Matric is a big year, but you don’t have to go it alone. Whether you’re aiming for top marks or just trying to stay sane through the pressure, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are some free and practical resources to help you thrive, not just survive:
Study Smarter, Not Harder
Explore free study guides and resources tailored to South African matric subjects. Try platforms like:
Time Management Hacks
Need structure but hate complicated schedules? Try creating a simple weekly planner using apps like:
- Google Calendar (sync with study sessions)
- Notion or Trello (for visual task management)
- Or good old paper planners – whatever works for your brain!
Mind Matters
Matric stress is real. Try mindfulness tools to reset your brain between study sessions.
- Apps like Headspace
- Short outdoor walks or digital detoxes (yes, really)
- Breathing exercises like square breathing: Breathe in for 7 counts, hold for 7 counts, out for 7 counts, hold for 7 counts and repeat 7 times. Visualise moving around a square as you breathe.
Career Curiosity Tools
Not sure what to do after school? You’re not alone. Try these:
- A career quiz like GoStudy
- Use ChatGPT to explore different job ideas or ask for help designing a personalised study guide.
Try asking: “Help me create a weekly study schedule for Life Sciences, English and History.”
Or “What careers could suit someone who loves working with animals and being outdoors?”
- Go down a YouTube rabbit hole: search “Day in the life of a [career]” (e.g. conservation ecologist, marine biologist, UX designer, etc.)
Bonus Tip: Control the Controllables
It’s easy to feel behind when friends are getting responses from universities and you’re still waiting. But their timeline is not your timeline.
Here’s a quick exercise:
- List 3 things you can control this week (e.g. revising one topic, finishing one application, taking care of your health).
- List 3 things that are out of your control (e.g. when you’ll get a response, what others are doing).
- Focus on your list of controllables. That’s where your power is. Forget about the things you can’t control.
You’ve got this! And if you’re interested in building a meaningful career (and learning what that could look like), we’re here to help. Explore the AEL programme here.
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