It definitely differs from person to person.
Here's some methods:
>
http://www.answers.com/mnemonic&r=67
> Acronyms.
> Making notes as short and succinct as POSSIBLE.
> Looking at a syllabus dot-point and writing down everything you know from it in a time-limit.
> Typing notes and writing them out again.
> Post-it notes on the walls.
> Verbal discussions (you need someone to ask you a question and then you talk to them, EXPLAINING your answer).
> Doing past papers, under EXAM conditions and getting your teacher to mark it and to give feedback. This is important for EXAM TECHNIQUE.
> Reading. Reading. Reading.
> For questions with calculations etc (if applicable to you) physically write down in red pen in block letters the silly-mistakes you tend to make next to where you make them (if applicable
).
> Re-reading english texts.
The best piece of advice I can give is TRYING to relate the content and skills to YOUR LIFE. See where it applies to your life journey and make it interesting! I know for a fact the english texts contain themes SO applicable to today's society (e.g. racism, sexism, human-nature, religion etc etc).
And in the end, moderating yourself. Going overboard tends to make people burnt out.
Continue to work hard, but reward yourself for doing so. Don't stop those little natural highs (e.g. that weekly chocolate bar or that daily myspace view (haha)) just cause you feel guilty you may not feel as if you've studied enough for the HSC. The HSC is a MEANS, not the end.