Revision Timetables
These really can help. Teenagers may say they have a revision plan, but it sometimes amounts to no more than maths on Mondays, technology on Tuesdays and science on Saturdays.
Research shows that learning a little, but often, is best. So instead of devoting an entire evening to one subject, a lot more will stick if revision is planned in one or two hour slots.
Scheduled breaks are important because no one can concentrate properly for hours on end.
Help your child plan a revision timetable. Divide the after-school times into one-hour slots. Block out times for dinner, and build-in 15-minute breaks every hour or two.
Choose subject topics which can be revised in the one-hour slots. Don’t simply write “maths”.
Plan to revise topics on alternate days to test what has stuck and what needs more revision.
The thought of exams looming can be scary, but whether you are taking your GCSE’s or your A-Levels, if you give yourself plenty of time and stick to our top ten revision tips, you can take the stress out of exams and achieve success.
Space
If you want to be able to revise properly then it’s essential you find a suitable space to work in. create a clear and uncluttered area in your home, preferably somewhere that you won’t be disturbed. If revising at home is difficult ask your school or college if they can provide a suitable study area
Timetable
A revision timetable is an essential tool for exam preparation. If you give yourself plenty of time you will be able to include all the revision you need to do and leave some room for that all important ‘down time’.
Write
Have you ever tried to remember something by simply reading it over and over? It’s incredibly difficult to do. Use visual prompts to help you remember what you learn, such as taking notes, making mind maps or drawing doodles that remind you of key points in your learning.
Test
Look for revision questions online or write your own and test yourself as regularly as possible. Rope friends and family in to test you too so that you get used to recalling the information you need to know.
Listen
Recording your notes and listening back to them is a great way to cement your learning and you can do it when you’re out and about or when you go to bed at night.
Guides
There are lots of revision guides available, including online revision guides. Ask your teachers which ones they recommend and follow the advice that the guides give as they’ll be tailored to the exam you will take.
Prompts
Place prompts like sticky notes around your home so you can see them wherever you are. You may not think your prompts are sinking in but recalling them could help you find the answers you need in your exam.
Help
If you are struggling with revision or worried about your progress then talk to your teachers. They will be able to offer you help and advice about what you could do to improve and you won’t feel like you’re going it alone. If you’re struggling to get motivated then team up with a friend for revision sessions.
Past papers
If you want exam success then it’s essential that you practice with some past papers. This will help you get a feel for the structure of the exams you’re taking and you won’t feel so intimidated by the real thing. You can get past papers from your teacher or find them online.
Keep calm
Being stressed out won’t help you do well in exams. Give yourself plenty of time for revision so there’s no last minute panic and practice relaxation techniques like controlled breathing to help you keep calm. To get the most out of your revision it’s just as important to take breaks as it is to do lots of hard work, so don’t feel guilty about taking time off to relax – if you plan your revision properly you’ll have plenty of time to take a break.
