Hi h3,
There is still plenty of time before the test and you've got just under a year to study. Many people I know who did the test didn't study until March so your already a few steps ahead. I would absolutely recommend buying past test papers as not only do they improve your understanding of the given discipline and format, but it also improves your time management (Having good time management is half the test won). Although practice tests like Edutest is recommended, you could save a lot of money using other sites as you spend half the money on English tests and JMSS doesn't have an English test. Use websites such as bigbrain.au and brainworks.au these are both free and only require you to set up an account to access.
For your other questions, logic and problem solving is crucial for both the science and maths exams so the daily IQ tests are a great way to strengthen these, just remember to motivate yourself every day and track your improvements. I have also done a Science Olympiad similar to what you've done with the JSO and I can assure you that the JMSS test is not as hard as the JSO. The JSO is made to challenge students in order for selection for the Australian Junior Science Olympiad Team so don't stress to much about it. However, this doesn't mean that the topics in the JSO won't be in the test, there definitely will be.
For the Science exams, covering basic Year 9 and a bit of the Year 10 syllabus will get you through. The usual trio Chem (elements, subatomic particles, base) Bio ( cells, body systems, food chain and maybe Darwin's theory of evolution/ natural selection) and Phys (Newton's laws, force, and matter/energy. ) these take up majority of the questions as well as other bits and bobs that you wouldn't expect.
For writing, the key bits are mainly the structure, clarity as well as having a good eye in spotting a mistake or missing component and highlighting it. For the other Science Writing, use all the information provided as you will seldomly have a good understanding of the given topic. Practice adding some extra "spice" to your writing as you want to be the writing that "stands out" from the pack.
To improve your studying, believe it or not, many people use AI, ChatGPT is fine, but I would recommend Gemini instead. When asking Gemini for certain topics and theories always ask for a 10 - 20 question quiz at the end to show your understanding and your learning. And always provide clear and concise instructions when asking AI.
There is still plenty of time and we all believe in you! Make the effort and acknowledge that everyday counts! One day of studying could be the line of success and failure. But judging on your preparedness and responsibility, JMSS will want a gem like you!
If you have any questions or enquiries, feel free to ask me!
