What to Do When You Have One Week Left Before Exams
So, you’ve got one week left before your exams—and the panic is setting in. First off, take a deep breath. Whether you’ve been revising all term or you’re just starting now, one week is still enough time to make a big impact. The trick is to be focused, strategic and consistent. Here’s your ultimate 7-day plan to help you stay calm and crush those exams.
Day 1: Make Your Game Plan
Before you even pick up your notes, get organised:
- List all subjects and topics you need to cover.
- Break it down: Allocate time slots for each subject over the next 6 days.
- Factor in breaks, meals and sleep—your brain needs rest to absorb info!
Pro Tip: Use the 50/10 rule—study for 50 minutes, rest for 10. It keeps your energy up and your brain sharp.
Day 2–5: Deep Dive Study Mode
Focus on two to three subjects per day, alternating between tough and manageable ones.
Use smart techniques:
- Active Recall: Test yourself on definitions, formulas and key concepts.
- Spaced Repetition: Revisit the same material daily in short bursts.
- Practice Questions: Get used to exam formats and time pressure.
Mix up your methods: flashcards, summarising aloud or even teaching a friend or your pet—it all helps your brain retain more.
Day 6: Mock Exam & Review
Create a mock exam environment:
- Pick 1 or 2 past papers.
- Set a timer.
- No notes, no phone—just like the real deal.
Afterwards, mark your answers and identify gaps. Spend the rest of the day reviewing those tricky topics.
Day 7: Chill + Light Review
It’s the final countdown—but don’t go full robot-mode. Spend your time:
- Stretching or taking a walk to stay calm
- Skimming summaries or flashcards
- Sleeping early to recharge for exam day
Avoid learning anything brand new—focus on what you already know and keep stress low.
Bonus Tips for the Week
- Eat well and stay hydrated—your brain is working overtime.
- Turn off distractions (hello, airplane mode).
- Don’t compare your prep to others—your plan is about you.
One week can make a huge difference if you use it wisely. Focus on your goals, trust your preparation, and remember: It’s not about perfection, it’s about progress. Show up, do your best, and walk out with your head held high. You’ve got this!
FAQ
Is one week enough to study for an exam?
It’s enough to make a real difference if you focus on the topics worth the most marks and practise with past papers. It isn’t enough to learn a whole year’s work from scratch – so prioritise.
Should I study the night before an exam?
Only a light review of summaries or flashcards, then an early night. Sleep is when your brain locks in what you’ve learnt.
What should I study first?
The topics that carry the most marks and that you find hardest – check the mark allocation in a past paper.
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