How to Get Good Marks in Exams - 10 Powerful hacks

If you’ve ever asked yourself how to get good marks in an exam, you’re not alone—and the good news is, it’s completely within your reach. Getting top scores isn’t just about long hours of studying; it’s about adopting smart strategies, managing your time well, and taking care of both your mind and body. Whether you’re aiming for school exams or competitive tests, understanding how to get good marks in exam means learning the right techniques and staying motivated every step of the way.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical tips and proven methods to help you prepare effectively, boost your confidence, and perform your best on exam day. From creating a solid study plan to managing stress and building a supportive environment, you’ll discover everything you need to turn your hard work into great results.

How to get good marks in exam – Top 10 Hacks

Proven techniques for effective exam preparation include regular revision, breaking down the syllabus, practicing past papers, staying organized, and managing stress. Focus on understanding the material, take breaks, get enough sleep, and maintain a healthy diet. Here are some effective strategies on how to get good marks in exams-

Hack #1: Using Mnemonics

If you wonder how to learn fast for exams, mnemonics is the answer. Remember, when you were a child, your teachers and parents used to help you memorize via rhymes and songs? Do you still remember all those rhymes? This suggests how powerful mnemonics are for memorizing something.

• Mnemonics make studying easy and fun and help you plant knowledge in your mind. Using mnemonics, you can remember the name of a person, a place, a date, or any such vital information. All you need to do is create a story, a rhyme, or a sentence with all the elements you aim to cram.
• One common mnemonic used to learn the name and order of planets is “My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Nachos” (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune).
• Some standard mnemonic techniques include the following-
  • Memory palaceImageryKeyword usageRhymesAcronyms
  • Music, etc.

Hack #2: Paying attention in class

Paying attention in class is key to exam success. Front benchers often perform better because they engage fully with the material, which helps retain information long-term. Teachers use effective methods, and staying focused in class reduces the need for extra study at home.

Hack #3: Making notes

When we attend a lecture and understand everything, we think all the information will stay with us forever. However, when we leave the classroom often, most of the facts we hear or learn about also leave our minds instantly. Therefore, it is better to make notes.

• Make notes in the easiest way, which is entirely understandable for you.
• You can also make infographics and images within the notes.
• You can also highlight the necessary parts and create tables and pointers to make revising more interesting. This will help you improve your results.

Hack #4: Revising regularly

Cramming is not the solution, but revising is. Whenever you are studying an important concept, you don’t need to grasp it when you read it for the first time. The answer to how to study effectively for exams lies in continuous revision.

Revising your syllabus 3-5 hours per day is enough to permanently ensure the concepts and knowledge are vested in your mind. The more you revise, the more clarity you gain on each aspect of your syllabus, and the need for cramming is eliminated!

Hack #5: Practicing problems

Apart from theoretical subjects or topics, several elements, such as equations, problems, etc., need regular practice. You must create a practice plan for such issues depending upon your strong and weak points.

• The best exam tip for students is to focus on the problems/equations you find the most daunting.
• Try to practice them as many times as possible. However, do not leave the easy ones behind, and allot some time to solve them.

Hack #6: Taking Breaks and proper rest

How to get good marks in exam? You must take breaks between your study schedule to rejuvenate your mind and start preparation afresh every time.

• A good night’s sleep is vital, and your mind must always be at rest to ensure maximum efficiency.
• Studies show that students who get 6-8 hours of sleep before the exam get higher scores than those who do not.
• Stay away from distractions and negativity, and do what makes you happy and relaxed between your study sessions- listening to music, playing a spot, or just strolling in the park.

Hack #7: Giving mock tests

No matter what level of education you are at or what exam you are preparing for, giving mock tests and previous year question papers is a must. It helps you practice in real-time in an intuitive environment to understand what giving an actual exam would feel like. Also, this will help you acquire skills such as time management and ensure that you attempt the question paper in the best possible way.

While giving mock tests, remember to use a timer or stopwatch. Based on your experience giving mock tests, create an exam plan that you will use to take the actual exam.

Hack #8: Less cramming and more understanding of concepts

Again, we are focusing on the fact that cramming never solves any problem. Most students try to find shortcuts on how to learn quickly for exams. When you cram, you tend to remember an answer for a day or, at maximum, a week. But when you understand a concept, you can write an answer explaining the same for the next few years.

