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10 Study Tips to Help You Remember Things Better Before Tests

Studying for Matric or NSC exams can feel like trying to juggle 10 flaming bowling pins. With so many subjects and so much pressure, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.


But here’s the truth: you can improve your memory and focus without all-night cram sessions. These tips are practical, realistic, and designed to help you retain information and build confidence.


A person writing tips down

 

📚 1. Use a Study Guide That Breaks It Down


A good study guide saves time and keeps you focused on what matters.


✅ Look for guides that:

  • Are CAPS-aligned and exam-specific

  • Include summaries, keywords, diagrams, and examples

  • Offer practice questions for self-testing


Pair your guide with your class notes, and highlight key concepts for easier review later.


📲 Bonus: The Go Study Now app offers ready-to-use quizzes and revision tools to help lock in what you’ve learned.


 

🧠 2. Teach It to Someone Else


Explaining a topic out loud helps your brain make sense of it. Whether you talk to a sibling, a friend, or even your pet — teaching forces you to organise the information in your head.


If you can explain it simply, you truly understand it.


 

✍️ 3. Write It Down — Again


Rewriting your notes in your own words boosts memory retention.


Try:

  • Summarising notes

  • Drawing diagrams or flowcharts

  • Creating lists and tables


Writing triggers muscle memory and helps you process the content more deeply.


 

🕒 4. Use a Study Timetable


Don’t leave it to chance. Build a realistic schedule with time blocks for study, breaks, meals, and rest.


💡 Mix up subjects and switch topics regularly to keep your brain engaged. Consistency wins over perfection.


 

🎧 5. Record and Listen


Turn your notes into audio clips and listen to them while walking, commuting, or doing chores.

Perfect for auditory learners or anyone tired of reading! Repetition through listening builds deeper recall.


 

🔁 6. Use Spaced Repetition


This technique is backed by brain science. Instead of reviewing a topic once, revisit it several times — after one day, then three days, then a week.


It helps transfer knowledge into long-term memory.


📲 The Go Study Now app lets you track your progress and reminds you when to revise certain topics again.


 

🧩 7. Create Visual Aids


Visuals are powerful. Use:

  • Mind maps

  • Colour-coded charts

  • Diagrams


Visual tools help you make connections and recall concepts more easily — especially under exam pressure.


 

❓ 8. Practice With Past Papers


Real exam questions are your best prep tool. Practising past papers:

  • Builds familiarity with question styles

  • Reduces anxiety

  • Helps you identify patterns and common topics


💡 Pro Tip: Simulate test conditions and time yourself for the best effect.


 

🍎 9. Fuel Your Brain Properly


Your brain needs energy to work. Study is less effective if you’re:

  • Running on junk food

  • Dehydrated

  • Sleep-deprived


Eat balanced meals, hydrate often, and sleep at least 7–8 hours. This keeps your brain sharp.


 

🧘 10. Don’t Forget to Rest


Breaks are part of studying — not a distraction from it.


Even 5–10 minute breaks between sessions can:

  • Improve focus

  • Reduce stress

  • Help your brain process information


Go for a walk, stretch, or just close your eyes. Recharge and return stronger.


 

✅ Final Thought: Smart Study Wins


You don’t need to be a genius to remember better. With the right strategies, a balanced routine, and smart tools like Go Study Now, you can study more effectively and actually feel ready for exam day.


Start small. Keep going. And watch how your memory, confidence, and results improve.


📲 Download Go Study Now and start practising smarter today.


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