>?
Ask yourself these questions: What are your goals? Why are you <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/why-do-you-study">working so hard</a> towards these goals? How can you achieve these goals in <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">small but specific steps</a>?
<h4>2. Identify and resolve any stressors.</h4>
Sometimes the best way you can relieve stress and stay focused is to <a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stress-treatments">remove the source of anxiety</a>.
If you are nervous about your English exam tomorrow (no, you can’t remove it), this might include <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">writing a practice essay</a>. If you’ve got a friend <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-do-you-know-when-its-time-to-ask-for-help">whose mental health you are worried about</a>, send them a text.
However, we often get caught up in the <a href="https://www.sane.org/information-stories/the-sane-blog/managing-symptoms/how-to-stop-catastrophising">situations we create in our mind</a> about what is going to happen in the future or what we wished we could change, which is why the next piece of advice might be useful.
<h4>3. Focus on the present.</h4>
It is easy to stress out about your ATAR or maybe the fact you <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-comes-next-how-to-decide-what-course-best-suits-you">haven’t really decided what you want to do after high school</a>, but the key is to focus on the present and what steps you can take to do your best.
Try to set some time aside to make a long term plan that will set you up for success and what little things you can do each day to meet that goal, like <a href="https://www.insightpublications.com.au/exam-preparation-strategies-for-remembering-quotes/">writing down what English quotes</a> you can remember or timing how many multiple-choice questions you can answer on an exam.
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<h4>4. Use the Eisenhower matrix.</h4>
This <a href="https://www.eisenhower.me/eisenhower-matrix/">time management grid</a> is useful when you have a lot of tasks on your to-do list due but you don’t know where to start.
Tasks are divided into two categories: tasks that are due in a limited amount of time or are urgent and tasks that have value or are important.
Tasks that are both urgent and important are put in the top left corner of the matrix and they are the tasks you do first, followed by the ones you should do later, delegate and eliminate.
<h4>5. Place a buffer on your plans.</h4>
When life consumes the time we had dedicated to studying or doing practice exams, it can be quite stressful. So, let’s try and prepare for the worst, but hope for the best.
<a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/its-never-too-soon-to-revise-old-content-3-reasons-why">Plan ahead</a>, start doing practice essays a week earlier than you planned, tell your family not to interrupt you for the next hour, or even make the time you dedicated to studying half-an-hour longer in case you do get interrupted.
Life doesn’t always go to plan, but if this year has taught us anything, it’s that we can adapt and keep pushing forward.
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It is a stressful time and crazy year but with these tips we hope you can overcome your fears and tackle the final hurdles for the school year!
Remember to <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-take-a-break-but-not-procrastinate">take a break</a> and to <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-comes-next-how-to-decide-what-course-best-suits-you">take care of yourself</a> too.
Good luck!
By Xenia Sanut

Exams are a month away and we understand that the stress is starting to build up. We have some strategies to help keep you calm and on track not only during Self-Care September but also beyond.

