Let’s face it—memorizing the provisions of the Muslim Code (PD 1083) can feel overwhelming, but with the right memory hacks, you’ll not only retain them but also recall them effortlessly when it counts.
When it comes to memorization, especially for something as detailed as the Muslim Code, mnemonics are a game-changer.
They turn complex provisions into bite-sized, memorable chunks, making recall during study sessions and the exam a breeze.
In this post, I’ll share with you the very mnemonics that helped me as I prepared for the Shari‘ah Bar Exam.
Let’s dive in—and don’t forget to personalize them for your own learning style!
Why Mnemonics Work
Why do mnemonics work, by the way? Memory thrives on patterns, associations, and creativity. Mnemonics capitalize on this by linking dry legal text to something more relatable, like acronyms or phrases. For example:
CLAW for the essential requisites of marriage: Consent, Legal capacity, Acceptance, and Wali’s consent.
FITTING for the types of divorce: Faskh, Ila, Talaq, Tafwid, Injurious desertion, Nikah annulment, and Ghul’ (Khula‘).
These are like mental shortcuts, helping you access detailed information faster and with less effort.
Personal Tips for Using Mnemonics
Here are my personal tips:
1. Personalize the Acronyms: If a mnemonic doesn’t click right away, tweak it. Make it funny, meaningful, or memorable to you.
2. Visualize: Pair the mnemonic with an image or a story. For example, imagine a CAFÉ when recalling prohibited degrees of marriage (Consanguinity, Affinity, Fosterage, Exceptions). Picture relatives drinking coffee at the table while some seats are off-limits.
3. Practice Active Recall: Test yourself regularly. Say the mnemonic, then expand on what each letter stands for without looking.
A Few Mnemonics to Remember
Here are some of the most effective mnemonics I used and their applications:
• Article 15: Essential Requisites of Marriage (CLAW)
Mnemonic: Consent, Legal capacity, Acceptance, Wali’s consent.
Visualize a claw marking a marriage contract, symbolizing its essential requirements.
• Article 27: Polygamy (NEED)
Mnemonic: Number of wives (limited to four), Equal treatment, Economic capability, Declaration to court (if needed).
Tip: Think of NEED as a checklist a husband must fulfill to meet the conditions of polygamy.
• Article 87: Grounds for Succession Rights (FILM)
Mnemonic: Faithful adherence to Islam, Immediate family, Legitimate claims, Marriage connection.
Story: Imagine watching a movie (FILM) about a family disputing inheritance in court.
You want more?
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Mansoor Limba, “Cracking the Shari‘ah Code: Insider Tips and Tricks for Super Busy Professionals to Pass the Shari‘ah Bar Exam.” ElziStyle Bookshop, 2025.
Order your copy now:
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