Study Skills

Term 2: Weeks 1–3

1. Why Are Study Skills Important?

• They help you learn faster, remember more, and perform better in tests and exams.
• They reduce stress and improve your confidence.
• They make it easier to stay organised and motivated.

2. Listening, Reading and Note-Taking Skills

• ✅ Good listening skills: Sit near the front, make eye contact, take short notes, ask questions.
• ✅ Reading and comprehension: Scan headings, underline key points, summarise after reading.
• ✅ Note-taking: Use bullet points, colour, and keywords (not full sentences).

3. Concentration and Memory Skills

• Find a quiet place to study without distractions.
• Put your phone away and take regular breaks.
• Use memory tools like acronyms, rhymes, and mind maps.
• Test yourself or explain work to someone else.

4. Managing Your Time

• Create a realistic study timetable.
• Study early – don’t cram the night before.
• Break big tasks into smaller steps.
• Balance study with rest and fun.
• Avoid time-wasters like endless scrolling.

5. Study Methods

• Summarise what you’ve studied in your own words.
• Use past papers and different revision techniques.
• Create mind maps, flashcards, rhymes or mnemonics.

🧠 What is a Mind Map?

• A diagram showing connections between ideas and a central topic.
• Helps you visualise and remember important facts.
• Use colour and keywords – not full sentences.

6. Writing Essays and Assignments

• Understand the question first.
• Plan your structure: introduction, body, conclusion.
• Edit and improve spelling, punctuation, and grammar.

7. Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

• ✅ Critical thinking: Ask questions, analyse facts, check for bias.
• ✅ Creative thinking: Brainstorm, think outside the box, use different methods.
• ✅ Problem-solving steps: Define → Gather info → List solutions → Choose → Act → Reflect

8. Understanding Assessment

• Formal: Exams, tests, and projects for marks.
• Informal: Classwork or homework to check progress.
• Internal: Marked at school by teachers.
• External: Exams set by the department or district.