5 ways to boost your study memory

Can’t seem to recall that math formula for your SPM exam? Here are some helpful tips on remembering better.

SPM exams are near and there are a lot of facts to memorise before the exams begin. Studying does not have to painful and hard. You can create your own shortcuts to recall your study materials. Here are some tips to boost your study memory:

1. Understand

Know what you are studying before trying to memorise. Learning the key terms and explanations behind the formulas helps you create better connection between detailed concepts and the larger picture. This makes the information more meaningful for you.

2. Your own revision sheet

For every subject, have a revision sheet for your own reference. Doing this will make you sift through every chapter to summarise them and will keep you organised and ready for your exams. Use mind maps to link all of the new concepts together.

3. Word associations

Can't remember the positions of ions in the electrochemical series? Easy! Use mnemonic devices to recall the order of particular operations or formula. Visuals and colours can also help you recall details as you begin to visualise the concepts - and adds to the fun of studying!

4. Practice tests before the actual exam

Practicing sample answers to past exam questions helps you retrieve information. This also tests your understanding and pushes you to re-examine what you have studied. You can even download some of these past exam papers for free. Check out the SPM Revision Guide and Sekolah Berasrama Penuh (SBP) Trial Papers.

5. Hit the Z's

Sleep can actually be strength. We can never emphasise enough how important sleep is for your cognitive function, i.e. your test-taking abilities. This is more important than all the caffeine you can take to keep you alert. Your brain needs the rest to keep you focused as well as to absorb and assimilate all the information you are taking in during revision. Take a short break  after every hour of studying, and have 6-8 hours of sleep every night.

Everyone has their own study methods, and it is all about finding out what works for you.

Just remember to:

All the best with revisions!

Read more:

5 tips to help balance social life and studies

5 tried-and-tested tips to score straight As in your SPM exams

Do top students study smart or study hard?