What is the best way to prepare students for end of year mathematics exams? Evidence shows that a lot of students cram in the days leading into an exam, certainly not a particularly effective strategy. Some students claim they went 'blank' in an exam, is this real? What strategies are there to help avoid this situation. In this session we will discuss and experience a range of strategies to support student engagement, learning and success. Under the right amount of pressure, a lump of coal is trnsformed into a diamond.