GSCE Revision Tips and Tricks
Revision strategies are as individual and unique as the learner; strategies that work for some, might not work for others. I personally have always studied and worked best with some mellow music playing at a low volume yet others can find any sort of noise distracting.
We all learn differently, we may be visual (seeing), tangible (doing) or auditory (hearing) learners or even a combination of these learning types.
The following are some tips and tricks that may work for you. This is by no means a definitive list of musts and by this age you are probably aware of what works for you in terms of a study environment and note making but you may find some fresh ideas to try that are suitable to your style of learning.
- Eat well before you study – have healthy, balanced meals which include plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and remember to stay hydrated. We can often fall into the trap of munching on sweets and other sugary products which will give you a short term boost but soon make you tired and less focused.
- Create a study timetable – This will give you a clear focus for each day, you will obviously need to look closely at the dates of your different exams and plan to study subjects accordingly. Ensure you schedule in regular breaks, taking time to:
- Exercise
- Read (for enjoyment!)
- Watch your favourite tv show or film
- Chat to a friend (not about study!)
- Get creative – bake, make or paint!
- Any other interest and hobbies
- Create a to-do list for each day – this along with your timetable will assist you in tracking your progress and is there anything more satisfying than ticking/crossing off tasks from a to-do list?!
- Study in a neat and quiet environment – a neat environment is far less distracting as is a quiet environment, however as mentioned previously, you may find playing some music helps you to study.
- Potential resources to assist with note-taking:
- Bright coloured highlighters to colour code key themes
- Large flipcharts can be a fun resource (you may like to pretend you are giving a presentation to your class)
- Flash cards – an oldie but a goodie if they work for you
- You could type up some notes into a PowerPoint presentation and present it to a family member
- Voice record notes and play them back
- Use speciality pens that work (and wipe off!) glass and mirrors.
- Social media/phone ban – ask someone to mind your phone or put it in another room during scheduled study times.
- Have a good night’s sleep – try not to stay up too late cramming. A good night’s sleep will keep you fresh and focussed for the day ahead.
Good luck and happy studying! Please remember that at the end of the day these are just exams and will not define you. Your wellbeing and mental heath are much more important and if at anytime you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed please reach out.
Brooke McClure – Lead Resource Teacher at Education Boutique, February 2020