Matric exams are now underway, and students are feeling the pressure. With several days left, it’s crucial to stay focused and make the most of this final stretch. Here are practical tips to help students study smart and finish strong.
The Department of Basic Education offers its top 10 study tips. Follow these strategies to boost focus, retention, and exam performance.
Top 10 study tips:
- Have all your study materials ready before you begin – pencils, pens, highlighters, paper, and so on.
- Stay positive. Remind yourself of the importance of what you are learning to help your brain retain the information and earn the marks.
- Take a walk outside. Change your scenery to stimulate learning and absorb more after getting some fresh air.
- Break your learning sections into manageable parts. Trying to learn too much at once can leave your brain tired, unfocused and anxious.
- Keep study sessions short but effective, and reward yourself with short, constructive breaks.
- Teach the concepts to anyone who will listen. It might feel strange at first, but reading your revision notes aloud helps reinforce your learning.
- Use colours and pictures wherever possible. They help your brain learn and remember
information more effectively. - Be confident in the areas you know well and focus your energy on the sections that are
more challenging. - Repetition is the key to retaining information.
- Sleeping at least eight hours every night, eating properly and drinking plenty of water are all important things you need to do for your brain.
While learners focus on studying, their brains need proper fuel to perform at their best. Tip 10 from the Department of Basic Education reminds us that sleep, hydration, and nutrition are vital. Parents can support their children by providing healthy, brain-boosting meals and snacks that help maintain energy, focus, and concentration during this critical exam period.
Brain-boosting foods:
• Whole grains and slow-release carbohydrates for steady energy
• Fruits and vegetables for antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals
• Protein for neurotransmitter support and memory
• Omega-3 fatty acids for cognitive function
• Nuts, seeds, and dairy for sustained energy and nutrients.
’n Gebed vir die 2025-matrieks
Here, ons bring hul name na U, die jongmense wat drome dra,
met penne vol hoop en harte vol vuur,
op pad na die toekoms wat voor hul lê, so na.
Gee hul rus wanneer die spanning druk,
wysheid wanneer die vrae pla, moed wanneer twyfel hul denke ruk,
en vrede wat hul senuwees stil kan maak, ja.
Seën elke bladsy wat hulle lees, elke som, elke storie, elke feit,
dat kennis helder soos sonlig skyn
en hul pogings vrug dra, wyd en wyd.
Beskerm hulle teen vrees en twyfel, hou hulle vas as die pad te lank voel.
Laat hul glo: hul werk het waarde, en U hand lei hul deur elke doel.
Amen
