• Plan your time with a study timetable
• Practice actively, not just passively rereading notes - for example, highlight key points or jot down quick notes to stay engaged.
• Make your study zone a no-phone zone
• Use past papers and timed sessions to build real exam skills
• Celebrate small wins or finishing a big topic with a treat or break
• Split study sessions into 30-minute blocks and recharge with micro breaks
• Use flashcards to help you memorise (Spirax Notebooks + Study App makes this simple)
• Look after your wellbeing - eat well, stay hydrated, sleep, and ask for support if you need it

When selecting a workbook, look for one aligned with the current NCEA standards or Achievement Objectives. For subjects like Maths and Science, choose books with worked examples and practice questions. For English, consider workbooks with essay structures and sample answers with explanations.

OfficeMax offers a range of curriculum-aligned options for each subject level – ask your teacher for recommendations or browse our selection to find the best fit for your subjects.

Having the right stationery isn't about having fancy gear - it's about removing small frustrations so you can stay focused.

• Pens, highlighters, pencils, sharpener and eraser
• A scientific or graphic calculator (subject dependent)
• Notebooks and workbooks for practice and revision
• A lapboard (mini whiteboard) to map out concepts visually
• Post-it notes or adhesive flags
• Basic maths equipment such as ruler, protractor, geometry set, etc.

A well-prepared study space can boost focus, reduce stress, and improve retention. Setting up your study zone with these key items will help you minimise distractions and maximise focus.

• Dedicated study desk
• Study chair
• Wall planner or calendar to map revision schedule
• Laptop/computer or Chromebook
• Noise-cancelling headphones to minimise distraction