6 Tips on Revising for Exams

As GCSE time fast approaches, we thought we'd gather up six tips on revising for exams to help you tackle the nerves, focus your learning and feel more confident.

Good luck!

1) Know the syllabus

 

What are the key things you need to know? Having an idea what the exams are likely to focus on can help you to prepare and save you from trying to remember everything you've been taught.

Teachers can help in providing insight on what you’re supposed to know so you can set-up a more streamlined revision plan.

 

2) Get organised

 

Having a checklist and a timetable (whether you strictly follow it or not), can help you to get prepared and keep any panic at bay.

Breaking things down and giving each subject an allocated day can keep you on track and focus your learning.

 

3) Find a method that works for you

 

Do you find it easier to remember information when it's in bullet form on a flash card? Does using different coloured pens for different key points help? Maybe recording your notes in an audio format and listening back works better.

Either way, finding the method that best suits how you learn is a great way to start revising - you could find that a combination of these help you for different subjects.

 

4) Do past papers

 

Past papers can really help you to remember certain answers and train your brain into recognising what is being asked of you when questions are worded in slightly different ways.

These are usually done in class-time but you can get them online so you can do them in your own time or as part of your revision plan.

 

5) Take regular breaks

 

Scientific research has shown that taking regular breaks during revision gives the brain a higher chance of remembering the information you've just thrown at it. In a designated hour, try 50 minutes on and 10 minutes off.

In those breaks, do something completely different and once you've finished revising for the day, de-stress by watching television, going for a walk or catching up with mates - your nerves will thank you and your brain will enjoy the rest.

 

6) Relax

 

Passing exams isn't the be all and end all - not every success story started well academically. You can only do your best and there are always options for kick-starting your career once you've put your pen down in that last exam.

Take a deep breath, relax and try your best.