10 Things Grade 12 Candidates Should Know Before Exams

10 Things Grade 12 Candidates Should Know Before Exams

As we all know the grade 12 exams are around the corner, usually they start writing their exams between 1st November – 20th December, but this year 2026 the exam commences on the 2nd of November which will fall on Monday.

Before sitting for an exam here are 10 things you need to know.

1. Master Your Timetable

By mastering your timetable, we mean every candidate needs to know the correct dates and time when he/she is supposed to start writing their exam and by doing so the candidate can have proper management on ow they will be studying.

2. Arriving At Examination Center Early

Getting at the examination center on time will save you the stress of panicking in the exam room. Give yourself enough time to travel, settle down and prep.

3. Carry the Necessary Examination Materials

Prepare everything you need before leaving home and depending on the subject, you may need the following,

• Blue or black pens.
• Pencils and erasers.
• A ruler.
• Mathematical instruments.
• An approved calculator where permitted.

4. Say A Prayer

in as much as it looks simple, a prayer goes a long way and just simple talking to your God about how you want him to guide you during the entire exam phase is very important.

5. Avoid Unnecessary Movements During The Night

Unnecessary movements during the night when the exam window is up can be a very risky move a candidate can take, the best one can do is stay home and revise the study materials.

6. Thou Shall Never Involve Yourself In Malpractice

No matter the situation, do not involve yourself in exam malpractice, we believe you studied and you are ready enough for the exams before the actual day of sitting. Well, a lot of candidates have fallen into the ditch of malpractice consequences and they got their chance of writing exams dismissed.

7. Revise Using Past Examination Papers

Past papers are among the most useful resources for examination preparation.

They help candidates familiarise themselves with examination formats, question styles and commonly tested topics.

Practising with previous ECZ papers can also help identify areas that need more attention.

Get the Past Papers here – (Download Past Papers)

8. Get Enough Rest Before Examination Days

Staying awake throughout the night trying to cover every topic may leave you exhausted during the examination. Get enough sleep, eat properly and give yourself time to relax.

9. Avoid Last Minute Studying

With examinations approaching, it is understandable to feel like there is still too much to study. However, trying to cover the entire syllabus overnight can leave you confused and exhausted.

Focus on revising important topics, reviewing areas you find difficult and practising questions. Use the remaining time wisely rather than putting yourself under unnecessary pressure.

10. Don’t Put Too Much Pressure on Yourself

Grade 12 examinations are important, but that doesn’t mean you should spend every moment worrying about them. Take short breaks, get enough sleep and give yourself time to relax.