• You must be attentive in class and listen to what your mentor/teacher says.
• You can ask them questions if you have any doubts, and get complete clarity, especially on the most prominent subjects/concepts.
• Writing it down on paper is easy when you know and understand something.
• What you cram, however, may be distorted or not be able to shape up into the form of the best answer.

Read more: How To Study for Long Hours: Smart Study Habits and Tips

Hack #9: Managing time effectively

Effective time management is crucial for exam preparation. Balance study time with proper diet, rest, and physical activity for optimal results. If you have additional commitments like a part-time job, use time-management strategies such as creating schedules and prioritizing tasks to maximize your study time.

• Creating a “to-do” list
• Prioritizing important work
• Forming a schedule
• Budgeting your time
• Focusing on long-term goals
• Saying “no” to all distractions and unimportant activities, etc.

Hack #10: Maintaining proper nutrition

A healthy body and mind are crucial for effective exam preparation. Eating nutritious meals and staying hydrated boosts brain function and cognitive skills. Key foods like green leafy vegetables, berries, almonds, tea, and fatty fish enhance brain power and concentration, helping you prepare and perform better during exams. Avoid caffeine as it can have long-term negative effects.

Effective Study Planning and Time Management

Smart study planning and time management can greatly affect how well you prepare for exams. Organizing your study time properly instead of rushing through topics at the last minute will help you stay focused, reduce stress, and improve retention.

Create a Study Schedule

A well-structured study schedule keeps you on track and ensures you cover all subjects in time. Plan your study sessions by allocating specific time slots for each subject. Stick to your schedule and avoid distractions during study hours. A balanced routine prevents last-minute panic and improves productivity.

Prioritize Subjects and Topics

Not all subjects require the same amount of effort. Identify your strong and weak areas and focus on topics that need improvement. If a subject is challenging, dedicate extra time to it while ensuring you don’t neglect the others. Prioritizing topics helps you use your time effectively and gain confidence in difficult subjects.

Use Time Management Techniques

Studying for long hours without breaks can lead to burnout. Instead, try time management techniques like the Pomodoro Technique (study for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break) to maintain focus. The Eisenhower Matrix helps prioritize urgent and important tasks, making study sessions more efficient.

Avoid Last-Minute Cramming

Cramming the night before an exam can increase stress and reduce retention, making it harder to recall information when needed. Instead, focus on consistent revision over time. Regular practice and spaced repetition are key techniques that enhance long-term memory retention, ensuring that you remember concepts more effectively during exams.

If you’re wondering how to get good marks in exams, the answer lies in effective study planning and time management. By following a well-structured study routine, staying organized, and avoiding last-minute stress, you can prepare more efficiently and perform better on exam day.

Setting Up the Perfect Study Environment

Your study space has a big impact on how effectively you learn. Consider these tips for creating an environment conducive to focus and retention:

• Choose a Quiet, Well-Lit Space: Natural light is best, and avoid noisy or distracting areas.
• Organize Your Materials: Keep textbooks, notes, and stationery within reach to avoid interrupting your flow.
• Minimize Distractions: Turn off phone notifications, or use apps that block social media during study hours.
• Comfort is Key: Use a comfortable chair and desk at proper height to avoid physical strain.
• Personalize Wisely: Some students find motivating posters or calming plants helpful, but avoid clutter.

A well-organized study space can help you enter a productive mindset and maintain focus longer.

Motivation and Mindset: Staying Positive Throughout Your Preparation

Maintaining a positive mindset is essential to overcome challenges during your exam preparation. Here are ways to stay motivated and reduce anxiety:

• Set Realistic Goals: Break your syllabus into manageable chunks and celebrate small wins.
• Use Positive Affirmations: Remind yourself of your strengths and past successes.
• Practice Mindfulness or Meditation: Even 5-10 minutes daily can help reduce stress and improve focus.
• Avoid Negative Comparisons: Everyone learns at their own pace; focus on your progress.
• Seek Help When Needed: Don’t hesitate to talk to teachers, counselors, or friends if you feel overwhelmed.

A confident and calm mindset will enhance both your study efficiency and exam performance.

