Are You Ready for the ATAR? Top Study Skills Tips for High School Students
Are you in your final year of high school and feeling the pressure of the ATAR? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many high school students feel anxious and overwhelmed when approaching their final assessment.
To help you be prepared and make the most of your study time, we’ve put together some tips and strategies to help you manage your stress and stay focused on your studies.
First and foremost, it’s important to realise that feeling anxious about the ATAR is ok. Feeling a bit overwhelmed is normal, and it’s important to acknowledge these feelings and try to manage them healthily. It’s also important to remember that the ATAR isn’t the only measure of your success. You have worked hard and achieved many other things, so don’t let one score define you.
Now, onto the practical tips! Here are some of our top study skills tips for high school students preparing for their final year ATAR assessment:
1. Prioritise your study time – One of the most important things you can do is ensure you’re making the most of your time. Procrastinating and putting off studying can be tempting, but this won’t help you in the long run. Make a plan and stick to it. Have a set study routine, and make sure you’re setting realistic goals for yourself.
2. Get organised – Before you start studying, it’s important to get organised. Make sure you have all the materials you need and a plan for how you will structure your study time. This will help you stay focused and ensure you’re making the most of your study time.
3. Take regular breaks – Taking regular breaks is essential when studying. This will help you to stay focused and will give you a chance to relax and recharge. Regular breaks will also help reduce stress levels and make studying more enjoyable.
4. Get enough sleep – Sleep is essential for studying effectively. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and taking care of yourself. This will help you stay focused and ensure you’re making the most of your study time.
5. Get help if you need it – Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Plenty of resources are available to help you with your studying, such as tutors, study groups and online resources. Use these resources, and don’t be afraid to reach out if you need extra help.
6. Manage stress levels – Stress can be a major factor when studying for the ATAR. It’s important to manage your stress levels to stay focused and to make sure you’re making the most of your study time.
Some techniques to manage stress include mindfulness, yoga, exercise and relaxation. We hope these tips have been helpful and that you feel more prepared to tackle your ATAR.
Remember, you’ve worked hard and you can do this!
Author: Stephanie Mace, Brodi Killen and Samantha Pearce. Educational and Developmental Psychologist - With You Allied Health Director.