Hitting the Books: 5 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Every Study Session

Your final high school years can be quite stressful, especially if you need to achieve a certain ATAR or study score to get into your preferred university degree. While we can’t take the stress out of the entire experience, we do have some tried and tested tips to share with you. Try them out to ensure you’re always getting the most out of every study session.

Two Heads Are Better Than One

A solid foundational strategy is to enlist the assistance of one or more VCE tutors, depending on how many subjects you need to ace to get into your course of choice. Two heads are better than one, and having help from someone who has already completed the course you’re currently undertaking can give you a distinct edge when it comes time to sit your SACs and exams.

Work out Before Your Study Session

You may also wish to work out before beginning each study session. While we understand that this isn’t always going to fit into your schedule, when you can find the time to exercise before hitting the books, you’ll find it easier to process and retain information. 

Exercise releases chemicals linked with improved mood and brain function, so you’re bound to get more out of your post-workout study sessions. 

Ensure Your Mind Is Sharp

If you can’t fit a workout in before your study session or need an added boost, don’t be afraid to kick your brain into gear with good-quality coffee or organic tea. While we wouldn’t suggest chugging caffeine all the time, it can significantly increase focus and has many other health-supporting properties when consumed in moderation.

Create an Environment Conducive to Focus

If you want to get the most out of your study sessions, it’s crucial to control your environment. Not all spaces are suitable for studying, and even those that are can still be tweaked to improve your comfort and focus while hitting the books. 

Start by ensuring you have an ergonomic chair, good lighting, and easy access to everything you need for that particular study session. Adding plants to your study space can be highly beneficial as they can boost your mood and reduce stress – two things you need to be mindful of when trying to focus.

Don’t Put Too Much Pressure on Yourself

Finally, remember to avoid putting too much pressure on yourself, especially if you’re squeezing in a last-minute session the night before a big test. While achieving the score that you need may seem like the most important thing in the world right now, there are many pathways to the career of your dreams. The ATAR you walk away with is just a number, and it’s important to remind yourself of this fact often. 

We’re not saying you shouldn’t put effort into your final years of high school. After all, a good score will afford you the most straightforward path to where you want to be. However, it is vital to remember that all is not lost if you don’t get the results you were aiming to achieve. As counterintuitive as it sounds, removing the pressure to succeed can help you perform better. By letting go, you will likely gain multiple benefits. 

The VCE is tough, but these tips can help you get the most out of your study seasons and get you one step closer to the results you want. Good luck!