Address Knowledge Gaps
Uncertainty increases student stress and anxiety, which is why it can be helpful to divide your revision in two: focussing less on what you already know, and more on what you know you don’t know. That is, it’s important to address the knowledge gaps you have for any subject before proceeding onto writing mocks/past papers. This will put you in the best position for being able to knowledgably answer a wider array of questions.
Create a Realistic Revision Schedule
The human brain’s capacity for storing information is amazing, but it can only do so much! It’s necessary to work with rather than against your normal capabilities. If you can only focus for an hour at a time, don’t try to do three hours in one go. Create a realistic revision schedule which seeks to minimize distractions rather than maximize studying (not that maximization is not important, but there’s no point scheduling in five hours of non-stop revision and failing to do that. It’s much better to do four one-hour blocks with fifteen-minute breaks in between).
Personalise Your Revision Style
As with revision schedules, the main goal is to minimize distractions while studying, thus improving the quality of the time you spend revising, which is not necessarily the same as increasing the quantity of the time spent in revision. As such, you need to work in a manner that fits you best. For some, that’s alone and in silence, for others listening to music or perhaps with a friend. Whatever helps you to maximize your focus is best, just make sure to avoid distractions (so turn off your notifications, close your browser, and wait until your break to check your messages).
Write Things Out
One of the best ways to master material is to begin by writing it out in your own handwriting. This is more effective than typing it because it requires more intentional and specific mental processes. This will help you to internalise information and can likewise prime the pump for memorizing quotes, equations, and more.
It’s Never too Late to Ask
If there is something that you do not understand remedy it by asking a friend, parent, teacher, or even googling it. Hoping that something you don’t understand simply won’t come up on your exam is not the best way to prepare.
Utilise Past Papers
Reviewing past exam papers will help you to become familiar with both the style, layout, and approach of the exam. Just as importantly, research the mark schemes available for past papers, as these are just as helpful in briefing you on what is expected and how best to succeed.
Short Breaks are Important
Exam revision is neither a sprint nor a marathon. It’s a campaign. For every unit of studying you do, it’s important to have a short break so you can regain your focus and deploy your energies once more. If you’re working in hour long blocks, we recommend a ten-minute break in between sessions. Once you’ve completed two or three of these sessions, reward yourself with a twenty-minute break. The important thing is not to exhaust yourself or your mind in the first few hours of revision.
When you take a break, we recommend moving about and leaving the room. This will not only provide you with a bit of fresh energy but will help to maintain the study atmosphere that you have created in your revision space.
Don’t Forget to Eat, Sleep, and Exercise
The more you study the more your body will need the benefits of healthy eating, sleeping, and exercising. Don’t sacrifice these vital activities on the altar of studying. Instead, work them into your revision schedule, making sure that you maintain healthy habits, as these are not merely important in themselves, but are essential for scoring high marks on any exam.
Contact Think Tutors
Our team of industry leading tutors are expertly equipped to help maximize your potential. We can work with you on both a long- and short-term basis providing assistance, coaching, and revision guidance with a view to ensuring your academic success.