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This is it — the final lesson before your CSSE 11+ exam. Everything you have learned, every practice paper you have completed, every spelling list you have studied — it has all been leading to this. This lesson covers everything you need to know about the day itself.
By the week before the exam, heavy revision should be over. This is the time for light review and confidence building:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7 days before | Do one final timed practice paper (both English and Maths) |
| 6 days before | Review the practice paper — note any weak areas |
| 5 days before | Light revision on weak areas only (30 minutes maximum) |
| 4 days before | Spelling and mental arithmetic quick-fire drills (15 minutes) |
| 3 days before | Read through your key notes or flashcards |
| 2 days before | No revision. Do something fun and relaxing. |
| 1 day before | Pack your bag. Early night. Positive thoughts. |
Important: Cramming the night before does not work. Your brain needs rest to perform at its best.
Prepare your bag the evening before the exam. Check each item off:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 2 sharp pencils (or a mechanical pencil) | For writing answers |
| An eraser | For correcting mistakes neatly |
| A ruler | For underlining and geometry questions |
| A pencil sharpener | In case your pencils break |
| A water bottle | Staying hydrated helps concentration |
| A small snack | For the break between papers (banana, cereal bar, nuts) |
| A watch (if allowed) | To track your time during the exam |
Do NOT bring: a calculator, a mobile phone, or any revision notes (unless the school specifically says otherwise).
| What to do | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Pack your bag and lay out your clothes | Removes morning stress |
| Eat a proper dinner | Your brain needs fuel |
| Avoid screens for 1 hour before bed | Blue light disrupts sleep |
| Go to bed early (by 8:30 p.m. at the latest) | You need 9–10 hours of sleep |
| Read a book or listen to calm music | Helps you relax and fall asleep |
Your brain runs on glucose, so you need a breakfast that releases energy slowly:
| Good choices | Why |
|---|---|
| Porridge with fruit | Slow-release carbohydrates |
| Wholemeal toast with eggs | Protein and complex carbs |
| Banana and a glass of milk | Natural sugars and calcium |
| Yoghurt with granola | Protein and fibre |
Avoid: sugary cereal, chocolate, energy drinks, or skipping breakfast entirely.
| Time | Action |
|---|---|
| Wake up in good time | No rushing — set an alarm with extra time |
| Eat breakfast | Sit down and eat properly |
| Check your bag | Quick final check that everything is packed |
| Travel to the exam | Arrive at least 15 minutes early |
| Settle in | Find your seat, lay out your equipment, take deep breaths |
When the paper is placed in front of you:
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