As Grade 11 and 12 exams begin, many South African learners may feel overwhelmed. Research shows that excessive anxiety can impair concentration, memory, focus and academic performance.
With the 2026 National Senior Certificate examinations running from 13 October to 26 November, and the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) examinations from 15 September to 27 November, learners and parents are encouraged to have the right support structures to build confidence and reduces stress.
5 smart study strategies for your final exams
Susan Friederichs Van Harmelen, Dean of the Faculty of Education at Emeris, recommends evidence-based methods rather than simply spending more hours revising.
Exam success is not built in the final week,” says Friederichs Van Harmelen. “It comes from consistent, purposeful preparation. Learners who understand, practise and protect their wellbeing are more likely to approach exams with confidence and resilience.”
Working through past exam papers can be a powerful tool
Work through past papers well before the exam to learn question styles, identify knowledge gaps and build confidence under exam conditions. The Department of Basic Education recommends completing earlier papers in manageable sections.
Use active learning for improved comprehension and retention
Use active recall to test yourself instead of repeatedly rereading textbooks and notes. Answer questions from memory, use flashcards or explain concepts in your own words.
For deeper comprehension and retention, use SQ3R (Survey, Question, Read, Recite and Review.) Scan the chapter, turn headings into questions, read for the answers, recall the main ideas without notes, then review anything you missed. This strengthens understanding more effectively than passive highlighting or repeated reading.
3. Make use of the Pomodoro Technique to structure your study sessions
When a full syllabus feels intimidating, use the Pomodoro Technique. This technique is useful in that it gives you a more productive structure: concentrate for about 25 minutes, take a brief break and repeat the cycle.
Short, focused sessions can reduce distractions, concentration problems and mental fatigue.
4. Choose digital and printed resources carefully
Use digital resources, such as videos and quizzes, when they clarify difficult ideas and printed notes when they support focused reading. Choose the format or a combination of the two, that best helps you understand, remember and apply the material without assistance. The key is to be able to actively engage with the content you’re learning from.
5. Create a study-friendly environment and wellbeing routine
Where and how you study influences your ability to concentrate. Study in a quiet, well-lit space, limit phone interruptions and other disruptions. Identify the times of day (early morning or later in the day), and environments where you focus best, then create a routine that supports productive study sessions. Understanding your own patterns can help you make the most of your study time.
Prioritise quality sleep, nutritious meals, hydration and light physical activity. Sleep supports memory consolidation, concentration and emotional regulation during exam season.
How parents can provide support during exams
Parents and guardians play an important role during exam preparations. Creating a calm home environment, encouraging healthy routines and focusing on effort rather than perfection can help reduce unnecessary pressure.
Watch for excessive anxiety, irritability, withdrawal, poor sleep or difficulty concentrating. If your child seems overwhelmed, start an open conversation and offer patience and support; seek help from teachers, counsellors or mental health professionals where necessary. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group reports that anxiety levels among students climb sharply during exam season in both public and private schools.
Friederichs Van Harmelen adds “Parents and guardians play a critical role in protecting young people’s wellbeing during this period, what they need most is encouragement to try and learn without fear. Encourage open dialogue about mental health, reminding them that academic results alone are not the measure of their potential”.
During exam season, remember that progress matters more than perfection: small, consistent daily efforts can make a meaningful difference.
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