Pack your ‘Passport’ to Success!

With Spring now upon us, all thoughts turn to longer days and summer vacations. But STOP! This is the time to be dusting down your revision books, clearing away those study cobwebs, and packing your ‘passport’ to success.

For many studious types, revision schedules would have kicked in shortly after Christmas (or for those with an extreme aptitude, even earlier!), allowing for continual preparation as they head towards the looming exams. But, having been given the same opportunity to excel academically through self motivation and structured revision, why do so many success-hungry students still rely on last-minute cramming?

One simple reason; being regarded as an ‘academic’ isn’t seen as the ‘in’ thing. And to add to this, many adjectives are used to describe such dedication; including uncool, ‘pointy heady’ or just boring. But beyond these common misconceptions, those willing to invest in their own futures will have the last laugh later in life. While few wish to be labelled a ‘workaholic’, or known as someone who spends exuberant relaxation time with their English Anthology – if the result helps shape a more successful and rewarding future, a period of focussed hard work can’t be too much to ask, surely?

For many, however, the will and desire to succeed lies dormant; never really awakening. With the result, that, the aptitude and application for self learning and revision remains deeply buried due to the perceived opinions of their like-minded friends. But for those able to overcome this peer pressure, the grades they achieve will remain with them for life – providing a solid foundation for University and beyond. In contrast, those who don’t achieve their potential will undoubtedly choose not to remember the opportunity they had, or simply just ‘shrug it off’.

So, how is it best to avoid last-minute cramming and to improve your chances of achieving worthy examination results? First, get your head around what you need to do – concentrating on those subjects or areas you’re less confident with. Secondly, structure your time and prepare a realistic revision timetable – there’s no point scheduling 12 hours of daily revision if you can only manage 2 or 3, otherwise you’ll fail before you start. Thirdly, stick to it! Of course you’ll find yourself wanting to do other things – you wouldn’t be normal if not. But however strong the temptation, resist in equal measure and focus on the outcomes – how do you want to feel when you open your results - elated or dejected?

Diligent students, who incorporate revision and exam preparation into their weekly routines, will unquestionably be better off when the exam season begins. Whilst we all rely on a little good luck as well, hard work is really the only sure way (tried and tested) of achieving the grades you deserve.

So, now back to the Spring cleaning. With your dusters put aside, revision books gleaming and your ‘passport’ to the ready – only you can choose your journey and eventual destination!

Good luck!