When December arrives, many students are faced with a crossroads: to rest or to continue studying? The truth is that the Christmas holidays are one of the best times to reinforce your studies for the Selectividad, as long as you know how to organise yourself and what resources to take advantage of.
At Academia Guiu we know: success in the Selectividad is not achieved by improvising at the last minute, but by maintaining a constant and flexible strategy. So, if you want to get the most out of this period, here is a useful, realistic and effective guide.
Study with planning, not obsession
It is not a question of studying 10 hours a day between turrones and Christmas carols. But it is about maintaining a routine, even if it is less intense than during the course. Establishing reasonable schedules, with planned breaks and weekly goals, is more effective than spending the day in front of your notes without focus or direction.
A good practice is to use techniques such as reverse planning: set your study goals for January and work backwards to December by dividing the syllabus into weekly blocks.
This will avoid the frustration of not knowing where to start or feeling that you are wasting your time.
Take advantage of super-intensive courses designed for this time of year.
The Christmas holidays are not just for revision, but also for intensifying your preparation. In our super-intensive course for the Selectividad we work with small groups, real simulations and strategic revision focused on the most demanding tests.
And this is no small thing: according to figures from the Ministry of Universities, in 2023, 18.7% of students will not achieve the minimum mark to access their first choice of degree.
Why is that? For not optimising their preparation at the right time. December is that time.
Strengthen your weak points with private online classes.
The holidays are also a good time to deepen your knowledge of those subjects that are most difficult for you. If the integrals get in your way or the argumentative texts make you tremble, the solution is not to overwhelm yourself, but to get expert help.
With our online private lessons you can organise 100% personalised sessions, from home, and with teachers who work on your syllabus, your doubts and your pace.
And if you don’t know how to get the most out of it, we recommend you read this essential article: How to get the most out of your private classes.
Simulate, evaluate and readjust your plan
Holidays are also the ideal time to take real mock exams. Sit down, without distractions, for the actual time a test lasts, and test yourself. What do you get out of it? Not just a grade, but valuable information: what you are good at, where you are wasting time, what concepts you need to review.
Moreover, if you are an international student, this step is doubly important. In our programme of Selectividad UNED for international baccalaureate students, we guide our students through this type of exercise with personalised monitoring and detailed revision.
Don’t neglect your Spanish language skills
For many students, especially international students, the barrier is not the syllabus, but the language. If you struggle to understand texts in depth, express ideas clearly or argue in Spanish, it’s time to strengthen your level.
Make it easy: start by identifying your starting point with our online Spanish level test. From there, you can work on specific vocabulary, reading comprehension and writing for the Selectividad. The sooner you get on with it, the more confidence you’ll gain for June.
Beware of time thieves
At Christmas, “time thieves” are everywhere: series marathons, endless scrolling on networks, improvised plans. Should you avoid them all? Of course you shouldn’t. You also need to disconnect and enjoy yourself. But you must be clear about which time is for leisure and which is for study. And stick to it.
The trick is to leave room for both without guilt. If you study effectively for your 2-4 hours a day, you’ve earned that time with friends, that movie or that afternoon break. The problem is not resting, it’s resting when you haven’t even started.
And the most important thing: don’t lose your motivation.
Remember this: more than 94% of the students who prepare with us get into university. It’s not luck, it’s perseverance.
The Selectividad is a long-distance race, but if you keep up the pace during these weeks, you will be ahead of many who will start again in January with accumulated pressure.
If you have any doubts, if you don’t know where to start or if you need a tailor-made plan, we are here. You can contact us and we will help you structure your holidays with academic criteria.
Frequently asked questions about preparing for Selectivity during the Christmas holidays
Should I study over the Christmas holidays or is it better to rest?
Both are possible. It’s advisable to maintain a light but steady routine, with realistic goals and planned breaks. The key is in efficient time management.
What are the benefits of super-intensive courses in December?
They provide focused review of key subjects. With real mock exams and personalized support, these courses are ideal for gaining confidence and strengthening weak areas.
Can I combine holiday plans with online private lessons?
Yes. Online private lessons offer total flexibility and adapt to your schedule. You can focus on specific topics without giving up your holiday plans or rest time.
How can I organize myself if I have limited time before the exam?
Use reverse planning techniques: define your study goals for January and divide content backward through December. It will give you a clear roadmap and help reduce stress.
What if my Spanish level isn’t strong enough?
At Academia Guiu, we offer Spanish courses for foreigners and a free test to help you identify your level and improve your academic Spanish skills.
How can I avoid typical Christmas distractions?
Clearly define your study and leisure times. If you complete your daily study plan, you can enjoy guilt-free breaks. Balance and consistency are the keys.
Why is it important to stay motivated in December?
Because December makes a difference. Those who stay consistent during the holidays start January ahead. Staying motivated is key to succeeding in Selectivity.
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