Hey there, future BECE graduate! If you’re reading this, it means you’re just a few days away from writing one of the most important exams in your Junior High School journey – the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), starting 10th June 2025. I’ve been in your shoes before, so I know exactly how you feel – nervous, excited, and maybe even a bit overwhelmed.
A few years ago, I sat for the BECE just like you, and I’m proud to say I passed with flying colours. But it didn’t happen by chance. I followed a set of strategies that worked for me, and today, I want to share them with you. These aren’t magic tricks – just real, practical steps that any serious student can take.
Here are 7 things I did to pass my BECE, and you can do them too:
The 7 Strategies I Used:
- Created and followed a realistic study timetable
- Focused more on my weak subjects
- Practiced past questions religiously
- Formed a study group with serious friends
- Attended extra classes and asked questions
- Took care of my health and got enough rest
- Prayed and stayed positive throughout
1. I Created and Followed a Realistic Study Timetable
One of the first things I did was to plan my time. I created a study timetable that covered all subjects, with more time allocated to the ones I found difficult. I made sure the timetable matched my natural rhythm – I studied harder topics when I was more alert (usually in the morning) and did revisions in the evening.
Example: I was weak in Science, so I scheduled Science studies for mornings when I was fresh and added shorter review sessions in the evenings.
If you haven’t already made a timetable, it’s not too late. Just make one for this final week, balancing revision and relaxation. Stick to it.
2. I Focused More on My Weak Subjects
Many students like to study only the subjects they enjoy, but that’s a trap. I spent extra time improving on the subjects I was weak in. For me, it was Integrated Science and ICT.
Example: I used YouTube videos and simplified Science textbooks like the New Integrated Science for JHS. I also asked my Science teacher to explain concepts like photosynthesis and the water cycle until I understood them.
Use this last week to strengthen your weak points – even understanding just one extra topic might make the difference in your grade.
3. I Practiced Past Questions Religiously
Past questions are gold. I solved over 5 years’ worth of past BECE questions for each subject. This helped me understand the pattern WAEC uses, and some questions actually came again in my year.
Example: In English Language, I noticed that essay topics followed a certain pattern, so I practiced writing letters, narratives, and descriptive essays often. In Maths, I noticed topics like sets, statistics, and construction always came up.
Please don’t just read the answers – try solving them first, then check the marking scheme.
READ ALSO:
- How BECE Questions Are Set 2025: What Every JHS Student Must Know
- Final BECE 2025 Timetable And Download PDF Ready
- How BECE Exams Are Marked 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide for Students (From an Examiner’s Experience)
4. I Formed a Study Group With Serious Friends
I had a small study group with three classmates. We met every Saturday and sometimes after school. We shared what we had learned, taught each other difficult topics, and even quizzed ourselves.
Example: My friend Michael was very good at Mathematics, so he explained word problems to us. In return, I helped them with Social Studies.
But be careful – only form a group with friends who are serious and focused. Avoid gossip or playing around during group study.
5. I Attended Extra Classes and Asked Questions
Sometimes, school lessons alone are not enough. I attended extra classes organized by my teachers and parents. I never hesitated to ask questions, even when others laughed – my goal was to pass.
Example: I remember asking my Maths teacher about quadratic equations three different times before I finally got it. Today, I’m glad I did.
Don’t keep quiet in class or during revision. Ask for help – it’s not a sign of weakness.
6. I Took Care of My Health and Got Enough Rest
During my final BECE week, I ate well, drank a lot of water, and made sure I got enough sleep. I avoided late-night cramming, which only made me tired and confused the next day.
Example: One night, I stayed up late trying to memorize dates in Social Studies, and I felt sleepy during the paper the next morning. I learned my lesson.
Eat well, take short walks to stretch, and get at least 7–8 hours of sleep every night this week.
7. I Prayed and Stayed Positive Throughout
Finally, I prayed and believed in myself. I kept reminding myself that I had studied and prepared well. I avoided negative people who were always panicking.
Example: Before every paper, I whispered a short prayer and told myself, “I can do this.” That gave me calmness and confidence in the exam hall.
Whether you’re religious or not, a positive mindset can give you a powerful boost.
Final Words
The BECE is not the end of your life – it’s just the beginning. But passing it well can open many doors for you in Senior High School and beyond.
With just one week to go, I encourage you to stay focused and apply these strategies. If I could do it, so can you.
Believe in yourself. Work hard. And go get that success.
I’ll be cheering for you. 💪🏾📘
