How to Study at the Last Minute and Still Pass Matric
- Go Study Now
- Apr 9
- 2 min read
Time is running out. Your Matric or NSC exams are around the corner — maybe even tomorrow 😅. Whether life got busy or procrastination kicked in, the important thing is: don’t panic.
You can still pass. This blog is your last-minute game plan — filled with practical strategies to help you revise fast, reduce stress, and walk into that exam room ready to win.
🧭 Step 1: Focus on the Essentials Only
Now is not the time to read every page of your textbook. You need to zero in on the most important content.
✅ Focus on:
Frequently asked past paper questions
High-weight chapters and exam themes
Key concepts, formulas, and definitions
A good study guide (or the Go Study Now app) will help you cut through the clutter and focus only on what matters most.
⏱️ Step 2: Use the 25-5 Rule (Pomodoro Technique)
Set a timer for 25 minutes of focused work, followed by a 5-minute break. After 4 rounds, take a longer 15-minute break.
This keeps your brain fresh and prevents panic or fatigue from long cramming sessions.
💡 During breaks: drink water, stretch, or take deep breaths. Don’t scroll aimlessly — stay in study mode.
📚 Step 3: Active Revision Beats Passive Reading
You don’t have time to reread notes 10 times — you need to engage.
Try:
Summarising aloud in your own words
Creating flashcards for formulas or facts
Completing a few past paper questions per subject
Even small, active steps help your brain retain info far better than reading passively.
📑 Step 4: Skim Through Past Papers
You don’t need to write out every paper in full. Instead:
Glance at question formats
Spot frequently asked topics
Review how top answers are structured
This will help you feel familiar with the paper layout and boost your confidence for exam day.
🎯 Step 5: Focus Deeply on One Subject at a Time
Jumping between subjects wastes energy. Choose one subject, study it for a few hours, and switch only when you’ve covered the essentials.
🎯 Deep focus = faster understanding.
🧠 Step 6: Use Mnemonics and Memory Hacks
Cramming doesn’t mean you can’t learn smart.
Try:
Mnemonics (e.g., BODMAS for Maths)
Acronyms (e.g., SOH CAH TOA)
Visual aids or rhymes
Memory tricks help you retain info fast — especially under pressure.
💤 Step 7: Don’t Skip Sleep Completely
Tempted to pull an all-nighter? Don’t. Your brain needs rest to store information properly.
✅ Study → Review key notes → Sleep 5–6 hours minimum
You’ll think more clearly and avoid brain fog.
🧘 Step 8: Keep Calm and Breathe
You’re doing the best you can — and that matters. Before bed or on the morning of your exam:
Breathe deeply
Visualise success
Repeat affirmations
Calm = clarity. Stress = confusion.
✅ Final Thought: You’ve Got This
Studying at the last minute isn’t ideal — but it’s still possible to pass with a clear plan and focused effort.
Use smart techniques, trust your instincts, and revise what matters most. You’ve got this!
📲 Need help reviewing fast? Download the Go Study Now app for instant access to test-aligned quizzes and essential revision tools.
Take a deep breath. Choose a subject. Start now. 💪📘
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