How to Stay On Track During Stressful Times

There’s no doubt that Year 11 and 12 are <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-11/year-12-exams-are-they-worth-the-stress/9029260">stressful years</a>. But, how do you know when it’s more than just ‘normal’ stress? Given it’s <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/self-care-september-is-here">Self-Care September</a>, we chatted with Nick Barrington, a Mental Health Nurse and Family Therapist at Latrobe University’s <a href="https://www.latrobe.edu.au/school-psychology-and-public-health/departments/bouverie-centre">Bouverie centre</a>. Nick trains mental health practitioners who specialise in helping rural and regional young adults.
So how do we know when it’s more than ‘normal’ stress?
Nick told us that adolescence is a common time to begin experiencing mental health challenges. Some of the most common include <a href="https://www.beyondblue.org.au/">depression and anxiety</a>, which of course, aren’t helped by the stresses of Year 11 and 12. It’s easy to brush it off as being <a href="https://year13.com.au/articles/5-signs-youre-just-tired">“just tired”</a> or blame it on school stress.
Nick’s says it’s time to start thinking seriously about asking for help “when that stress is not easing up at any point, when you can’t find little bits of lightness in amongst that”. Like any illness, it’s best to catch it early and ask for help sooner rather than later - “once we’re in holes, it’s really hard to dig ourselves out.”
How do we ask for help?
Asking for help can be intimidating. It means being vulnerable at a time when you’re already shaky. According to Nick, it can be easy to worry about how people will respond, or how they will think of you once you tell them. The key? “Finding a person that you feel comfortable asking for support from”.
“As health workers, we often head towards <a href="https://www.lifeline.org.au/real-experiences/community-perspectives/rural-mental-health/">formal supports</a>, but I think it’s important not to forget our informal supports. Friends and family are great first contact points.” Nick also mentions that sometimes family aren’t the best support contacts, and that’s totally fine.
“It might be a friend, a parent of a friend, a GP, somebody that’s in a more formal position of help…”. Nick explains that sometimes, it can feel more comfortable having someone to talk to who you <a href="https://forums.au.reachout.com/t5/Getting-Help/Going-to-the-school-counselor-for-the-first-time/td-p/66831">don’t know personally</a>, and who is in a formal position of helping – like a <a href="https://www.teenvogue.com/story/why-go-to-school-therapist">school counselor</a>.
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What if our family isn’t very helpful?
Our families can have lots of separate stresses and sometimes aren’t the most helpful. Most of the time our families truly do want to support us, but they simply don’t know what that looks like. Nick suggests that even if you don’t feel your family can help you out, it’s best to let them know what you’re going through. This way, at least they are <a href="https://happiful.com/how-to-talk-to-family-about-mental-health/">aware</a>. “I’m just letting you know…” can be a helpful starter.
“Be clear about what it is you would like from them”. Do you want them to help you find a mental health professional to speak to? Or do you just want a hug? <a href="https://www.mhanational.org/time-talk-talking-your-parents">Spell it out</a>.
How do we support a friend who’s struggling?
It can be rough to see a friend struggling. According to Nick, checking in with them and letting them know you’re there for support if they need is a helpful move. In some cases, being supportive doesn’t have to mean asking them about what they’re going through. It can even just be making time to hang out together and letting them bring their stresses up if they want to.
If your friend does bring it up, try to find a <a href="https://www.ruok.org.au/findhelp">resource</a> you can suggest. “I spoke to Ms Collins and she was super helpful” can be a great way to support your friend.
Nick explains that it’s important to <a href="https://www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask">support</a> and not force. “People tend to find it harder to take up supports when they feel forced to do so… the last thing any of us like when we’re stressed is to feel extra pressure on ourselves to do a certain thing or be a certain way”.
What are your favourite self-care practices?
We’ve written a whole post on <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-does-realistic-self-care-look-like">realistic self-care</a> , but here are Nick’s favourite things.
“I’ve been spending a lot more time in the garden… For me, being outside is incredibly important. Fresh air and actual sunlight are of great value”. Nick also likes to do some sort of physical activity – whether it’s going for a ride or bouncing on the trampoline with his young kids.
Nick added that connecting with his family was also key. “We’ve got out Nintendo set up on our TV, so we come together to race each other at Mario Kart”.
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What services are available?
Nick is well aware that accessing formal mental health support can be even more challenging when you live rurally. That’s why he thinks online resources are so valuable. Most of them are free, but you do have to make an account for some. Here’s a list of Nick’s favourites:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://headspace.org.au/eheadspace/">eHeadspace</a> (connects you with professionals online)</li>
<li><a href="https://moodgym.com.au/?gclid=CjwKCAjw-5v7BRAmEiwAJ3DpuBxDRXl2lH9clxO0DqDE0GrzC48vxW73kxhOboxBZltsnmAKiRm0fRoC5PwQAvD_BwE">Moodgym</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.biteback.org.au/MentalFitnessChallenge/FindOutMore">Bite Back Mental Fitness Challenge</a></li>
</ul>
Nick also suggests that chatting to your GP is a good start. They can make you a mental health plan and connect you with other professionals. Going to your GP also means you can get financial assistance so seeking help doesn’t break the bank.
So reach out, ask for the help you need, and give support to friends that need it. Resources are there to be used. You’ve got this.
Want some more tips about studying? Check out our post on how to take a break without procrastinating <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-take-a-break-but-not-procrastinate">here</a>. Want to know <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">how to study ‘smarter not harder’</a>? We’ve got you covered.

