NSW Year 12 students are in study mode with the start of the HSC exams for 2025 just under three weeks away.

Thursday, October 16, is the first HSC exam, Monday, November 7, is the final day for written exams, and then it is a nervous wait until Thursday, December 18, for the HSC results to be released.

OneSchool Global (OSG) has shared its Top 10 tips that will help students make the most of their final weeks of study. 

OSG Australian Director of Education, Paul Maher, said if students tackle their preparation with a practical and strategic mindset, they can stay focused and avoid feeling overwhelmed. 

“The HSC can be a stressful time for students and their families, but there are strategies students can use to stay focused and do their best,” Mr Maher said. “We have shared these tips across our OSG campuses – but anyone can implement these methods!”

1. Practice Past Papers: “Completing past exams boosts memory, reveals gaps, and builds confidence under real conditions. It’s one of the most effective ways to prepare,” said Mr Maher.
2. Take Regular Breaks: “Think of breaks as pit stops – time to refuel your brain. Make sure you eat nutritious meals or snacks and drink enough water!”
3. Target Your Weak Areas: “Focus more time on subjects or topics you struggle with. This improves overall performance and gives the best return on effort.”
4. Use a Study Schedule: “Planned, spaced study reduces stress and improves long-term memory.”
5. Make Your Own Notes: “Creating notes helps you process and retain information better than buying pre-made ones. Active learning beats passive reading every time.”
6. Choose a Consistent Study Space: “A familiar environment helps your brain switch into focus mode. Occasionally changing locations can also boost recall through contextual cues.”
7. Use Retrieval Practice: “Instead of rereading, test yourself with flashcards, quizzes, or teaching others. This strengthens memory and understanding.”
8. Don’t Overstudy: “Studying 24/7 leads to fatigue and lower performance. Balance, sleep, and rest are essential for effective learning.”
9. Teach What You Learn: “Explaining concepts to someone else helps clarify your understanding.”
10. Create a Distraction-Free Environment: “A quiet, organised space improves focus and deep learning. Your environment signals your brain that it’s time to study.”

“I wish all students, whether they are from OneSchool Global or other schools across NSW, all the best in the HSC exams,” Mr Maher said. “And remember – you can always reach out to your teachers for guidance and support.”