Cramming is one of the least effective ways to learn a subject. Research has found that many students cannot recall much information after a cram session. They have trained their mind to recite the material without developing a deeper understanding. This undermines the learning process.

Is cramming better than nothing?

Cramming rarely results in long-term retention of material, meaning that future courses, which build on past concepts, will be more difficult: Cramming is certainly better than nothing, and can be initially successful, garnering the grade your child is looking for on their exam.

Is last minute studying effective?

The last 24 hours before an exam can be very stressful. You may be worrying that you have not done enough revision, or that what you do now will be all that you can remember. However, it can also be an extremely useful period for consolidation, and should therefore be used wisely.