rote = learning from memory (thus memorising) and to all hsc students there is no magic formula for studying. Basically, you should study how long it takes you to learn and fully understand your course content. Be consistent in your study, don't leave things till the last minute and make sure you understand everything you read and hear. Remember, study hard, not smart. By that I mean don't try to meet a certain number of hours a day, just study the necessary time it takes you to learn and understand the content of your own course. Also keep a balance in your life, don't just study all day and all night, watch a bit of t.v. or play a little sport. Most importantly study the way you feel best, someone else's study routine may not work for you, do what's best for yourself. Personally I studied this way and got a uai of 98.25, so my advice is credible. But study the way and time that works best for you and assists you in understanding "all" of your course content.