Even though the Ministry of Education (MOE) has done away with having mid-year exams, some students are still anxious about how they are performing in their studies. While this is a valid concern, it is not just about studying hard. Very often, it is knowing how to study smarter that will make a difference in students’ results.

Here are the TOP 7 TIPS that Impact Circle has to offer for students hoping to make a difference in their results this year:

#1 – Make a study plan: Create a plan for what you want to study to help you manage your time better and stay on track. Use a calendar or planner to schedule your study sessions and set realistic goals. Google Calendar is a great tool!

#2 – Prioritize the most important information: Focus on the most important information and concepts that will be covered in the Weighted Assessment (WA) and exam. Use practice exams or previous tests to identify the topics that you need to focus on. Remember, focus on what’s important!

#3 – Use active learning techniques: Engage with the material actively, rather than just reading or listening to it passively. Try using techniques like summarizing, taking notes, creating flashcards, or teaching the material to someone else. You will remember your material better if you make notes out of them and revise them regularly.

#4 – Take breaks: Studies show that taking short breaks during studying can improve your overall performance. Take a 5-10 minute break for every 30-45 minutes of study time to help you stay focused and refreshed. Your brain needs a break after each session of focused studying!

#5 – Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep is crucial for effective studying. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help improve your memory and concentration. We know it is cool to stay up late at night but it is not cool to deal with lethargy due to a lack of sleep 😉

#6 – Stay organized: Keep your study materials organized and in one place to help you stay focused and reduce stress. Use color-coded folders or tabs to help you quickly locate important information. Time to take out your highlighters and coloured files!

#7 – Stay motivated: Find ways to stay motivated and engaged in your studies. Set realistic goals for yourself and reward yourself when you achieve them. Surround yourself with supportive friends or study partners who can encourage you. You can check out our Motivation Wednesday and Fun Friday Instagram posts for weekly doses of inspiration!

By implementing these strategies, you can study smarter, not harder, and achieve better results with less stress and effort. Also, remember to take care of your physical and mental health while you study. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. Your teachers, tutors, and peers can be great resources when you need extra help or support. Remember that effective studying is a skill that takes time and practice to develop. The key to effective studying is finding what works best for you and being consistent with your efforts.