Get ready to showcase your artistic insights Visual Arts P1 is on Monday, November 10, 2025 at 14:00

Hello matriculants! The moment you’ve been preparing for is almost upon us. It’s time to mark your calendars and get your ducks in a row for the Visual Arts Paper 1 exam. You’ll be sitting for this important paper on Monday, November 10, 2025, starting promptly at 14:00. This isn’t just another school test; it’s your final matric exam, so let’s make sure you’re fully ready and calm when the day arrives.

Preparing for your visual arts P1 exam

Right, so you know the date. Now, what to do between now and then? Revision, my friends, is key! Don’t cram everything in the last week. Break down your Visual Arts Paper 1 syllabus into manageable chunks. Dedicate specific times each day or week to go over art history, visual literacy, interpretation of artworks, and understanding different art movements. Practise analysing artworks using the correct terminology. Go through past papers, not just to see the questions but to understand the mark allocation and how to structure your answers. Remember, consistent effort beats last-minute panic every time. Create a study timetable that suits your learning style and stick to it.

Don’t forget the date

A simple mistake like forgetting the exam date can be costly, so let’s avoid that, eh? Write down Monday, November 10, 2025 (14:00) on a sticky note and put it where you see it every day – perhaps on your mirror, next to your bed, or even on your phone’s wallpaper. Set a reminder on your phone for a week before, three days before, and the day before the exam. Tell your family the date too, so they can help you remember and support you. Knowing the exact date and time helps you plan your final revision schedule more effectively, reducing stress as the day approaches.

The big day: What to do on monday, november 10, 2025

On the morning of November 10th, try to have a good breakfast, something that will keep you energised without making you feel heavy. Avoid last-minute cramming; instead, do a light review of key terms or concepts. You need to arrive at the exam venue well in advance, at least 30 to 45 minutes before 14:00. This gives you time to find your seat, settle down, use the restroom, and calm your nerves without feeling rushed. Being early helps you get into the right frame of mind and avoids any unexpected delays like traffic or getting lost. Take a moment to breathe and remind yourself of all the hard work you’ve put in.

Your essential toolkit for visual arts P1

For Visual Arts Paper 1, which is typically the theory paper, you won’t need paints or brushes. Here’s what you absolutely must take with you to the exam hall:

• Your official Examination Admission Letter/Permit. No entry without it!
• A black or blue pen. Make sure it’s working well and take a spare just in case.
• Pencils (HB or 2B are generally good for any rough work or light sketching if needed for analysis).
• A good quality eraser.
• A sharpener.
• A ruler (30cm is usually sufficient).
• A clear pencil case. All stationery must be visible.
• A clear bottle of water. Stay hydrated, it helps with concentration.
• Perhaps a small, non-noisy snack like a energy bar if allowed and you have a long exam. Check with your invigilator beforehand.
• Your watch (analogue is generally preferred, no smartwatches allowed).

Double-check you have everything before you leave home!

Exam hall decorum

Once you’re in the exam hall, maintain silence. Listen carefully to the invigilator’s instructions. When the paper is distributed, read all instructions thoroughly before you start writing. Manage your time wisely, allocating it according to the marks for each question. If you finish early, use the remaining time to review your answers, check for any errors, and ensure you’ve answered all questions. Remember, no talking, no sharing of stationery, and absolutely no cheating. Your integrity is important.

Important resource for your planning

To help you keep track of all your exams, you can download the full matric timetable. It’s a great tool for planning your study sessions for all your subjects. Make sure you get it and plan your revision around it:

Matric Grade 12 Timetable Download link: https://www.education.gov.za/Portals/0/Documents/Publications/2025/2025%20OCT%20NOV%20TIME%20TABLE.pdf

You’ve got this! All your hard work, late nights, and early mornings will pay off. Stay focused, stay calm, and approach the Visual Arts Paper 1 with confidence. Good luck, future artists!