This is the first thing that students should try to accomplish when starting their studies. Learning the main concepts in regards to the sciences and trying to memorise the specific definitions in an easy way, such as physical cue cards or using quizlet will be useful. It can be as simple as going over the definitions mentally in your head whilst you are waiting for your bus, on when you are on your way home. The continuous task of retrieving memory on the spot will best prepare you for your exams when you will also have no notes available to you. A tutor can help you make these cue cards and help you practise using them.

Science is all about what is happening in the world around us. If you are struggling to understand some concepts, an easy thing to do is to try and relate it back to your own experiences. Whether it be in regards to potential energy in mechanics, melting/freezing water in chemistry or simply looking into what genetic traits you have from your parents. Knowing these things and developing an understanding of how it all works around you will be a great tool for remembering key ideas.

NCEA may seem a little daunting coming up to it in your first year and you may be wondering just what the markers are looking for. The first step is to always give a definition or a formula at the start of your answer. This will allow the marker to see what you know about the topic and has a clear understanding of where you may take your answer. If you are a little stuck on answering exam questions, you can look at past exam answers through the StudyTime page. A great way for revision is to practise past exam under exam conditions (1 hour per paper, no notes) and then compare your answers to the excellence exemplar. This will allow you to understand what points you have nailed and other areas you may need to tweak. It may be hard to get started on a past exam, so a tutor can help you by breaking down the questions and figuring out the specifics that the examiner is looking for.