The Easter break is a golden opportunity for Leaving Cert and Junior Cert students to fine-tune their revision plans and get ahead before the final stretch. But with two weeks off, it's easy to waste valuable time or burn out from over-studying. Here’s how to balance revision and rest to make the most of your break.

1. Set Realistic Goals

Before you even open a book, take some time to outline what you want to achieve over Easter. Ask yourself:

✔ What subjects do I need to focus on most?

✔ Which topics do I struggle with?

✔ How many past papers should I aim to complete?

Be specific with your goals. Instead of saying, “I’ll study Maths,” set a target like, “I’ll complete two Paper 1 questions on algebra and one full Paper 2 question on geometry.”

2. Follow a Study Plan (But Keep It Flexible)

A study timetable will help keep you accountable, but don’t over-pack your days. A good rule of thumb:

📌 Study for 3–4 hours per day (split into two sessions).

📌 Focus on two subjects per day to avoid burnout.

📌 Plan for active revision – not just reading notes, but testing yourself with past papers, flashcards, or study groups.

Here’s an example of how you might structure a study day:

⏰ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: English Paper 1 comprehension & essay practice.

⏰ 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Break & lunch.

⏰ 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Maths Paper 2 – tackling probability & statistics questions.

⏰ 2:30 PM – Evening: Free time, hobbies, or socialising.

3. Prioritise Past Papers

Practising past exam questions is one of the best ways to prepare. Try this method:

✅ Start with timed exam questions – aim to complete them under real conditions.

✅ Compare your answers with marking schemes to see where you can improve.

✅ Identify patterns – some topics appear frequently in past papers, so focus on these!

4. Mix Up Your Study Techniques

If you find yourself zoning out, try switching up your study methods:

🎧 Listen to podcasts or watch videos for tricky subjects.

📝 Create summary sheets or mind maps.

🎤 Teach someone else – explaining a topic to a friend or family member is a great way to reinforce learning.

5. Take Breaks and Stay Active

Study breaks are just as important as study sessions. Make sure to:

🚶 Get fresh air – go for a short walk.

🍏 Eat brain-boosting foods – nuts, fruit, and water over energy drinks.

😴 Get enough sleep – aim for at least 7–8 hours per night to help with memory retention.

6. Don’t Forget to Rest and Recharge

The Easter break isn’t just about studying – you need time to relax too. Taking a full day off (or at least half-days) will help keep you motivated.

✅ Plan something fun – whether it’s meeting friends, watching a movie, or doing a hobby you enjoy.

✅ Reduce stress – mindfulness, deep breathing, or short exercise sessions can help you stay calm and focused.

Final Thoughts

The key to a successful Easter study break is balance. Use your time wisely, but don’t overdo it. Small, consistent efforts will make a big difference when exam season arrives.

Need more revision help? Check out iRevise for past papers, sample answers, and expert study resources!