Revision can feel overwhelming, especially with exams or deadlines approaching. However, with the right techniques and mindset, you can make your revision more efficient and less stressful. Below are some practical revision tips to help you retain information, stay organised, and perform to the best of your ability.
Start Early and Plan Ahead
One of the most important aspects of revision is time management. Procrastination may seem tempting, but it can lead to unnecessary stress. If you start revising well ahead of your exams or deadlines you will give yourself ample time to cover all the material. Break your revision into manageable chunks and create a study timetable that allocates time for each subject or topic. This will keep you on track and avoid cramming at the last minute.
Use Active Recall
Active recall is a powerful revision method that involves testing yourself on the material you’ve learned, rather than the passive re-reading of notes. The idea is to bring forth the information needed from memory, which strengthens your understanding and retention. You can use flashcards, quizzes, or simply write down everything you remember about a topic and then compare it with your notes. The more actively you engage with the material, the better you’ll remember it.
Practising Past Papers
Practising with past papers gives you a sense of the exam format, the types of questions you may face, and how much time you should allocate to each section. It’s also an excellent way to identify any apparent gaps in your knowledge. As you work through past papers, try to simulate exam conditions by setting a timer and avoiding distractions. Review your answers afterward to understand where you went wrong and improve. Practice makes perfect!
Teach What You’ve Learned
Teaching others is an effective way to consolidate your own understanding. Once you feel confident with a topic, try explaining it to someone else, whether it’s a friend, family member, or even just out loud to yourself. If you can teach a concept clearly, it’s a sign that you truly understand it. If you struggle, it indicates areas where you need more practice or clarity in your descriptions and answers.
Use Varied Revision Techniques
Everyone has their preferred study methods, but using a variety of revision techniques can help reinforce your learning. Here are a few to try –
Mind maps: Create visual diagrams to connect key concepts and help you see the bigger picture.
Spaced repetition: Spread out your review of material over time to reinforce long-term retention.
Summarising: Write brief summaries of each topic in your own words. This helps to distill the essential points.
Mixing up your techniques can prevent revision from becoming monotonous and keep your brain engaged.
Take Regular Breaks
Studies show that taking regular breaks can actually improve focus and productivity. The Pomodoro Technique, for example, suggests working for 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break. After four work sessions, take a longer break of 15–30 minutes. Breaks give your brain a chance to rest and process information, making your revision sessions more effective.
Stay Organised and Minimise Distractions
Organise your study materials by topic or subject and keep your revision space clean and free from distractions. Turn off notifications on your phone, close extra tabs on your computer, and create an environment that promotes focus. A tidy, distraction-free space can help you stay on task and retain more information.
Stay Positive and Look After Yourself
Revision can be stressful, but maintaining a positive mindset is crucial. Remind yourself that revision is a process, and you’re gradually building knowledge. Be kind to yourself – take care of your physical and mental health by getting enough sleep, eating balanced proper meals, and by staying active. A healthy body leads to a sharper mind.
Happy studying!
Bath Academy offers Revision Support during Holiday Periods for those who need additional support.
Please contact the Academy on 01225 334577 or via: revision@bathacademy.co.uk for further details.