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The temperature is officially in the single figures, the twinkling lights are going up and suddenly we are officially in the festive season! Sometimes it can feel like the biggest challenge of the holiday season isn’t finding the perfect gift but figuring out how to balance that much-needed holiday break with the looming pressure of January exams.
Although January exams are just around the corner, we’ve just finished a long and tough first term, so whilst it’s easy to feel the pressure to work, work, work; plan now to make sure you can take a much-needed break too. This way, you can properly switch off and enjoy your family and festive time without the constant guilt of what you should be doing.
Here's my personal secret weapon: making all my Quizlets now so I'm only reviewing in the holidays! The hard work of condensing lectures and making the flashcards is the biggest chunk of effort. If I get that done before the break, then I only need to allocate time to review content. It keeps the information fresh without demanding half your Christmas Day.
My second top tip is to stick to the 'little and often' mantra. Consistency is key here; don't aim for burnout-inducing 6-hour sessions; aim for focused, high-quality bursts.
Finally, and most importantly, don't burn yourself out. You have worked so hard all term, and you need this proper rest and cheer to enter January refreshed and ready to go. You’ll be much more effective in the exam hall if you've had quality time off. Schedule in that Sunday Roast with the family, the catch-up with friends, or a wander through Exeter's Christmas Market (if you're still around!).
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed during the festive season when you’re juggling family, fun, and looming academic deadlines. Make time for study but make massive amounts of time for enjoyment too. I hope these simple strategies help you enjoy the magic of this time of year, completely guilt-free!
Looking for some revision tips? Check out our list of apps and websites.