Revision Tips

What is revision? Revision is looking back at information that you have previously learnt.

How should I structure my time? You should break up your time into short blocks of about 25 minutes with a five minute break in between. This is known as the ‘Pomodoro Technique’. This is flexible though! You may find that it is more helpful to work for 45 minutes with a 15 minute break There are many free phone apps that you can download or just use a kitchen timer! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqBuh4HWu8U&t=38s

Plan!Plan!Plan! Create a revision table. It doesn’t need to be fancy and you can do it by hand or on the computer. Try using Revision Timetable Maker – https://getrevising.co.uk/planner It’s Free! Use colour to make it stand-out and don’t forget to pencil in time to relax!

Organising your revision Make a topic checklist – for each subject make a list of the major topics that you have covered Decide the order of the topics you are going to study. You do not have to revise the topics in the same order you learned them. Stick to your assigned revision times in the timetable you made. Work in an area with good light and few distractions – turn off the TV, phone or tablet! Keep the music volume low. Try working on difficult topics early, when your mind is still fresh.

Techniques People learn in many different ways. Try to find the best methods that work for you. One way that works for many people and is research backed is to use Mind Maps. Using colour and images are key. Other visual methods include flash cards, slides and flow charts. Try: www.goconqr.com Just highlighting text will not work! That is one of the least effective ways to revise.

Other proven methods: Create podcasts using your own written script Read your notes/book aloud while walking Teach another person the topic Outline and rewrite your notes by hand using your own words! Include colour, images, diagrams, using capital letters for key words The important part is to be actively thinking and use multiple senses. Just sitting passively reading and highlighting words will not help you to remember.

Reflection Every couple of weeks make sure to reflect on what is working for you and what isn’t. If you try a method a few times and it isn’t working – TRY SOMETHING NEW!