Simple learning techniques can boost grades

No matter how well you have prepared for your exams, if you can't remember vital information on the day of the test all that hard work will be in vain. Although in some cases practice makes perfect, in the case of memory improvement it takes much more than just repetition to bring about effective change.

'Memory should really be a by-product of learning. Information can be retained better and for longer if the individual understands it,' said Shiu Ling-po, associate professor at Chinese University's department of educational psychology. 'It would be quite impossible for students to excel academically and achieve As based on just memorisation.'

Experts agree that last-minute cramming is futile.

'Straight memorisation of large volumes of information without proper learning strategies is not effective for both attainment and aptitude testing. Regular study at a regular pace makes the information more meaningful and improves retention,' said Helen Fung Yee-shou, a psychologist and senior consultant at SHL, a provider of workplace assessment tests.

Better information absorption can indeed come about with the adoption of a few simple learning habits, such as setting out a goal-oriented study plan, determining when the best time of study for each person is, learning in small segments, remembering the information in some type of context and using visual memorisation aids.

'It is advisable to distribute your study time. For example, studying an hour each day over five days is far more effective than a five-hour stint in one go,' said Professor Shiu, noting staggered studying affords more opportunity for improvement as the memory is refreshed regularly.