Sibonginkosi Mabika

Preparing for examinations can be overwhelming, a structured and well-organised study approach can improve your performance. The Department of Student Counselling and Health at the Durban University of Technology suggests the following tips to overcome the pressures of preparing for your end of the year examinations.

1. Get organised

Organise your workspace, as part of exam preparations you should think about where you want to work and then organise that space. Physically separate your work from your relaxation space as this will help you to focus when you need to work and relax when it is time to relax.

2. Study Material

Make sure that your writing material and class notes are up to date and no sections are missing.

3. Motivation

Surround yourself with positive messages as studying is not easy and you feel like you need encouragement, which is normal. For example put up pictures of family and friends, quotations that inspire you, previous achievements like awards or certificates.

4. Healthy eating

Eating healthy nourishes your brain, energises, improves alertness and will sustain you during the long exam hours. Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. Eating unhealthy food that includes junk food and caffeine can make you feel sluggish, jittery or blunt out.

5. Sleeping

It is vital that you give yourself enough time to sleep (at least 8 hours a night) allowing your body and most importantly your brain to rest. Never work throughout the night. Not having enough sleep can negatively affect your ability to learn, accuracy and concentration.

6. Time

Draw up a weekly timetable. Include everything you want to do. Allocate revision time and balance your study time with leisure. Select a PRIME TIME to study, decide on what time you work best.

7. Positive attitude

Instead of seeing the exam as a scary challenge rather see it as a chance to demonstrate your knowledge.

End of the year examinations at DUT for annual students commenced on Monday, 7 September in all faculties and on the 29^th of September semester students will commence with their examinations.

The Student Counselling Centre advises students to make an appointment with them if you want to talk about any study-related or personal concerns.

Or contact them on 031 373 2266

#IzikoDUT wishes you all the best for your exams, Good Luck!