The Final Bend on the Road to YKS!

With just a few days left until the highly anticipated Higher Education Institutions Exam (YKS), it's “harvest time” for university candidates. Ertuğrul Tut, Director of Education, Promotion, and Guidance Services at Altınbaş University, shared key insights for students to effectively manage the final two weeks before the exam—focusing on everything from exam psychology to performance. He outlined 7 essential recommendations to help candidates make the most of their remaining time:

1. Stick to a Plan 
Set a daily study schedule—even plan your meals in advance. List out all topics from each subject and eliminate the ones you’re confident in. For the rest, plan when and how you’ll revisit them through problem-solving. A structured plan helps clarify goals and optimizes time management.

2. Review Your Weak Points
Analyze your past mock exams to identify weak areas. Reviewing your mistakes helps determine where to focus your efforts. A well-done analysis can answer the common question: “Where should I start?”

3. Take Full-Length Practice Exams
Simulate real exam conditions by taking daily practice exams—ideally two per day. Focus on reviewing the questions you missed, especially if they fall under the same topic. A quick review of those areas can be very effective.

4. Stay Motivated
Motivation is key during this phase. It directly affects focus and mental well-being. Reduce screen time—especially phones—as they harm concentration and motivation. Let yourself daydream about your future goals; this positivity can help boost morale.

5. Take Care of Your Health
Sleep well, eat healthy, and stay physically active to enhance mental performance. Set a consistent sleep schedule tailored to the exam day. Don’t forget to make time for yourself in your daily plan—take walks to get fresh air and improve both physical and mental health.

6. Stay Calm
A moderate level of anxiety is normal. Engage in calming activities like walking or hobbies to manage stress. When stress is balanced, it can enhance focus and motivation. If stress becomes overwhelming, consider seeking professional help.

7. Parents’ Attitudes Matter
Parental behavior plays a major role in the final stretch. Avoid actions that increase stress or pressure. Overly unusual or different behavior can raise students’ anxiety. Speak with your child occasionally to ease their worries, but maintain your usual tone and manner. Remember: this is their journey, their choices, and their success. Your support is crucial in helping them make choices that will lead to a happy future.

With discipline and a good plan, you can reach your goals.
Best of luck!