There’s no doubt that Year 11 and 12 are stressful years. But, how do you know when it’s more than just ‘normal’ stress? We talked to Nick Barrington, a mental health nurse, to chat all things asking for help.

How Do You Know When It's Time to Ask for Help?

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Since exams are swiftly approaching, our mental health is definitely taking a back seat as we focus more on <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/its-never-too-soon-to-revise-old-content-3-reasons-why">revising content</a> and doing practice exams.
So let’s be realistic, how can we find the time to take care of ourselves but not end up <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-take-a-break-but-not-procrastinate">procrastinating or getting distracted</a>?
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<h4>1. Make yourself a nice meal.</h4>
Instead of grabbing the bag of chips from the pantry when you get hungry, try turning on the stove and making yourself a yummy meal.
Cooking is calming because it allows you to be creative and <a href="https://www.beyondblue.org.au/personal-best/pillar/wellbeing/cooking-meditation-in-disguise">stay focused on the task at hand</a>.
You also get something to eat afterwards so it’s definitely a win-win situation!
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<h4>2. Have a change of scenery.</h4>
It’s time to close the laptop or the textbook and <a href="https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/news/working-from-home-a-checklist-to-support-your-mental-health-during-coronavirus/">get some fresh air</a>.
It’s a <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/self-care-september-is-here">common self-care activity</a> for many people on our RESN team as it allows you to clear your head and reminds you that the world is bigger than your laptop.
Whether you take a walk or sit in your backyard, either is a great form of self-care.
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<h4>3. Tidy things up a bit.</h4>
Sometimes <a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/the-block/cleaning-jobs-15-minute-work-break-how-to-be-productive/bfa75d07-8df4-443c-97d8-e654b5633463">folding your clothes</a> or tidying up your desk can be a productive way of taking care of your mind and wellbeing.
It relaxes your mind from long periods of study by focusing on something with less brain power.
Not only will you have a clean room or workspace but you’ll also have a clearer mind!
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<h4>4. Sit down and have a chat.</h4>
We often underestimate the power that our conversations and <a href="https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/news/friendships-mental-health">connections with people</a> have on improving our mental health.
Our relationships provide us with the much needed <a href="https://headtohealth.gov.au/supporting-someone-else/how-to-support-someone">emotional support</a> and encouragement to get us through this difficult time.
Try catching up with your friends and family -- if restrictions allow -- and talk about how life has been. It will do wonders for your wellbeing and also for <a href="https://www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask?campaign=285465530&amp;content=300811345567&amp;keyword=mental%20health&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwqML6BRAHEiwAdquMnU5JCI1yFdvyHjpd5nggN574iMwMrJjPl_XhJaIk36YVGQrrraftNBoCBCAQAvD_BwE">theirs too</a>.
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<h4>5. Listen to some music.</h4>
Did you know music helps alleviate stress and <a href="https://www.openminds.org.au/news/5-positive-effects-music-mental-health">improve your mood</a>?
That means that there’s absolutely no shame in <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/the-athletes-way/201712/singing-your-heart-out-has-surprising-psychological-benefits">singing along</a> to your favourite songs and <a href="https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/dance-health-benefits">dancing around the house</a> because you absolutely deserve it.
So why not pop on some tunes and dance the exam stress away?
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<h4>6. Do something you enjoy doing for a little while.</h4>
Perhaps you don’t like listening to music, cleaning or cooking, but everyone has something that they enjoy and helps them relax.
If you’ve started questioning <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/why-do-you-study">what all the study is for</a> or are tired of <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-comes-next-how-to-decide-what-course-best-suits-you">deciding your future</a>, take a break and do something you love.
It can be as niche as you want, just as long as it brings you joy and happiness.
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Sometimes it’s the small things that help us stay healthy and motivated.
But when you feel ready to get back into the thick of <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">studying smarter, not harder</a>, check out the <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Quizzes &amp; Wiki</a> which will get you all set for exams.
Good luck! We believe in you!
By Xenia Sanut

