First of all, you have to understand the different learning styles (see below)
Visual (spatial). You prefer using pictures, images, and spatial understanding.
Aural (auditory-musical). You prefer using sound and music.
Verbal (linguistic). You prefer using words, both in speech and writing.
Physical (kinesthetic). You prefer using your body, hands and sense of touch.
Logical (mathematical). You prefer using logic, reasoning and systems.
Social (interpersonal). You prefer to learn in groups or with other people.
Solitary (intrapersonal). You prefer to work alone and use self-study.
You have to understand first what is the best stimuli for you to learn the topic
As a bonus I will give you a rather interesting but very helpful idea to ace your next test. I work at an online school, reviewing and reading math, science, history, spanish & french language, economics and political subjects pretty much on a daily basis.
The next time you sit down to study, have an audio recorder beside you, before you start your actual study, dictate the notes to the recorder and once your done, start reading the text while listening to the exact same words you just talked over the recorder earlier.
Its research proven that students significantly do better in retaining information if they are audio-visually stimulated while studying. This is especially true in any subjects that require a lot of memorization.
As for your exam, arming this style of study, lets see that mental block if it ever happens again
Good Luck!