Optimizing Your Health for Better Exam Performance

Success in exams isn’t just about how much you study—it’s also about how well you care for your body and mind. To maximize your concentration and memory retention, ensure you:

• Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep every night. Sleep helps consolidate memories and improves focus during study and exam time.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can cause fatigue and reduce cognitive function.
• Eat Brain-Boosting Foods: Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like fish, walnuts), antioxidants (fruits, vegetables), and whole grains. Avoid heavy, greasy meals before studying or exams, as they can make you sluggish.
• Take Short Breaks: Physical movement, such as a quick walk or stretching, can refresh your mind and reduce stress.

You create the best foundation for practical study and exam performance by prioritizing your health.

Innovative Study Techniques to Retain Information

Studying isn’t just about reading textbooks and taking notes about understanding, remembering, and applying what you learn. Many students struggle with forgetting information right after studying, making revision feel like an endless cycle. But with the right study techniques, you can retain information more effectively and make learning easier. Here are some proven methods to boost memory and improve exam performance.

1. Use Active Learning Methods

Passive reading is one of the least effective ways to learn. Instead of just going through textbook pages, try active learning methods that engage your brain and improve recall.

Effective Active Learning Techniques:

• Mind Maps – Draw connections between concepts visually. This helps organize information in a way that’s easier to remember.
• Flashcards – Writing questions and answers on small cards forces you to recall key points quickly. Apps like Anki or Quizlet can also help.
• Self-Quizzing – Instead of passively reading, stop and ask yourself questions. If you struggle to recall an answer, revisit that topic.

Active learning forces your brain to retrieve information, strengthening memory and understanding.

2. The Feynman Technique: Teach to Learn

One of the best ways to test your understanding is to teach the concept to someone else. The Feynman Technique helps simplify complex topics by explaining them in simple words.

How to Use the Feynman Technique:

1. Pick a topic and explain it as if teaching a child.
2. Identify any areas where you struggle.
3. Go back to your notes or book and fill in knowledge gaps.
4. Repeat the process until you can explain the topic clearly.

You ensure deep learning rather than surface-level memorization by breaking down concepts into easy-to-understand explanations.

3. Spaced Repetition: Review Smartly, Not Repeatedly

Cramming everything the night before an exam might seem helpful, but it’s one of the least effective study habits. Spaced repetition helps you retain information long-term by revisiting topics at increasing intervals.

How to Use Spaced Repetition:

• Revise new topics within 24 hours of learning them.
• Revisit them after a few days, then after a week.
• Continue reviewing periodically to reinforce memory retention.

This method prevents forgetting and strengthens memory by gradually reinforcing knowledge.

4. Make Notes Effectively: Write to Remember

Simply copying from textbooks won’t help much. Effective note-taking helps in organizing and recalling information better.

Best Practices for Note-Taking:

• Summarize in your own words – This ensures you understand the material rather than just memorizing it.
• Use bullet points, color codes, and diagrams – These make notes visually appealing and easier to review.
• Highlight key points and formulas – Makes revising quicker before exams.

Well-structured notes become valuable revision tools instead of just pages of text.

5. Self-Study vs. Group Study: Find What Works for You To Get Good Marks In Exam

Some students prefer studying alone, while others learn better in groups. Understanding when to use each method can make a big difference.

Self-Study: Tips for exams

• Best for subjects requiring deep focus and concentration (like math or problem-solving).
• You can go at your own pace and focus on weak areas.

Group Study:

• It helps in discussing doubts and getting new perspectives.
• Great for subjects that require explanations and discussions (like history or literature).
• Teaching others strengthens your understanding.

Using a mix of both can provide the best learning experience.

6. Create a Distraction-Free Study Environment

Even the best study techniques won’t work if you’re constantly distracted. Find a quiet place to study where you can focus without interruptions.

Tips for Better Focus:

• Keep your phone away or use apps like “Forest” to block distractions.
• Listen to instrumental music or white noise if you find silence too dull.
• Take short breaks (like the Pomodoro Technique – study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break).

A structured environment improves focus, making study time more productive.

7. Relate Information to Real-Life Examples

Memorizing dry facts is tough, but connecting concepts to real-life examples makes them easier to remember.

