Whether you’re a high school learner preparing for matric, a college student in your final year, or just aiming to improve your academic performance, one thing is clear: getting an “A” takes more than just last-minute cramming. It takes planning, smart techniques, and consistency.
In South Africa, with the pressure of exams like the NSC (National Senior Certificate) or university mid-years and finals, students often feel overwhelmed.
But with the right approach, success is not only possible — it’s repeatable.
Here are 7 proven ways to study smarter and achieve top marks in your exams.
1. Rewrite Your Study Notes as Much as You Can
We’ve all highlighted a textbook and called it studying but does that really work? I don’t think so. Rewriting your notes helps you actively process the information, especially when you simplify what your lecturer said in your own words. Try summarising each lecture or chapter into your own mini notebook. Repetition is key here because the more you rewrite, the more your brain registers the material. You’ll be surprised how easily you recall information during your exams when your mind flashes back to that moment you jotted it down in your own messy handwriting.
2. Be Heavy on Past Questions
If you can’t comfortably answer at least 80% of the past questions, you’re probably not fully ready. Past questions give you a clear idea of how your examiner thinks and also give you a clear idea of the exam structure, question patterns, and tricky twists.
Make it a habit to time yourself while answering them, and mark your responses like you’re the lecturer. If you notice a trend in topics, chances are, they’ll show up again. Don’t just read past questions, you have actually to practise them like it’s game day.
3. Understand the Syllabus and Marking Guide
There’s power in knowing what the examiner expects of you. Most students don’t study smart because they’re not aware of the syllabus outline or the marking scheme.
Look at the course objectives and ask yourself “what am I really being asked to learn?.” Understanding how marks are allocated helps you focus your efforts, and you’ll know where to go deep and where to skim through. It’s not about reading everything, but reading the right things the right way.
4. Teach It to Someone Else
If you can explain a topic to your friend (or even your dog) in plain English without peeking at your notes, you really know it. Teaching forces you to organise your thoughts and understand concepts deeply.
Try studying in pairs or small groups, but make sure it doesn’t turn into gist time. Take turns explaining topics to each other. This way, you’ll reinforce what you know and fill in the gaps where you’re struggling.
5. Create a Realistic Study Timetable and Stick to It
Cramming the night before? Not the best plan. The key is to create a realistic timetable that spaces your study time across weeks. Break big topics into manageable chunks, and dedicate specific days to certain subjects. Also, factor in your peak focus periods. Are you a morning person or a night owl? Be honest with yourself and plan accordingly. Apps like Notin or Google Calendar can help you stay organised and on track.
6. Take Breaks, Sleep Well and Eat Right
Burnout doesn’t lead to A’s. Your brain needs rest to process what you’ve studied. Use the Pomodoro Technique of 25 minutes of deep studying, 5 minutes of rest, and then take a longer break after every 4 rounds.
Sleep is also non-negotiable. That 8-hour nap might be the reason you remember an entire topic. Don’t forget to snack smart too. Nuts, dark chocolate, fruits, milk and lots of water can boost your brainpower while you revise.
7. Use the Right Tools to Supercharge Your Studying
Sometimes it’s not just about how hard you study, but also how well-equipped you are. Here are some of the best tools and gadgets that can seriously make studying easier:
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