We asked them how they managed to stay top of the class, and this is what we learned.
Going through school in Nigeria is not the easiest thing in Nigeria, but there are tricks to it.
We spoke to a bunch of students and asked them all the things they did that ensured their success. These are the things they all have in common:
1. Consistency.
Most of them said they didn't study a lot at a time. They just read tiny chunks every day. So when they are done with school work for the day, they just spend some time revising the day's work.
2. How much can you really take in at a time?
It's quite common for students to chill, and the moment exam time tables are released, start to rush and take in a semester's work in two weeks. But guess what? You have a higher chance of retaining knowledge you acquired little by little over time. So now, you probably understand why that student who appears not to be panicking two weeks to exams still manages to pass.
3. Simplify.
When we asked high-flying students how they managed not to forget the things that they studied, they told us about this trick; simplifying. So this is what they'd d; they'll take something they were taught, and simplify it in terms that are more relateable and easier to understand. So let's say they learned something about the economy on a large scale, they'd simplify it on the scale of buying sugar from a local seller.
E.g. When demand for sugar is high, our sugar seller might feel the need to increase the price.
4. Continous Assessment goes a long way.
Now, this mostly involves following instructions. It's probably an assignment or a mini quiz. I'll explain. Let's assessment is 30 marks. You tidy up the assignments and tests, and probably land at about 25 marks, you know you're going into the exam hall to hustle, say a 50 over 70.
When you hit that, you get an A. Look who's happy now.
5. You need a good squad:
Now, there's no way a blacksmith is going to leave is going to smell like perfume, because he spends his days melting iron. Your squad is quite important. While you might have your play squad, you need that study squad. The guys you can always run to for help. The guys you bounce ideas around with and study with. It would only be sensible for you to assemble a squad who have strengths you lack.
6. Sleep.
Look, if you follow this plan, you might not need to burn this midnight candle very much. When you have a long-term plan, you might not need to shoot as much energy drinks and coffee into your system as you'd normally do.
7. Stay out of trouble.
Okay, this is definitely not textbook advice. But you might want to stay out of trouble as much as you can. Even if you're on the right, there's a strong probability that it will be costing you precious time you need.
I hope you give this a shot and try top implement. All the best.
