A structured study schedule is the difference between passing confidently and cramming anxiously. This guide provides customizable study plans based on how much time you have before your test.
How Much Time Do You Need?
Recommended Minimum Preparation Time:
- Complete beginners: 4-8 weeks (45-60 min/day)
- Some prior knowledge: 2-4 weeks (60 min/day)
- Well-versed in Australian topics: 1-2 weeks minimum (90 min/day)
Factors that affect study time:
- English language proficiency
- Prior knowledge of Australian history/government
- Learning style and retention ability
- Available daily study time
- Test anxiety levels
Option 1: Intensive 2-Week Schedule
For: Quick learners with urgent test dates
Daily commitment: 90 minutes
Best for: Those with some prior knowledge
Week 1: Foundation Building
Days 1-2: Values (Critical Priority)
- Read Part 4 of resource book (90 min)
- Practice 50 values questions
- Goal: Master all 5 core values
Days 3-4: Government Structure
- Read Part 3 of resource book
- Create government levels chart
- Practice 30 government questions
Days 5-6: History & Symbols
- Read Parts 1-2 of resource book
- Memorize key dates (1788, 1901, 1915)
- Practice 30 history questions
Day 7: First Mock Test
- Take full 20-question practice test
- Review all wrong answers
- Identify weak topics for Week 2
Week 2: Reinforcement & Testing
Days 8-10: Targeted Practice
- Focus on weak areas from mock test
- Re-read relevant book sections
- Daily values practice (never skip!)
- Take 1 mock test each day
Days 11-13: Full Practice Tests
- Take 2 full mock tests daily
- Review mistakes immediately
- Track score improvement
- Goal: Consistent 18+ scores
Day 14: Final Review & Rest
- Light review only (no intense studying)
- Quick values question practice
- Prepare test day checklist
- Get 8+ hours of sleep
Option 2: Balanced 4-Week Schedule (Recommended)
For: Most test-takers
Daily commitment: 60 minutes
Best for: Balanced preparation with less daily pressure
Week 1: Values & Foundations
- Mon-Wed: Part 4 (Values) - Read + practice 20 questions daily
- Thu-Fri: Review values, practice until perfect
- Weekend: Start Part 1 (Australia & People), practice 15 questions
Week 1 Goal: 100% accuracy on values questions
Week 2: Government & Rights
- Mon-Wed: Part 2 (Democratic Beliefs) + Part 3 (Government)
- Thu-Fri: Create gov't responsibilities chart, practice 25 questions
- Weekend: Take first full mock test, review mistakes
Week 2 Goal: Understand three levels of government
Week 3: History & Practice
- Mon-Tue: Australian history (key dates & events)
- Wed-Fri: Practice mixed questions (30-40 per day)
- Weekend: Two full mock tests
Week 3 Goal: Score 16+ on mock tests
Week 4: Mastery & Confidence
- Mon-Wed: One mock test daily, review all mistakes
- Thu-Fri: Focus on remaining weak areas
- Weekend: Final mock tests, light review, rest
Week 4 Goal: Consistent 18+ scores, confidence built
Option 3: Thorough 8-Week Schedule
For: Methodical learners with time to spare
Daily commitment: 30-45 minutes
Best for: Those who prefer steady, low-pressure learning
Weeks 1-2: Deep Reading
- Read official resource book slowly and thoroughly
- Take notes on key concepts
- Create flashcards for important facts
Weeks 3-4: Focused Topic Study
- Week 3: Values + Democratic beliefs
- Week 4: Government structure + History
- Practice 15-20 questions daily
Weeks 5-6: Mixed Practice
- Daily practice questions (25-30 per day)
- Take 2-3 full mock tests per week
- Review and strengthen weak areas
Weeks 7-8: Test Simulation & Refinement
- Daily full mock tests
- Track scores and improvement
- Final week: Light review only
Daily Study Session Structure
How to structure your 60-minute session:
- 0-20 min: Read resource book (specific section)
- 20-40 min: Practice questions on that topic
- 40-55 min: Review mistakes and re-read relevant sections
- 55-60 min: Quick values question practice (daily!)
Study Tips for Success
- Same time daily: Build a habit by studying at consistent times
- No distractions: Turn off phone, find quiet space
- Active learning: Take notes, create charts, teach others
- Never skip values: Practice values questions every single day
- Track progress: Keep a log of your mock test scores
- Rest matters: Take 1 full day off per week
When to Book Your Test
Book your test appointment when you:
- Score 18+ on 3 consecutive mock tests
- Get 5/5 on values questions consistently (at least 5 times in a row)
- Feel confident, not anxious
- Have completed your study schedule
Book 1-2 weeks after reaching this readiness to allow for final review and confidence building.
Start Your Study Schedule Today
Track your progress with our practice platform. Set goals, monitor improvement, and build confidence.
Begin Practicing →Remember: Consistency beats intensity. Short daily sessions are more effective than occasional long cramming sessions. Stick to your schedule, trust the process, and you'll pass with confidence! 🇦🇺