Hi there
Thanks for finding the time to write this letter to me.
Exam time is often a difficult and overwhelming period for young people and I can see you are trying your best to deal with this. I’m pleased that you wrote to me for advice.
It sounds like you might be distracting yourself because you are confused about where to begin with your revision. I say this, because it seems that you know you are disciplined, but maybe struggle to get going. When this happens, I can see how it really upsets you and you then worry about your performance.
One idea might be to write a list of your exams, what you need to study for them and then prioritise the tasks. It might help to talk to your teacher or a school mentor about whether there are sections of work which are particularly important to concentrate on. Some young people find it helps to study by making notes, or answering previous exam questions. Sometimes it can take a little while to find the best way for you but don't forget that ever little bit helps.
If you find it difficult to concentrate, I'm wondering how it would be to spend no more that 45 minutes studying at the start and then keep increasing this by 5 minutes, until you reach 60 minutes. It is also important to make sure that you have a space to study which is quiet and free from distractions like the tv, music or other noise.
I know that revision is important to you but it is also important that you have some time for yourself to do the things that you enjoy and for you to relax. This might help you to refresh and then return to studying.
Please remember that you can only do your best and that we are all have different skills and qualities and achieve different levels. Exam success is not the only way to achieve success.
You might find it useful to have a look at the Beat exam stress information in Explore. You can also visit BBC Learning for lots of information about studying.
If you would like to talk some more about this, you can talk to a ChildLine counsellor by calling for free on 0800 1111, or having a 1-2-1 chat online.
I do hope this helps.
Take care,
Sam