Everyone knows the best way to ace exams is to carefully plan throughout the year, transferring each lesson or lecture onto cue cards and going over the day's work each evening.
But for those of you who prefer to kick back and relax after a day's learning, leaving your revision until the last minute (and don't worry, you're in the majority), here are some top tips on how to knuckle down and make your parents proud.
1) The Early Bird Catches The WormYes, you may sigh at this over-used phrase your parents regularly fire at you but it really does work. Getting up early means you make the most of the day and, if you feel you've done enough, you can take the evening off.
2) Set Yourself Realistic TargetsMake sure to set your own targets which suit your capabilities - not your friend's. There's no point in trying to do 10 hours of revision a day if you know you won't, you'll only feel disappointed.
3) ExerciseGoing for a jog - or any other exercise - is a great way to switch off and renew your energy levels. Your brain may be tired but your body probably won't be.
4) Take Regular BreaksExperts recommend every half an hour or so. Even if it's just getting up to make a cuppa, it gives you an opportunity to re-focus.
5) Work Hard Play HardOk, maybe don't play too hard, but planning to see friends or family on your breaks means you have something to look forward to and means you can reward yourself for all that hard work.
6) Steer Clear Of CaffeineIf you simply can't survive without coffee, have a couple of cups in the morning and when you do get that low, refuel with high-energy foods such as nuts.
7) Eat WellEat healthy, avoid fast foods; fast-food will only make you feel sluggish.
Know Your Learning TechniquesDon't feel you have to join the revision group just because everyone else is. Some people just work better alone. And, if you're feeling nervous about the exam, hanging out with the class swot probably won't make you feel much better.
9) Keep HydratedWe all know our brains love water. Keep a bottle of water by your desk and make sure you drink it regularly.
10) Ban Facebook"But why?" we hear you gasp in horror. How many times have you refreshed your homepage only to realize there's no new updates as you've been glued to Facebook for the past four hours. It's distracting and it serves no purpose.
