How I was able to achieve the top of my class in ATAR Math(and how you can do the same)

Hey ATAR Achievers, here is a post you want to remember.

Around 70% of all students pursuing ATAR have math included in their 4 primary subjects; chances are, you are one of them, as am I. Time and time again, I see my closest friends overcomplicate this subject, feeling overwhelmed and studying countless hours to only scrape a 50. I’m not blaming them, as I too, was also guilty of having done this, often feeling burnt out and lost. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. What if I told you that you don’t have to spend all night cramming for that one topic you still don’t understand and that you're able to study for shorter periods to achieve the results you desire? Sounds like a dream, doesn't it? Well, today I’ll be sharing to you exactly how I was able to scale from the bottom of my class, averaging 35%, to finishing with a 93% overall.

Step 1: Always be ahead of the class and stay ahead

The first step I took to score high was to get ahead of my class in terms of the content they were learning.

Review the content of the classes before you enter them, implement some practice questions if you can and skim over different topics. By trying to be in a position where, no matter what it is, you are ahead of your class and you have started doing practice questions or reviews on content that you have not previously covered, you are able to identify and fix mistakes earlier than those who have just started.

By following this step, you can also grasp a deeper understanding of the content, so when it does come up in an exam or a test, you can understand and execute the concept easily.

Step 2: Never leave work for later (it piles up faster than you expect)

One of the biggest mistakes I have seen students make is underestimating the pace at which unfinished work can accumulate.

Leaving just one task incomplete may seem harmless, but over time, it snowballs into an overwhelming backlog. To avoid this, adopt the "do it now" mindset.

After each class, dedicate a short amount of time to revising the content covered that day. Complete all assigned homework or exercises while the material is still fresh in your mind. By tackling your work immediately, you’ll retain information better, reduce the need for last-minute cramming, and free up time to focus on challenging topics.

Use tools like a task manager or a simple checklist to keep track of what needs to be done and check it off as soon as you’ve completed it. Don't allow even a single task to spill over to the next day without a valid reason.

Step 3: Plan your study schedule at the start of the week/month

The third step I followed was to plan my week ahead every Sunday night for the following week.

I know what you are thinking; why not just make a schedule that you repeat over and over again? Why can’t I make just one and stick to it forever? The problem with this approach is, that even though it is tailored to your needs at the time, it does not allow you to change based on if your schedule or needs are changed.

By experimenting with different schedules, you are also able to find your peak productivity windows where you are able to study more efficiently while not getting bored or burnt out with your current routine.

Step 4: Prioritise active study techniques

By far, the most important step that I always witness peers ignore is prioritising active study techniques.

Now you might be confused, but there are 2 main types of studying: Passive studying and Active studying.

The difference?

Passive study involves methods where learners engage with the material in a less interactive way, relying more on repetition than understanding. Active studying involves strategies that require you to engage deeply with the material. These methods stimulate critical thinking, encourage problem-solving, and often involve interaction with the content, either mentally or physically.

Think of it this way: Would you be able to grasp a better understanding of the topic if you were able to teach it to someone by explaining what you know or if you highlighted it out of a textbook? Chances are, you chose the former.

Passive study methods like re-reading notes or highlighting textbooks might feel productive but don’t truly reinforce your learning. However, by shifting to active study techniques that engage your brain, you can deepen your understanding of the material and improve long-term memory retention.

Conclusion: Well, that's it.

Now, you too know how you can excel in your course. Remember, consistency is key, and rewards are just as important. Don't burn yourself out stressing about all the upcoming tests and always ask your teachers for assistance if you need it. If you don't have supportive teachers (we've all been there) then surf the internet and and ask a friend or another teacher to help you. You got this!

Thank you for taking the time to read this

I'll be posting more content just like these tips in case anyone needs more support with achieving their desired results.

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