The Lock-In Plan: Setting Up for Year 13

Going into Year 13 after retaking Year 12 wasn't originally part of my plan, but it’s the best reset I could have asked for. Instead of carrying old habits into this new year, I'm completely rebuilding my daily systems. Here is how I’m setting myself up for success.

Year 12 really hit me like a ton of bricks. I had not given myself the time or space to adjust to the responsibilities and standards of the new academic year, and there was no structure in my daily life outside of school.

In Year 11, I was under the illusion that I knew how to study because I was able to read my notes and get the desired grades with a little bit of effort. I carried this into Year 12, believing I had my preferred method of studying down to a T. In actual fact, I couldn't have been more wrong—making notes that are super pretty and colorful was most definitely not effective.

Another habit I had was reading my notes passively without checking to see if I had properly absorbed the content. This, paired with the excessive gaslighting sessions where I would tell myself I understood the topic being covered, was a recipe for disaster.

Reflecting on last academic year, I have categorised everything I plan on improving in hopes of a successful upcoming year. I've settled on 3 systems to improve my academic success:

System 1: Study Technique Shift

Instead of continuing with a passive studying format that has shown little to no results, I plan on switching to active recall methods: 

Flashcards: These are perfect for me and have worked wonders in the past. I’ll be using these constantly for my subjects. 

Past Papers: This is one of the best ways to ensure everything studied is tailored toward the exam board and great for understanding how to structure exam answers.

System 2: Daily Desk & Time Management Routine

In order to ensure these techniques are effective, I need to implement them frequently through a routine. The best way to do this is squeezing in a block of uninterrupted study time each day. It’s going to be a little tricky given personal responsibilities outside of academics, but that’s just how life goes. It will help build discipline as well as improve my grades.

System 3: Digital & Focus Environment

Speaking of discipline, I will now be very strict on how often and when I use my phone. To help me focus, I am going to try filming my study sessions. Recording myself while I work will make me feel obligated and inclined to look like I am working, which will lead to actually getting work done. And just to make sure I stick to it, I might post the time-lapses and vlog the sessions!

The Tools I’m Using

It's super important to go into this year with a clear plan and the right tools. Alongside these systems, I'll be using:

Quizlet & StudySmarter (for active recall and flashcards)

YPT (YPT - Yeolpumta, great for tracking focus time)

Sectograph (for visual routine management)

(Side note: I’d use Notion since people rate it so highly, but I find it a bit confusing if I'm being honest!)

Mindset going forward

Honestly, I think the most important thing going into this next year is actually believing in myself and coming in with a positive mindset. Year 13 is about steady, daily progress rather than last-minute action.

What do you guys think would've been a better way to prepare for Year 13, and are there any habits you absolutely wouldn't repeat?

Thanks so much for reading and I will see you guys again soon!

xoxo Angel