Study Guides for Academic Success
Proven strategies to excel in exams, write research proposals, improve memory, master computer studies, and create winning CVs
Jump to Section
How to Pass Examinations
View Full GuideExam Preparation Timeline
6-8 Weeks Before
- Create study schedule
- Gather all materials
- Identify weak areas
3-5 Weeks Before
- Active revision sessions
- Practice past papers
- Join study groups
1-2 Weeks Before
- Focus on key concepts
- Mock exams under timed conditions
- Review examiner reports
Exam Day Strategies
- Read all instructions carefully
- Allocate time per question based on marks
- Answer easiest questions first to build confidence
- Show all working for math/science questions
- Leave time to review answers
- Stay calm and manage stress
For essay exams, create quick outlines before writing to organize your thoughts.
Subject-Specific Exam Tips
Mathematics/Sciences
- Memorize key formulas
- Practice with past papers
- Show all steps in solutions
Humanities
- Use PEEL structure (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link)
- Reference key theorists
- Provide balanced arguments
Practical Subjects
- Review lab/procedure protocols
- Prepare all required materials
- Practice timing for practical exams
How to Write a Good Research Proposal
View Full GuideEssential Components
- Title: Clear and specific to your research
- Abstract: Brief summary (150-300 words)
- Introduction: Context and research problem
- Literature Review: Existing research gap
- Methodology: How you'll conduct research
- Timeline: Research phases and deadlines
- Budget: Estimated costs (if applicable)
- References: Properly cited sources
Always follow your institution's specific guidelines for formatting and structure.
Proposal Writing Tips
Do:
- Start with a clear research question
- Demonstrate relevance to your field
- Show feasibility within time/resources
- Use academic but clear language
Don't:
- Make overly ambitious claims
- Neglect proper citations
- Use vague methodology
- Ignore formatting guidelines
Sample Research Proposal Outline
1. Title Page 2. Abstract (150-300 words) 3. Introduction - Background and context - Research problem - Objectives/questions 4. Literature Review - Key theories/concepts - Gap in existing research 5. Methodology - Research design - Data collection methods - Analysis techniques 6. Significance/Expected Outcomes 7. Timeline 8. Budget (if required) 9. References
How to Memorize Everything
View Full GuideSpaced Repetition
Review information at increasing intervals to strengthen memory.
- Use apps like Anki
- Schedule review sessions
- Focus on weak areas
Memory Palace
Associate information with locations in a familiar place.
- Choose a familiar location
- Create vivid associations
- Walk through mentally
Mnemonic Devices
Create acronyms, rhymes or associations to remember lists.
- Acronyms (e.g., ROYGBIV)
- Rhymes and songs
- Visual associations
Daily Memory Boosters
- Get adequate sleep (7-9 hours)
- Stay physically active
- Practice mindfulness/meditation
- Eat brain-boosting foods (fish, nuts, berries)
- Stay hydrated
- Teach others what you learn
How to Study Computer Science
View Full GuideEffective Learning Strategies
- Balance theory with practical coding
- Work on real projects, not just exercises
- Participate in coding challenges
- Contribute to open source projects
- Build a portfolio of your work
- Join tech communities and forums
Subject-Specific Tips
Programming
- Code daily
- Learn debugging
Theory
- Use visual aids
- Teach concepts to others
Mathematics
- Practice proofs
- Relate to CS applications
Systems
- Build small systems
- Use virtualization
Recommended Learning Resources
Interactive Platforms
FreeCodeCamp, Codecademy, LeetCode
Video Courses
CS50 (Harvard), MIT OpenCourseWare
Textbooks
"Code" by Petzold, "CLRS" for algorithms
How to Write a Good CV
View Full GuideEssential CV Sections
- Contact Information: Name, phone, professional email
- Professional Summary: 3-4 sentence overview
- Work Experience: Reverse chronological order
- Education: Degrees, certifications
- Skills: Technical and soft skills
- Additional Sections: Projects, languages, volunteer work
CV Writing Tips
- Tailor for each job application
- Use action verbs (developed, managed, etc.)
- Quantify achievements where possible
- Keep it concise (1-2 pages)
- Use clean, professional formatting
- Proofread multiple times
Free Study Resources
Ready to Improve Your Study Skills?
Join thousands of African students achieving academic excellence with our guides
Create Free Account View All Guides