- Shift your mindset: Term 1 is for building systems, not grinding content. The biggest mistake is thinking “there’s nothing to do.” Early term is when you quietly set up habits, workflows, and expectations that carry you for the entire year. - Get 1–2 weeks ahead, not 6 months ahead. Skimming the next topic, definitions, formulas, or key ideas gives you confidence without burnout. You’re aiming for familiarity, not mastery. - Set up your folders, notebooks, and digital systems properly. Clean folders, clear naming conventions, and organised notes save hours later. Future-you will thank present-you during assessment season. - Rewrite your syllabus into a checklist you can tick off. Turning dot points into a living checklist makes studying feel concrete and purposeful, even before lessons fully start. - Turn past assessments into a ‘map’ of what actually matters. Look at past exams or assignments and identify patterns: common question types, recurring skills, and high-yield topics. This gives direction when content is light. - Focus on weak foundations from last year. Early term is the best time to fix gaps without pressure — algebra, basic chemistry reactions, core definitions, or graph skills. These weaknesses compound later if ignored. - Practice how you’ll study, not what. Trial note-taking styles, active recall methods, flashcards, exam question logs, or weekly review routines. Lock in what works before workload explodes. - Study lightly, but show up every week. Early term study should feel calm and controlled — not intense, not stressful — just consistent presence that compounds quietly.

If you missed last weeks session — or want to rewatch it — the recording of How to Maximise Your ATAR in 2026 is now live. This session was run by: - Ryan Khan (99.90 ATAR, 97th percentile UCAT) - David Sun (Dux of Brisbane Grammar School) 👉 Access the recording in the classroom section We recommend all Year 11 and 12 QCE students watch this early in the year and revisit it as needed. More resources and updates coming soon. Cheers, Ryan