Auntie Betty: How can I make time to study?

Dear Auntie Betty, I am in my final year in junior high school. Although the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) is just around the corner, I hardly pay attention to my notes and textbooks.

I am also aware that my performance in the BECE will determine where I will be after school.

I do not seem to know how to sit down and study. I make time for my hobbies than my books. I can spend hours and days reading a fascinating storybook without getting bored. This is how it has been since my primary school days and I am afraid it is now my habit.

Please, what should I do?

Naana,

Oda.

Dear Naana, You only have to make a conscious effort to study and pass your BECE with flying colours. With determination and hard work, you can make it. Once you make up your mind that you will study hard, it is possible and you can do it.

Making time for your hobbies, especially reading storybooks is not a bad thing. It is good to read because reading opens up your mind. But you have to strike a balance - make time for your school work as well. So in the meantime, go a bit slow on the storybooks and make more time for school work since you will be writing your exam soon. There will be more time to read storybooks after the exam.

I suggest you draw a timetable for studying and follow it religiously. While studying, make sure you avoid all the things that distract you. Also, your aim while studying should be to understand what you have been taught so that you can explain it in your own words and not ‘chew and pour’.

Another thing you could do is to check with your mates if you could form a study group. Studying in a group is also a great way to learn, revise and develop interpersonal skills. You could also ask your parents if they are in a position to get you a teacher for extra tuition at home or at a convenient place.

From now on, your priority should be studying hard to do well in the BECE and you have to do all you can to make that happen. It is important for a better future.

All the best.