Exams are swiftly approaching and our mental health is definitely taking a back seat, how can we find the time to take care of ourselves but not end up procrastinating?

What Does Realistic Self-Care Look Like?

Self-care… That’s when you light candles and watch bath-bombs fizz away, right? Wrong! At RESN, we know that being a Year 11/12 student is stressful stuff. Just as a band aid can’t heal a bullet-hole, we know that jojoba-oil face masks won’t fix real problems. We also know that your mental health can have a massive impact on your ability to achieve your academic goals. That’s why we’ve dedicated the entire month of September to bringing you real solutions to real problems.
We’ll be asking questions like: What does realistic self-care look like? How and when should I ask for help? What support services are available to rural/regional students? We’ll also be chatting to some mental health professionals to get the low-down on looking after ourselves and others.
In the meantime, here are some thoughts to get us started on our self-care shake-up:
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Why is Self-Care So Important?
We’ve all got our ups and downs. Self-care is a way of recognising where you’re at, and helping yourself get through whatever it is you’re facing. It’s all about being honest with yourself. Whether you got a bad mark on a practice exam, or you’re going through some friendship troubles, take a moment to think about what you can do for yourself that will get you feeling ready to face the challenges ahead.
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There’s No One Way to Do Self-Care
Let’s redefine self-care. It isn’t a prescribed set of activities, and it goes way beyond doing yoga and skincare. Our take? Self-care is for everyone, and it’s the simple act of checking in with yourself. This can look different for everyone. It can be as small as having a cuppa on the porch or asking your dad for advice.
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Our Favourite (Realistic) Self-Care Activities
When we asked some of our RESN team members what they do for self-care, we realised just how personal it is:
<ul>
<li>
Bailey (20, Head of Recruitment) explained that when he needs to take his mind off things, he heads into the backyard, and tries to shoot as many hoops in a row as possible. The repetition allows him to zone out, and momentarily forget about whatever is bugging him.
</li>
<li>
Hannah (20, Head of Media) told us “anytime I’m feeling crap or not myself I take the absolute hottest shower possible… I also like to pray and reconnect with my Judaism”.
</li>
<li>
For Jun (21, Head of Tutoring), it’s as simple as making a good breakfast in the morning and getting some fresh air.
</li>
<li>
Sof (21, Secretary &amp; Treasurer) finds that doing a tidy-up of her space does the trick. It helps her “unwind and process things… and makes me feel so much better about what I have ahead of me”.
</li>
<li>
For Rish (20, Head of Volunteering), getting outside in nature is the key to self-care. “Whether that’s a walk, a run, or just sitting in my backyard, little else does better to re-centre me”.
</li>
</ul>
Feeling stressed about choosing a uni degree? Check out our previous <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-comes-next-how-to-decide-what-course-best-suits-you">post</a>. Want some more inspo? Chuck <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/why-do-you-study">this</a> a read.
Take a minute to check-in with yourself and stay tuned for an amazing month of self-care content. You’ve got this!
Words by Ella Katz

Self-care… That’s when you light candles and watch bath-bombs fizz away, right? Wrong!

Self-Care September is Here!

