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SACE Chemistry is known for being content-heavy, requiring strong conceptual understanding, precise terminology and plenty of exam practice. Here are some study tips to help you master the content and prepare for assessments.
What score did you achieve?
I achieved 19.7/20 (A+) in SACE Stage 2 Chemistry. I received A+ grades for all my folio work (20%) and practical investigations/SATs (50%), and an A for my final exam (30%).
How would you advise students to organize their notes?
Based on my experience, I would recommend not spending too much time making aesthetic notes. Instead, focus on quickly summarising the content covered in class, revisiting key concepts and ensuring you have all the information you need for revision. I personally found it helpful to organise my notes into a binder for each topic, with separate sections for each subtopic. This made it much easier to locate information, review content throughout the year and revise efficiently before tests and exams.
What is your advice for SACs?
For Chemistry specifically, I found that active recall and spaced repetition were the most effective study techniques, particularly because the subject is so content-heavy. After finalising my notes for each topic, I created detailed flashcards using Anki to memorise key concepts, definitions, formulas and terminology. I made sure I could confidently recall the content before moving on to practice tests and past papers.
I would then complete as many practice and past tests as possible. Knowing the content beforehand helped me focus on applying my knowledge and improving how I structured my answers. I also created additional Anki cards for questions I struggled with, particularly those involving difficult concepts or specific wording needed to achieve full marks. If I had extra time, I would redo previously completed past tests to reinforce my understanding and ensure I could confidently answer questions I had struggled with initially.
What is your advice for exams?
When preparing for my Chemistry exam, I started by revisiting each topic, particularly Topics 1 and 2, which I had completed earlier in the year. I completed individual topic tests for Topics 1,2,3,4 to identify my weaker areas and ensure I had a solid understanding of each topic before attempting full practice exams. I also dedicated specific revision sessions to Science as a Human Endeavour (SHE) questions and practical investigation questions, as these require a different approach to standard content-based questions.
Once I was confident with the individual topics, I completed as many past exams as possible, working through papers from 2000–2024 under timed conditions. I also created a revision timetable to keep myself organised and ensure I covered everything before the exam. I found that completing a large number of practice exams significantly improved my confidence, time management and ability to recognise different question types. The more questions I practised, the more familiar I became with the marking requirements and the specific terminology needed to achieve full marks. I would also recommend carefully reviewing mistakes after every practice exam rather than simply moving on to the next one.
How did you study? What study techniques did you use?
My main study techniques were active recall, spaced repetition and practice questions. I used Anki to create flashcards for each topic and consistently reviewed them throughout the year rather than leaving revision until the last minute. I found this particularly useful for memorising Chemistry terminology, definitions, formulas and key concepts.
I also prioritised understanding concepts rather than simply memorising information. Once I understood the content, I applied it through practice questions and past papers, carefully reviewing my mistakes and revisiting areas I found difficult. Another technique I found extremely helpful was teaching my friends or taking turns teaching each other different concepts. Being able to explain complex Chemistry concepts in simple terms and answer any questions my friends had really helped solidify my understanding. I found that if I struggled to explain something clearly, it usually meant I needed to revisit that concept and strengthen my understanding.
My biggest piece of advice is to study consistently throughout the year rather than cramming before assessments. Keeping up with content after each lesson makes revision much more manageable and reduces stress during exam periods. I would also encourage students to learn from their mistakes, practise applying their knowledge and become familiar with the marking guidelines, as understanding what examiners are looking for can make a significant difference to their results.
Do you have any resources that you used?
I would highly recommend Anki for flashcards and spaced repetition, particularly for memorising the large amount of content in Chemistry. I also used the SASTA Chemistry Revision Guide for additional practice questions and access to past exam papers.
In addition, I searched online for extra exam-style questions on specific topics I found challenging. I would recommend using a combination of flashcards, revision guides, practice questions and past exams rather than relying on just one resource. The official SACE subject outline and past examination papers are also useful for understanding the course requirements and familiarising yourself with the style of questions you may encounter.
How did you balance study with the rest of your life during Year 12?
I found that staying organised and maintaining a consistent routine were essential for balancing study with the rest of my life. I created a revision timetable that helped me stay on track without becoming too overwhelming, making sure to allocate time for both studying and activities outside of school. I would strongly encourage students to continue participating in extracurricular activities and making time for things they enjoy. For me, going to the gym every night was a great way to switch off from schoolwork, relieve stress and avoid burnout. Having time when I was not thinking about tests or exams helped me return to studying feeling refreshed and focused.
I also found that studying consistently throughout the year made a huge difference, as it prevented me from having to cram large amounts of content before assessments. My biggest advice is to find a routine that works for you, prioritise your wellbeing and remember that taking breaks is just as important as studying.
Anything else you would like to add
One of the most important lessons I learnt throughout Year 12 was that studying effectively is much more important than simply studying for long hours. It is easy to spend hours making notes or highlighting textbooks, but these activities are not always the most effective ways to retain information. Focus on techniques that actively test your understanding, such as flashcards, practice questions and explaining concepts in your own words.
I would also encourage students not to become discouraged by difficult topics or disappointing results. Use every assessment as an opportunity to identify areas for improvement and adjust your study strategies accordingly. Consistency, perseverance and learning from your mistakes are key to achieving your goals. Most importantly, trust the work you put in throughout the year and remember to look after yourself along the way.