How to Apply This Technique:

• Physics and Chemistry – Relate theories to things around you (e.g., how friction works when cycling).
• History – Think of historical events as real-life stories instead of just dates and facts.
• Mathematics – Apply formulas to practical situations, like budgeting or measurements.

When concepts feel relevant, they become easier to recall.

8. Practice, Practice, Practice!

Reading alone won’t help much—solving problems and practicing questions improves understanding and application.

Best Ways to Practice: How to study for exams

• Solve previous year’s question papers.
• Take mock tests under timed conditions.
• Revise incorrect answers and learn from mistakes.

Study Techniques that Boost Retention and Understanding

In addition to reading and note-taking, try these proven techniques:

• Spaced Repetition: Review information at increasing intervals to strengthen memory.
• Pomodoro Technique: Study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break to maintain focus and avoid burnout.
• Mind Mapping: Create visual maps linking concepts to improve understanding and recall.
• Active Recall: Test yourself on material instead of passive rereading.
• Teach What You Learn: Explaining concepts to others is a powerful way to reinforce knowledge.

Experiment with these techniques to find what suits your learning style best.

Leveraging Technology for Smarter Studying

Technology can be a powerful tool if used wisely during exam preparation:

• Use Educational Apps: Apps like Quizlet, Anki, and Khan Academy offer flashcards, quizzes, and video lessons.
• Watch Video Tutorials: Complex topics can become easier with visual explanations on YouTube or educational platforms.
• Online Practice Tests: Regularly take mock tests to familiarize yourself with exam patterns and timing.
• Stay Organized Digitally: Use apps like Google Calendar or Notion to track your study plan and deadlines.
• Avoid Multitasking: Limit usage of distracting apps or social media during study hours by using focus tools.

Smart use of technology can enhance your learning experience and keep you engaged.

How to Get Good Marks in Exam: Solving Previous Year Papers and Mock Tests

Practicing with past exam papers and mock tests is one of the most effective ways to prepare. It helps you understand exam patterns, improve speed, and boost confidence.

• Understanding Exam Patterns: Solving previous year’s papers gives you an idea of the types of questions, marking schemes, and most frequently asked topics. This allows you to focus on high-priority areas and prepare strategically.
• Time Management During the Exam: Mock tests help you practice answering questions under timed conditions, improving your time management. You’ll learn to divide your time between sections, preventing last-minute rushes.
• Analyzing Mistakes and Improving: After each practice test, review your mistakes carefully. Understand what went wrong and work on those areas. Keeping a mistake log helps you track progress and avoid repeating errors in the exam.

Power of Support: Involving Family and Friends

Your support system can significantly impact your exam preparation:

• Communicate Your Goals: Share your study schedule and goals with family to gain their understanding and encouragement.
• Study Groups: Collaborate with friends for group studies or doubt clearing.
• Seek Emotional Support: Talking about your challenges can relieve stress and build confidence.
• Avoid Negative Influences: Surround yourself with people who motivate and support your efforts.

Strong support networks help sustain motivation and provide balance during stressful times.

Exam Day Strategies

On exam day, it’s natural to feel nervous, but managing your stress can help you perform your best. Keep these tips in mind:

• Prepare Your Materials the Night Before: Keep your stationery, admit card, and water bottle ready to avoid last-minute panic.
• Arrive Early: Getting to the exam hall early helps you settle down and adjust to the environment.
• Read Instructions Carefully: Before starting, read the exam instructions and questions thoroughly to avoid careless errors.
• Time Management: Allocate time to each section/question based on marks and difficulty.
• Stay Positive: Use deep breathing or visualization techniques to stay calm and confident.
• Avoid Last-Minute Cramming: Trust your preparation and avoid overwhelming yourself with new material just before the exam.

Following these strategies will help you maintain focus and perform confidently.

Tips To Score Good Marks

Conclusion

Remember, getting good marks in an exam isn’t just about memorizing facts—it’s about preparing smartly, staying positive, and taking care of yourself throughout the journey. By combining effective study habits, a confident mindset, and the support of those around you, you can turn your goals into real achievements.

Exams are an important milestone, but they’re just one part of your learning adventure. Believe in your abilities, trust your preparation, and approach every test with calm and focus. With these strategies in hand, you’re not only ready to get good marks but to succeed in whatever you set your mind to. Good luck, you’ve got this!

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