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Course applications have opened and it seems crazy that we have to decide what we’ll do after high school when the future is so uncertain.
Don’t worry, we have some awesome tips to help you finalise those course preferences and to get you ready for university in no time.
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1. Try a generalist degree.
You might have heard this term floating around from your careers coordinators or at open days, but what exactly is it?
Generalist or comprehensive degrees are degrees that allow you to study a wide range of subjects.
They include degrees like arts, business, information technology and science which allow you to try a bit of everything before deciding what you’ll major in.
The opposite of generalist degrees are specialist degrees which tailor you towards a certain career, such as law, education or medicine.
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2. Check out the student handbook.
You might be familiar with your interested universities’ ‘future students’ page, as it has heaps of important information like entry requirements, majors and specialisations.
But there is a whole other side called the student handbook which tells you what subjects make up your major and which units you can take each semester. If you like the look of the subjects, chances are you’ll like the degree!
If you’re tossing up between a couple of areas of study, Googling the student handbook at the might help you narrow them down.
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3. Find out how the content will be delivered.
Now, are you more interested in theory? Or in taking the practical approach? If you take a look at how your degree and classes are structured, it might help you decide which degree you like better.
Depending on the university, your degree might have a compulsory work placement or a practical component which might be a good choice if you fancy applying your knowledge in a real-world context.
However, if you’re more interested in going into research, maybe you would like a degree that focuses more on theory and writing reports -- either way there will be a university out there that is a good fit for you!
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4. Don’t worry if you don’t choose the right degree the first time.
We try to make the right decision from the get-go by attending heaps of open days and asking careers advice from hundreds of people but you can never really know whether a degree feels right until you try it.
There is always the opportunity to transfer to different courses, or even different universities! If you don’t end up getting your first preference or you don’t end up liking your degree, don’t sweat it.
While transferring might mean that it will take longer to graduate than you expected, at least you will graduate knowing that you did a degree you loved at a university where you made heaps of fond memories.
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But if you’re finding it hard to justify why you’re studying so much, check out our earlier article about <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/why-do-you-study">why we study</a>!
Take care of yourself and remember that you’re doing a great job! We believe in you!

It seems crazy that we have to decide what we’ll do after high school when the future is so uncertain. Don’t worry, we have some awesome tips to help you finalise those course preferences and to get you ready for university in no time.

What Comes Next? How to Decide What Course Best Suits You

RESN is excited to announce that our Quizzes and Wiki have launched!
Our online tutoring service has expanded to deliver three services to cater for three different learning styles. Whether you have specific questions, you want to practice applying your skills, or you want to gain a more in-depth understanding of a topic – we have you covered.
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RESN Help is our existing question-and-answer service.
RESN Quizzes is a database full of exam-style questions that helps to bridge the gap in resources available to regional and rural students. You can upload answers to the questions, and you’ll receive model answers right away. After marking your answers yourself, you'll have the option of receiving further feedback from a tutor should you require it.
RESN Wiki is designed to provide you with specific information relating to each subject. In these regularly-updated blogs and pages, you will find information based on frequently asked questions from students. You'll also have access to our tutors' best tips and tricks and general information about how to get through Year 11/12, university courses, and careers.
Available to all regional and rural students - login to the RESN Web App and try our resources today!

RESN Quizzes & Wiki have launched! A bank of original questions specific to VCE and a dynamic database of helpful information - all available through the RESN Portal.

