How to Get the Most Out of Your Study Break

You’ve made it through the trials—congrats! But let’s be honest, the real challenge lies ahead. With six weeks until your final exams, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. How will you remember everything? How do you stay motivated when your brain’s already tired?

Good news: there’s still plenty of time to turn things around. If you use this break strategically, it can make all the difference to your results. Whether you’re aiming for a strong ATAR or just want to finish the year with confidence, these study break tips will help you work smarter, not just harder.

Here’s your step-by-step plan to stay on track, boost retention, and finish strong.

1. Set a Clear Goal

Before diving into study mode, get clear on what you’re working toward. Are you aiming for a particular ATAR? Do you want to get into a specific course or university? Having a strong ‘why’ can help you stay focused when motivation dips.

Make your goal SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, “Revise biology and complete 3 past papers by the end of Week 2.”

Pro tip: Share your goals with a friend or family member who can help keep you accountable.

2. Prioritise What Matters

You can’t master every topic in one go—so be strategic. Go through your trial results or past assessments. What subjects or topics did you struggle with most? Start there.

It’s tempting to keep revising your favourite subjects, but the most growth happens when you focus on your weak spots. Tackle them early in the day when your mind is freshest.

3. Get Organised and Take Care of Yourself

✔ Prep Your Study Materials

Are your notes neat and syllabus-aligned? Have you got access to practice exams and marking guides? Do a resources audit now so you can hit the ground running.

✔ Plan Your Time

Use a weekly planner or digital calendar to map out your study blocks, breaks, and rest days. Build in flexibility so you’re not overwhelmed by a rigid schedule.

✔ Fuel Your Brain

Focus, memory, and energy depend on how you fuel your body. Stick with slow-release carbs (like oats and fruit), lean proteins (eggs, nuts), and plenty of water. Aim for eight hours of sleep—every night. Rest isn’t a luxury, it’s part of your study strategy.

4. Limit Distractions

It sounds obvious, but staying focused is harder than ever. Every ping from your phone pulls your attention—and science says it takes about 7 minutes to refocus after each interruption.

Try these focus hacks:

• Use “Do Not Disturb” or put your phone in another room.
• Use apps like Forest or Cold Turkey to block distractions.
• Set timers (try the Pomodoro method: 25 mins study, 5 mins break).

If your brain hits a wall, switch tasks or take a walk. Movement can re-energise you and help with problem-solving.

5. Balance Study with Rest

You don’t have to lock yourself in your room 24/7 to succeed. In fact, balance is key. Taking regular breaks helps your brain process information and stay motivated.

Build in mini-rewards after study sessions—whether that’s a walk, a playlist dance break, or catching up with friends. Give yourself wind-down time in the evening and avoid screens an hour before bed (they disrupt your sleep cycle).

6. Ask for Help, Share What You Know

Feedback is essential. Don’t just do practice papers—get them marked! Ask your teachers or tutors for input. Most will be happy to help if they see you putting in effort.

Teaching others is also one of the best ways to reinforce your learning. Start a study group, explain tricky concepts to friends, or try creating flashcards and quizzes together. If your whole class lifts, it benefits everyone.

Quick Recap: Your 6-Week Study Sprint

1. Set a goal: Know what you’re aiming for and write it down.
2. Prioritise smartly: Focus on weak areas first.
3. Get organised: Prep your notes, plan your week, fuel and rest your body.
4. Eliminate distractions: Phone off. Mind on.
5. Rest and recharge: Balance focused effort with real recovery.
6. Reach out: Ask for support, give support—you’ll learn faster.

You’ve Got This

Six weeks is enough time to build momentum, plug knowledge gaps, and finish the term feeling proud of what you’ve achieved. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. Check out our Study hacks to help you smash your exams. 

Stay consistent, take care of yourself, and keep your end goal in sight. Your future self will thank you.