Why some students underperform in the exam room

Feb 17, 2021

Why do some students underperform in the exam room despite putting in hours and hours of hard work?Β Β 

This is something we see when students arrive at HSC CoWorks. There is a lot of frustration and occasionally feelings of being demoralised because a student has put in hours and hours of what we would call well intentioned work but at the same time as being well intentioned its ineffective. When we are training for the exam room we need to give our brain the very best opportunity to be able to perform under those exam conditions and the only way to do that is to continually simulate those exam conditions.

 

Why should students be aiming to know their foundation of content for each subject as well as any other student from their school?Β 

In order to be prepared for any exam and any question we must have high levels of certainty around the foundational content. I guarantee in any and every school across NSW the students that are coming 1st, 2nd or 3rd in their respective subjects can recall every aspect of the foundational content without even thinking about it. Foundational content refers to the syllabus and other associated ideas e.g. definitions, formulas etc. Whatever it might be, those students know that material because they are training on a daily basis. The objective for every student is to know their foundational content better than anyone else which in turn sets up a student to be able to move into more difficult training tasks that simulate the exam room and therefore perform to their full potential.Β Β 

 

Watch the video for a more in depth explanation on why students underperform in the exam room.

 

Why is daily training the brain so important in achieving a great HSC result?

Our brain craves certainty. Unless we are continually training and operating with repetition of our foundationalΒ content the connections and pathways in our brain become weaker over time. Small training exercises every single day allow our brain to hardwire that content which is setting us up to be able to perform under exam conditions.Β Β 

That really is the key.Β 

 

What is an example of a daily training exercise?Β 

If you know your English quotes do you feel more confident in writing a practice essay?Β 

Every single student we have asked has said yes I would feel more confident as I would feel more certain around the foundational material in that essay.Β 

In a typical HSC essay there might be 12-15 quotes that a student uses as part of responding to a question. With those 12 -15 quotes it would be our recommendation to have a master list of those quotes and then from memory write out those quotes every single day. The first time writing it out might be a little bit clunky but with repetition you will gain more certainty and be able to recall these quotes with ease.Β Β 

 

 

HSC CoWorks provides HSC support for students across our Mosman, Bondi Junction, Chatswood, and Dee Why locations. We are also able to provide support to students across NSW virtually!Β 

OurΒ Navigating the HSC series provides parents and students with the knowledge they need to navigate their way through the HSC.Β 

“Let’s Talk About the HSC”

The ultimate podcast for students and parents navigating the journey of the HSC. Presented by HSC CoWorks, each episode dives into the challenges and triumphs of the HSC experience, offering expert advice, study tips, and insights into achieving academic success.

Whether you’re preparing for exams, managing stress, or looking for ways to stay motivated, this podcast is your go-to guide for all things HSC. Join us as we chat with educators, students, and professionals to help you thrive during this important academic milestone!

Instagram

JOIN OUR APRIL HOLIDAY BOOTCAMP πŸ₯ΎπŸ’ͺ🏻 & make some serious progress with your HSC prep these holidays! 
April 14-17 10am-2pm |  Final places remaining in Bondi & Chatswood! Link in bio πŸ‘†πŸΌπŸ€©
Available for Year 11 & 12 |  Available for members & non-members
WE ARE HIRING!
Are you a 2024 HSC graduate who wants to make a real impact whilst getting great experience and learning skills to support you land a grad role?
HSC CoWorks Mosman & Balgowlah are on the lookout for inspiring and enthusiastic Coaches to join our team!
If you:
βœ… Crushed the HSC in 2024
βœ… Love helping others succeed
βœ… Bring good vibes, energy, and communication skills
βœ… Want to build your resume and leadership skills
Then we’d love to hear from you!
πŸ“ Positions available at both Mosman and Balgowlah campuses
πŸ“† Must be available during July 2025
Tag a friend who should apply or follow the link in our bio to learn more. 
#CoachingJob #HSCmentor #MosmanJobs #BalgowlahJobs #HSCsuccess
πŸ’₯UNLOCK YOUR HSC SUPEROWERS πŸ’₯
When we see others achieving the success we want, it’s easy to assume they have something special.  But the truth is, they don’t have any superpowers that you don’t also possess! 
πŸš€ Link in bio to learn how to disover your HSC potential!πŸš€
πŸš€ April Bootcamp: Set Yourself Up for Success! πŸš€
The April Holidays are a prime time for Year 12 students to get ahead before the busiest term of the year! While a short break is important, ensuring you’re fully prepared for Term 2 is essential.
At our April Mid-HSC Bootcamp, you will:
βœ… Build essays for upcoming texts & modules
🎯 Practice exam-style responses to sharpen your skills
πŸ’‘ Ensure you’re 100% ready to tackle Term 2 with confidence
πŸ“’ Year 11s, this is your chance too! With 33% of the year done, now is the time to consolidate your learning, strengthen your foundation, and get ahead.
Join us for a structured, high-impact session to stay on track, boost confidence, and master your subjects!
πŸ”— Link in Bio