RESN Quizzes & Wiki Have Launched

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Why do you study? Yep, you read that right. Why? Think about it.
For so many years of our school lives, we tell ourselves we have to. Until Year 10, it’s our parent’s decision, but after then, we can legally leave if we wanted - so why don’t we?
If you’re anything like me, you love to complain about the things you ‘have to do’. School-work, uni-work, work-work. The harder it is, the more I complain to myself. But over the years, I’ve learnt something important about studying. When it gets hard, when I can’t understand something or I get a bad result, all I need to do is return to this question – Why do I study?
The question snaps me out of playing victim and slaps a bit of reality into me. I don’t ‘have to’ do anything. It may seem unlikely when you’re half-asleep in a maths class, but education is a privilege, and many don’t have access to it.
Maybe you’re like Bailey (20, Head of Recruitment at RESN), and your why is something along the lines of “we all only get one shot at what we do each day, so we better make the most of it - if I can do well, then I feel obliged to”. If you know you’re capable of getting a certain grade, are you selling yourself short by settling for anything less? You might be like Jim (20, grew up in Wellington, rural NSW). Jim sees studying as a way to “break the chain and make sure I have options”. Jim grew up on his family farm but his passion lies in psychology. Studying allows him to pursue that.
Now, I know that it’s not always fun. We’ve all been there. Hamish (22, Head of Strategy at RESN) also remembers not enjoying many of his subjects in school, and feeling as though studying was just something he ‘had to do’. He has since realised that the skills he has learnt through education have “impacted my thinking and my views on the world. I feel far more informed and knowledgeable and that is worth everything to me”.
So next time you feel like giving up or setting your biology notes on fire, take a second and take a breath. Ask yourself why it is that you persist and keep this why at the core of your study. You’ve got this!
Words by Ella Katz

Feel like setting your revision notes on fire? Take a breath and give this post a read!

Why Do You Study?

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Great job! You’ve been studying a lot for that test or essay you have coming up so now it’s time to take a break.
You tell yourself it’ll be short so you pick up your phone and open TikTok, scroll through Instagram or catch up on the last bit of that TV episode you were watching.
But after a while you look at the clock and notice it’s been hours since you decided to take a break.
You’ve watched heaps of TikTok videos, tons of Instagram stories and an entire season of that TV show but you’re not feeling prepared for that assignment anymore.
You know what? That’s okay! It’s a common struggle and we’re here to help you out. Here are some ways to prevent turning breaks from only five minutes into five hours:
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1. Grab a bite to eat.
It’s okay to go to the fridge and grab some food. It can be a reward for the hard work you’ve been doing.
However, remind yourself that’s all you should be doing. You want to make sure that the energy you gain from eating is put into good use – like studying!
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2. Stretch your legs.
It can be bad for your health to be sitting around and studying for too long, so at least once every hour try standing up and taking a little walk around the house.
You can also do a few stretches. Try rotating your neck and your shoulders to relieve any tension that has been built up from sitting down for too long.
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3. Meditate.
It’s also a good way to give your mind a break because your brain can only work productively for so long.
Close your eyes and clear your head of any thoughts – especially thoughts that are making you feel anxious.
If you need a little guidance, why not try some meditation apps like Smiling Mind or Calm? Either way you’ll return to studying feeling refreshed and with a new perspective.
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4. Get necessary tasks done.
If you’re scared that you’ll find yourself getting distracted, set yourself a five-minute timer and do all the tasks that aren’t studying that you need to get done.
Answer any important emails. Send a couple of messages. Check the mailbox. Bring out the boms. Once that’s all done, it’s time to get back into it.
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5. Avoid anything addictive or passive.
If you start doing an easy activity, like scrolling through social media or watching funny videos, it stimulates the reward system in your brain and gets it saying to itself, ‘Huh? Study? What study?’
Try leaving that stuff for longer breaks and tell your brain, ‘Hey, stop. You’ve got a test to ace'.
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Want some more tips on smart study? You can find them <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">here</a>! However, if you need a bit more convincing, check out our <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/its-never-too-soon-to-revise-old-content-3-reasons-why">reasons why you should revise old content</a>!
Good luck, everyone!
Words by Xenia Sanut

Breaks that turn into procrastinating is a common struggle but we’re here to help you out! Here are some ways to prevent turning breaks from only five minutes into five hours.

