Do’s and Don’ts for Matric Exams

Matric students, this one’s for you! When it comes to preparing for and writing Matric exams, there’s a lot to remember, in addition to the actual study material you’ll be going through. Set yourself up for success by mastering our list of Do’s and Don’ts for Matric exams! This list covers everything from preparing for Matric exams (such as good study practices and routines) all the way through to your “night before” routine and what to do on exam day. 

Do give yourself lots of time to study and revise

We recommend getting started as soon as you can! This will set the tone for your study experience by eliminating the pressure to rush and cram all your studying and revising in. If you want to set yourself up for success during your Matric exams, then dedicate as much time as you possibly can to studying and revising. Managing your time well is a skill you will utilise beyond just your Matric exams, so mastering it now is an absolute must. 

Do use a timetable

One of the best ways to feel on top of your studying is by creating a reliable study timetable. Not only will you be practising the art of good time management, but you will also be taking larger tasks and breaking them down into smaller, more manageable chunks. Begin by jotting down each exam date, along with any other important events, commitments and school activities. Then use the rest of the time available for study sessions. If you’re a visual learner, consider colour-coding your study timetable!

Do take practice tests 

Practice tests will help you to identify the areas that require more work. In addition, you’ll get to practice answering exam questions under pressure. You could create your own practice tests, including tricky content that keeps popping up. Here’s a link to where you can find past Matric papers to go through!

Do prioritise sleep

Resist the urge to pull an all-nighter and instead, make sleep a big priority. Experts recommend getting 8 - 9 hours of sleep, with the same bedtime each night. You’ll wake up each morning feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day, whether you’ll be writing an exam or spending the day studying and revising. 

Do take breaks

The most productive people take breaks! A break from your studying will provide an opportunity for you to reset, refocus and refresh your mind. Take five minutes to stretch or walk to the other side of the house, and during your longer breaks of 30 to 60 minutes, get outside and breathe in some fresh air. 

Do create (and stick to) a good “night before” routine

Instead of cramming, follow our advice and create a great routine for the night before each Matric exam. What you do with this time can either make or break your performance! 

Here are some things you can do the night before each exam:

🗒️ Read over your summary notes.

🍽️ Eat a nutritious dinner.

📚 Pack your things, lay out your clothes and everything you will need for your exam.

⏰ Set your alarm clock and give yourself lots of time to eat a healthy breakfast and set off early the next morning.

😴 Sleep - a full 8 hours! Don’t just roll from your desk to your bed, but take time to unwind.

Don’t be late for your Matric exams!

We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes prior to the official start time. The exam time you are given is when you will begin writing the exam, not the time you should be arriving at the exam venue. Factor in time to show your identification documents (more on this below), find your seat, and get prepared! The last thing you want is to arrive late and flustered. 

Don’t forget your documents and equipment

For each Matric exam, you will need to present your admission letter and identification document, as well as your exam number. In addition, each exam will have its own stationary requirements, such as non-programmable calculators and other specialist equipment. Familiarise yourself with the requirements for each exam and pack the correct equipment the night before. 

Don’t misplace your exam number

Not only will you need to present your exam number at each exam, but you will also need this to obtain your results! 

Don’t ignore the reading time

At the start of each exam, you will be given 10 minutes of reading time. Use this mandatory reading time to carefully read through all the instructions and exam questions. Make a point of understanding each question before you rush to answer them. 

Don’t prepare on your own! 

The best way to prepare for your Matric exams is to enlist the help of a professional Tutor, who knows the content better than you do. An experienced Tutor will work with you to create a study timetable, help you develop good study routines and will customise your lessons according to your needs. You’ll cover all the content needed for your Matric exams as well as learn study skills and tricks to equip you for your university career too! Having helped many students successfully pass their Matric exams, Teach Me 2 Tutors are uniquely positioned to help you ace your Matric exams.

We have online tutors available as well as tutors in Johannesburg, tutors in Pretoria, tutors in Durban and tutors in Cape Town