A useful academic practice resource should help school students do more than complete a large number of questions. The quality of the practice matters because students need opportunities to understand topics, apply knowledge and recognise areas where further study is needed.

First, consider relevance. A resource should match the student’s subject, year level and current learning needs as closely as possible. A student preparing for a maths assessment, for example, needs practice that relates to the mathematical skills they are expected to develop.

Clear instructions are also important. Students should be able to understand what each task is asking without unnecessary confusion. Where answers or explanations are provided, they should help students identify mistakes and understand a better approach.

A good practice resource should also support independent learning. Students benefit when they can attempt questions themselves, check their work and decide what to revisit. Variety can be useful too, particularly when it gives students opportunities to practise different skills rather than repeating one question format.

Parents and students should also consider usability. If a resource is difficult to access, navigate or fit into a normal study routine, it may be less useful in practice.

Before choosing a resource, ask what learning problem it solves. The best choice is not necessarily the resource with the most content. It is the one that supports purposeful practice and fits the student’s needs.