This blog was written by Semester 2 Senior Storyteller, Niharika.
You know that point in semester when assignments are wrapping up, exams are just around the corner and the notes you wrote in Week 2 feel like a distant memory? Yep, we’re here. Exam season!
It’s a busy time, and I don’t have a magic study routine. But over time, I’ve found a few things that help me feel more in control, from planning what I need to do to knowing when it’s time to close the laptop and head outside. The good news is that La Trobe has plenty of support to help us through this final stretch.
1. Get everything out of your head
My first step is simple: write it all down. Exam dates, assignment deadlines, what I need to revise and, most importantly, when I’m going to do it.
Before anything else, check your exam timetable. Make sure you know the date, time, location and conditions for each exam. It sounds obvious, but during the end-of-semester rush, it’s a great way to set yourself up with confidence.
Then, break the big tasks into smaller steps. La Trobe’s Assessment Planner is a handy tool for this. Just enter your assessments and due dates, and it builds a preliminary schedule with suggested tasks and starting points. Having everything mapped out in one place makes it so much easier to focus on one thing at a time.
2. Find what works for you
Try to attend your final classes. Think of them as a mini crash course before the finish line. Lecturers and tutors often revisit key concepts, clarify final assessments and share what to expect in exams. It’s also a great chance to ask those last questions while you can.
When it comes to revision, I’ve learnt that rereading notes is only one option. If your subject has a practice exam on the LMS, make the most of it. I sometimes set a timer and complete it under exam conditions to see where I’m at. Looking back through past assessments and feedback can also highlight the areas worth focusing on. And if studying solo starts to feel repetitive, try rapid-fire questions or a Kahoot-style quiz with friends. Revision can be social and even fun.
Still exploring your style? The Spotlights on Success workshops cover everything from motivation and time management to assessment writing and exam preparation. The Preparing for Exams sessions with Peer Learning Advisors can also help you organise your notes, plan your revision and feel ready for the actual day.
3. Reach out early
Something I’m still learning is to ask for help early. If something isn’t clicking, start with your lecturer or tutor, especially while you still have those final classes.
The La Trobe Library is another great option. You can access Peer Learning Advisors, who are experienced students who can help you understand assessments and find your feet at uni. You can chat with a Librarian or book a one-to-one appointment with an Academic Skills Advisor for support with exam preparation, academic writing, study habits and more. Sometimes a single conversation is all it takes to get you back on track.
4. Make time for the sun
This one is easy to overlook: you are still a person outside your assessments.
Eat well. Sleep. Drink water. Take breaks. Call someone. Go for a walk. And get some sun every now and then.
I know it can feel like you should keep going when there’s still so much to do, but a rested mind is a more focused one. Three well-rested hours of study will usually beat three tired ones. Give yourself permission to step away, and your laptop will be right there waiting when you’re back and recharged. Looking after yourself isn’t taking time away from study. It’s part of doing it well.
The final stretch
Exam season might not be everyone’s favourite part of university, and that’s completely okay. You don’t need a perfect colour-coded timetable, twelve-hour study sessions a day or a routine that looks picture-perfect to get through it.
Make a plan. Show up to those final classes. Find what works for you. Reach out when you need support. And give yourself permission to take a break.
You’ve already made it through most of the semester, and now it’s just the final stretch.
One assessment, one exam and one study session at a time. You’ve got this!