Revision tips
We're not going to pretend that revising for exams is easy or enjoyable. But if you put in the effort, the rewards will be obvious when it comes to exam time and you will feel great in the knowledge that you gave it your best shot.
Here are some tips to help you with your revision:
1. Make a revision schedule
It might be worth scheduling in time to revise the subjects you find most difficult first so that you can dedicate more time to building up confidence in these subjects before you move on to others. Allow flexibility in your schedule so that if anything unexpected crops up or you need additional breaks you have planned for it.
2. Start early
Don't leave it to the last minute to give yourself the best chance you can. Don't cram in any additional revising the night before and certainly not immediately before the exam. You want to go into the exam with a clear head.
3. Chunk it up
Try to revise in 30 to 40 minute sessions with 10 to 15 minute breaks in-between. This way you will understand more and be much more motivated in each revision session
4. Set realistic goals
Set goals that are achievable. Break down large subjects into smaller topics and aim to complete a small chunk each time.
5. Be creative
Some people find it easier to remember information if they use a visual approach, rather than taking notes. Use mind maps or spider diagrams, draw pictures, highlight key words in different colours and use word association techniques.
6. Eat well
Try not to rely on energy drinks and sugary foods as this will give you a short boost but will eventually make you feel much more tired. Instead drink plenty of water and stick to healthy foods.
7. Revise with a friend
If you are revising with a friend make sure you are being productive and staying focused. Brainstorm and test each other by asking questions and talking about the subject you are studying.
8. If you get stuck, ask for help
If you are having trouble understanding a particular topic or are unsure how to answer a question that may come up on the exam, make a note of it and ask your teacher. It may be that other students are having difficulty with this as well.
9. Test yourself
Every now and then when you feel confident in a subject, test yourself, or ask someone else to test you. Make a note to go over anything you could not answer again.
10. Visualise your goal
Before each revision session, visualise finishing the exam and how good you will feel having put in lots of effort leading up to it and how proud your family and friends will be.
