Leaving Cert TimetableLeaving Cert Timetable

Leaving Certificate Exam Tips

Expert strategies and techniques for LC exam success - from preparation to exam day

Proven StrategiesTeacher ApprovedStudent Tested

Exam Preparation Timeline

6 Months Before Exams
January - February
Foundation Building
Complete syllabus review for all subjects
Organize study materials and notes
Create a realistic study timetable
Start practicing past paper questions
Identify weak areas requiring extra attention
3 Months Before Exams
March - April
Intensive Preparation
Increase past paper practice frequency
Form study groups with classmates
Seek help from teachers for difficult topics
Begin timed practice sessions
Review and update study notes regularly
1 Month Before Exams
May
Final Preparation
Focus on revision rather than new material
Complete full past papers under exam conditions
Prepare exam day materials and checklist
Maintain healthy sleep and exercise routines
Practice stress management techniques
1 Week Before Exams
Final Week
Peak Preparation
Light review of key concepts only
Ensure all exam materials are prepared
Get adequate sleep (8+ hours nightly)
Avoid cramming new information
Stay positive and trust your preparation

Exam Day Strategies

Before the Exam

Night Before

  • Prepare all materials (pens, calculator, ID, etc.)
  • Get a good night's sleep (8+ hours)
  • Avoid heavy studying - light review only
  • Eat a healthy dinner and stay hydrated
  • Set multiple alarms for the morning

Morning Of

  • Eat a nutritious breakfast with protein
  • Arrive at exam center 30 minutes early
  • Review your ID and exam requirements
  • Use bathroom facilities before entering
  • Practice deep breathing to stay calm
During the Exam

First 10 Minutes

  • Read all instructions carefully
  • Scan through the entire paper
  • Plan your time allocation for each section
  • Choose your questions if options exist
  • Start with questions you're most confident about

Throughout the Exam

  • Keep track of time regularly
  • Show all working in calculations
  • Answer questions in logical order
  • Leave space to return to difficult questions
  • Stay hydrated and take brief mental breaks
Managing Pressure

Stress Management

  • Practice deep breathing techniques
  • Use positive self-talk and affirmations
  • Focus on one question at a time
  • Don't panic if you can't answer something
  • Remember that preparation pays off

If You're Struggling

  • Move on to easier questions first
  • Come back to difficult ones later
  • Write down what you do know
  • Look for partial credit opportunities
  • Stay calm and trust your knowledge

Effective Study Techniques

Active Recall

Test yourself without looking at notes

  • Close your book and write what you remember
  • Use flashcards for key concepts
  • Explain topics to someone else
  • Create practice questions for yourself
Spaced Repetition

Review material at increasing intervals

  • Review new material after 1 day
  • Review again after 3 days
  • Review after 1 week
  • Final review after 2 weeks
Interleaving

Mix different topics in study sessions

  • Alternate between different subjects
  • Mix problem types within subjects
  • Combine theory with practical application
  • Switch between reading and practice
Elaborative Learning

Connect new information to existing knowledge

  • Ask 'why' and 'how' questions
  • Create analogies and examples
  • Connect topics across subjects
  • Relate material to personal experiences

Subject-Specific Exam Tips

English
  • Plan essays before writing - create clear outlines
  • Use specific textual evidence in literature responses
  • Practice time management for different sections
  • Develop strong thesis statements
  • Read questions carefully for key instruction words
Mathematics
  • Show all working steps clearly
  • Check answers when possible
  • Use diagrams and graphs effectively
  • Manage time across all questions
  • Practice mental math for quick calculations
Sciences
  • Learn and use proper scientific terminology
  • Practice drawing and labeling diagrams
  • Understand experimental procedures thoroughly
  • Connect theory to practical applications
  • Review formula sheets and constants
Languages
  • Practice listening comprehension regularly
  • Build vocabulary for different topics
  • Use varied sentence structures in writing
  • Understand cultural contexts
  • Practice speaking aloud for oral exams

Maintaining Wellbeing During Exams

Physical Health
  • Maintain regular exercise routine
  • Eat balanced, nutritious meals
  • Get 7-9 hours of sleep nightly
  • Stay hydrated throughout the day
  • Take regular breaks from studying
Mental Health
  • Practice mindfulness and meditation
  • Talk to friends and family about stress
  • Maintain hobbies and social activities
  • Seek help if feeling overwhelmed
  • Use positive self-talk and affirmations
Study Environment
  • Create a dedicated, organized study space
  • Minimize distractions (phone, social media)
  • Ensure good lighting and ventilation
  • Keep study materials organized
  • Use background music if it helps focus
Common Exam Mistakes to Avoid

Before Exams:

  • ✗Cramming the night before
  • ✗Neglecting physical health
  • ✗Not practicing past papers
  • ✗Poor time management planning

During Exams:

  • ✗Not reading instructions carefully
  • ✗Spending too much time on one question
  • ✗Panicking when facing difficulty
  • ✗Not showing working in calculations
Developing a Success Mindset

Growth Mindset:

  • View challenges as opportunities to learn
  • Embrace mistakes as part of learning
  • Focus on effort and improvement
  • Seek feedback and act on it

Positive Affirmations:

  • "I am prepared and capable"
  • "I can handle challenging questions"
  • "My preparation will pay off"
  • "I trust my knowledge and abilities"
Related Resources
Need Additional Support?

Remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Academic Support:

  • • Your subject teachers
  • • School guidance counselor
  • • Study groups with classmates
  • • Online learning platforms

Wellbeing Support:

  • • SpunOut.ie - Youth mental health
  • • Jigsaw.ie - Mental health support
  • • Your GP or local health services
  • • Family and friends

Disclaimer: These exam tips are compiled from educational best practices and teacher recommendations. Individual results may vary, and students should also consult with their teachers and the State Examinations Commission for official guidance.

These tips are educational suggestions and do not replace professional academic or health advice.