For Year 11 and 12 students, the HSC can feel like a huge mountain of content. It’s easy to think tutoring is just about learning more stuff. But in my experience, the biggest wins come from working on simpler, smarter skills.

Here are three key ones:

1. Interrogate the Question.
Before answering a question, spend one minutes dissecting the question. Circle the key verb—‘analyse’, ‘evaluate’, ‘discuss’. Underline the core concept and any text or source mentioned. This simple act forces you to engage with what is actually being asked, ensuring your entire answer is on target from the very first sentence.

2. Practice under timed conditions.
Knowing the content is only half the battle; delivering it within the strict exam timeframe is the other. Instead of only writing full practice essays, break it down. Set a timer for 10 minutes and draft a single, perfect paragraph. Or give yourself 5 minutes to plan an entire essay structure. This builds ‘muscle memory’ for the exam’s pace and reduces panic on the day.

3. Past Papers.
The best way to study is to use past papers. There are numerous places where these are accessible, whether through school or websites such as THSC, these past papers are your best friends.

True preparation isn’t about endless, draining repetition. It’s about targeted, intelligent practice. By focusing on these three strategies, you build confidence and clarity, turning the HSC from a marathon of memorisation into a manageable showcase of your skills.

Ella Fisher