How to Take a Break but Not Procrastinate

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Revision takes time. Even the brightest kid in the school can’t leave revising an entire unit to the night before the exam and still ace it. We know it’s probably not what you want to hear, but we’ve decided to burst your bubble now, rather than when you’re 2 days and 3 mental breakdowns away from your first Year 12 exam.
What if we re-imagined revision? Instead of it being another word for cramming, we reckon revising regularly throughout the year is the key to succeeding in your exams. Here’s our take on why:
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<h4>1. Learnt ≠ Memorised</h4>
Year 12 subjects are often taught over an entire year, so naturally, the content you learnt at the start of Term 1 won’t be as fresh in your brain as the last topics you’re taught.
According to Jun (Head of Tutoring at RESN), “the mistake many students make is thinking that having learnt a topic previously means it’ll come back to them quickly. This isn’t always the case, and probably won’t be if you leave a topic untouched for more than half a year!”
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<h4>2. Our Brains Are Lazy</h4>
A lot of the research out there suggests that you retain more if you break your revision up into small and regular chunks. This <a href="http://http://www.suttontrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/What-Makes-Great-Teaching-REPORT.pdf">report</a> recommends a technique called ‘spacing’. This means giving yourself gaps between revision sessions to allow yourself to forget and re-learn the content. Pretty cool, right? Basically, it’s looking like 1 hour of revision a week trumps a 3 day cramming session in terms of what you’ll actually remember when you sit down in the exam!
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<h4>3. Less Stress, More Success</h4>
Exams can be daunting - especially when you approach one feeling under-prepared. So, why not be kinder to your future-self and map out a way to approach the exam-period with your revision well under way?
Jun says spending just 15 minutes every second day on a subject will mean you’re comfortable and familiar with the old content, while you learn the new stuff. According to our maths that adds up to a whopping 21 hours per subject after 6 months!
Want more tips on how to study ‘smarter not harder’? Check out our <a href="http://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps.com">post</a>. Have more questions? Feel free to submit any study-related questions on your portal. You’ve got this!
Words by Ella Katz

What if we re-imagined revision? Instead of it being another word for cramming, we reckon revising regularly throughout the year is the key to succeeding in your exams. Here’s our take on why.

It's Never Too Soon To Revise Old Content: 3 Reasons Why

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‘Study smarter, not harder’ is advice that floats around a lot when you’re in Year 11 and 12 -- but what does that even mean? And how do you even follow it?
In summary, ‘studying smart’ is making the most of the time you spend studying.
It’s an incredibly important skill, especially since Year 11 and 12 can be very busy and you want to make the best use of your time.
Here are our top tips to help you master smart studying:
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<h4>1. Make specific and manageable goals.</h4>
It’s easy to say that we’re going to complete a practice exam in one sitting, but how many of us actually do it?
It can be daunting to start a task that large, so try and make your goals SMART. You should make them:
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Through SMART goal planning, you can break down a 1.5 hour practice exam with 40 marks by thinking of it as keeping to 2 minutes for each mark, which makes studying manageable and overcoming hurdles easier.
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<h4>2. Study in short and intensive chunks.</h4>
It might be tempting to cram the night before a test, but your brain struggles to process all that information in one go and you’ll burn out quickly.
A good way to structure your study is by doing it for 25 minutes before taking a five-minute break after.
Once you do that three more times, you can reward yourself with a longer break.
This strategy, also known as the Pomodoro Technique, can prevent burnout and helps you complete any task, not just studying.
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<h4>3. Remove all distractions.</h4>
Distractions are the easiest form of procrastination, but it’s generally what stops us all from studying effectively.
If distractions are a common barrier, try and study at a desk or a location that you will mainly use for studying.
If you know you spend hours on TikTok or Instagram, put your phone in another room.
We all know that procrastination is tempting when you’re working on a computer, so trying using Self Control to help block you from accessing websites like Netflix and YouTube for a set amount of time.
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While there are a lot of great study tips out there, we hope these three steps make picking up that notebook and pen easier and we encourage you to find what study strategy works best for you.
Good luck! And happy studying!
Words by Xenia Sanut

‘Study smarter, not harder’ is advice that floats around a lot when you’re in Year 11 and 12  -- but what does that even mean? And how do you even follow it?