Use active study, not passive reading
After reading a section, close the book and explain it aloud, answer questions from memory, or write a short summary without looking. This exposes what you do not yet know.
Build consistency now. Your future exam self will thank you.
How to study effectively
Plan short, repeatable sessions
Choose a specific topic, study it for a focused block, take a short break, then test yourself. Return to the topic on later days instead of trying to learn everything once.
Build an exam routine
- Read instructions before answering.
- Allocate time according to marks.
- Start with questions you can answer confidently.
- Underline key words such as calculate, explain, compare or discuss.
- Leave time to check calculations, units, labels and unanswered questions.
Subject-by-subject guidance
Mathematics
Practise daily, not only before tests. Learn methods by doing questions without notes, keep an error book, and redo mistakes a few days later. In exams, show every step, mark difficult questions, move on, then return.
Maths Literacy
Read every question carefully, identify what is being asked, and write units. Practise with real-life contexts such as budgets, tariffs, maps and graphs. Estimate first so you can spot unrealistic calculator answers.
Physical Sciences
Separate concepts from calculation. Build a formula-and-units sheet, draw diagrams, and practise changing the subject of formulas. For chemistry, explain processes in your own words; for physics, identify knowns, unknowns, formula, substitution and units.
Life Sciences
Understand processes as connected stories rather than memorising isolated paragraphs. Draw labelled diagrams from memory, compare similar concepts in tables, practise definitions exactly, and use past questions to learn command words.
Accounting
Accounting improves through repetition. Learn the format of every statement, then practise full questions under time pressure. Reconcile every calculation, use workings clearly, and keep a list of common adjustments and their effects.
EMS
Learn concepts, but always connect them to examples. Use short summaries for terminology, then practise calculations and case-study questions. Pay attention to wording because many marks are awarded for applying knowledge to a scenario.
Geography
Combine understanding with map and data skills. Practise interpreting graphs, synoptic charts and maps regularly. For theory, explain causes, processes and consequences using linked sentences; for mapwork, check scale, direction and units.
Final-week checklist
- Do not start every topic from scratch; prioritise weak areas identified by past papers.
- Practise under realistic time limits.
- Mark your work and study the reason behind every mistake.
- Sleep properly and prepare stationery and equipment before exam day.
- Use the Study Resources Hub for past papers, formula sheets and summaries.
LANGUAGE SUCCESS
How to Study Sesotho HL & FAL
Sesotho improves through regular use. Build vocabulary, read often, practise writing, and prepare for comprehension, grammar and literature as separate skills.
1. Read every week
Read Sesotho stories, articles and prescribed texts. Keep a vocabulary list with meanings and example sentences. Do not memorise isolated words only—learn how they are used in context.
2. Practise comprehension actively
Read the questions first, return to the passage for evidence, and answer exactly what is asked. Pay attention to mark allocation: a 3-mark question usually requires more than one short idea.
3. Separate grammar from writing practice
Revise language structures and grammar rules, then practise them in sentences. For essays and transactional writing, plan before writing and check spelling, punctuation, paragraphs and instructions afterwards.
4. Prepare literature properly
Know characters, themes, conflict, setting and important events. Use a chapter or scene summary, then practise explaining how evidence supports your answer instead of memorising essays word for word.
Exam technique
Manage time between sections, answer in the required language where instructed, and leave a few minutes to edit your writing. Check that you answered every question and followed the format required.