Here are a few tips to help you manage your time, set goals, and stay on an organized path to success.

SET GOALS. Set realistic goals at the beginning of the school year, and break those large goals into mini-goals. For example you may set your goal to achieve 3 A's in Advanced Level examination, then you can set mini goals as to study section A in this week etc. Write these goals and keep them in a highly visible place where you can see them every day. Writing down your goals makes them more concrete, and motivates you to keep working towards them.

BREAK UP YOUR STUDY TIME. Determine how many study hours you need, and schedule study time. For example, if you need six hours of time to study for a test, you may break that time up into six sessions, of one hour each. Choose the six days, and make a 'study time' notation in your calendar. You can use our weekly time table template to allocate time for each hour in the week.

SCHEDULE CONSISTENT STUDY TIMES. Set aside time every day for study, and make it consistent. For example, set your study time for each afternoon from 8:00pm to 11:00pm. Whatever you do, avoid last minute studying and cramming.

MAKE TO DO LISTS. Always spend a minimum of 5 minutes per day, usually early in the morning, preparing your To Do list for the day. In doing so, you will know exactly what tasks you have to accomplish in the day.

USE AN EFFECTIVE STUDY AREA. Designate a quiet, well-lit area for studying. Don't study in front of the television, or in an area of your home where you're bound to be distracted. If you can't find a quiet spot at home, go to the library. In addition, you should study while sitting at a table or desk. Avoid studying in a very comfortable chair or a bed, which may cause you to feel drowsy.

GET GOOD NIGHT SLEEP. Get a good night's rest. This will ensure you are alert and ready to learn the following day.

EAT AN HEALTHY MEALS. Eat three healthy meals each day, along with fruitS. Remember to have a good breakfast, before going to school. Don't overload on sweets, which cause many people to feel tired.

AVOID OVERLOAD. While you may sign up for extra school activities, such as cricket or cadeting, don't take on too much. First determine how much study time you need. Then, choose very few activities that you enjoy.

DON'T GIVE UP. If you find yourself getting off track, simply take a deep breath and get back on track. It is better to get slightly off the path, rather than giving up.

REWARD YOURSELF. Designate small rewards for each goal you set, such as a meeting a friend, or watching a TV programme. As you achieve each of your goals, reap your rewards. This will keep you motivated throughout the year.