Staff Reporter
As South Africa’s higher education students work through the examination period, the pressure to perform can intensify.
With multiple assessments, demanding workloads and limited time between exams, many students find it difficult to stay focused, manage stress and maintain effective study routines, according to Pertunia Nkomo-Mofokeng, Deputy Dean: Teaching and Learning at Rosebank International.
She said students can still improve their preparation by prioritising the material they need to understand, using effective revision techniques and taking steps to protect their well-being throughout the examination period.
“Exam success is not determined by how much time you spend studying in the final few days before an assessment. It is achieved through consistent effort, effective study techniques and a balanced approach to learning throughout the examination period.
“Students who plan ahead and engage actively with their learning material place themselves in a much stronger position to succeed,” said Nkomo-Mofokeng.
Exam pressure can affect students’ mental and physical well-being, as well as their academic performance. For South African students, these pressures are compounded by financial difficulties, demanding workloads and uncertainty about their future prospects.
She advised that whether preparing for an upcoming paper or moving between assessments, students can adopt strategies to make their study time more productive.
Tip 1: Create a realistic study plan
With exams under way, students may need to adjust their original study plans to accommodate remaining assessments and areas where they need additional support.
Prioritise subjects that require more attention and set daily goals to keep yourself on track. A well-structured plan can reduce stress and help you feel more in control.
Tip 2: Focus on understanding, not memorising
Higher education assessments often require students to analyse, evaluate and apply knowledge rather than simply recall facts.
Instead of memorising notes word-for-word, focus on understanding key concepts and how they connect to real-world scenarios. Ask yourself how theories, frameworks or principles can be applied in practice.
Tip 3: Use active learning techniques
Passive reading is rarely enough to retain information effectively. Try active learning methods such as:
- Summarising concepts in your own words
- Creating mind maps
- Using flashcards
- Teaching a concept to a friend or study partner
- Testing yourself with practice questions
These techniques improve understanding and help strengthen long-term memory.
Tip 4: Practise with past papers and mock assessments
One of the most effective ways to prepare for exams is to practise under exam conditions. Past papers help you become familiar with question formats, identify knowledge gaps and improve time management. Completing practice assessments under timed conditions can also build confidence and reduce exam-day anxiety.
Tip 5: Break big tasks into smaller goals
Looking at an entire semester’s worth of work can feel overwhelming. Instead of focusing on everything at once, break study sessions into smaller, achievable objectives. Completing one chapter, one topic or one set of practice questions at a time creates momentum and makes studying more manageable.
Tip 6: Take care of your physical and mental well-being
Academic performance is closely linked to overall well-being. During the exams, make sure you:
- Get sufficient sleep each night
- Stay hydrated
- Eat balanced meals
- Take regular breaks
- Make time for physical activity
A healthy body and mind can improve concentration, memory retention and productivity.
Tip 7: Minimise distractions
Your study environment plays an important role in your ability to focus. Choose a quiet study space and reduce distractions by putting your phone on silent, closing unnecessary browser tabs and limiting social media use during study sessions. Even short periods of uninterrupted focus can significantly improve productivity.
Tip 8: Prepare for an exam a day in advance
Avoid unnecessary stress by planning ahead. Make sure you know your examination venue, time and requirements. Gather any materials you may need the night before and aim to arrive early. On the day, trust the preparation you have done and focus on answering the questions one step at a time
Nkomo-Mofokeng said that effective study habits during the exam season can contribute not only to academic success, but also to the lifelong skills needed in the workplace and beyond.
“Examinations are an opportunity for students to demonstrate what they have learnt and how they can apply that knowledge. By approaching exams with preparation, confidence and a positive mindset, students can maximise their potential and achieve their academic goals,” she said.
