Planning ahead is the key to good revision

Part of the secret to successful revision is planning ahead.

To get the most out of your revision, it needs to be methodical, orderly and well planned.

Below are some key tips to consider when starting your revision journey to success.

Start early

It’s really important to make revision preparations from an early date.

Preparation work may take some time to complete and might require input from your teachers.

This is much easier to achieve before exam leave starts.

But also, you shouldn’t be waiting for study leave to begin before you actually start revising.

Starting revision early is beneficial as it allows time for content to be revisited numerous times, a key factor in remembering information.

Understand your subject requirements

Part of your preparations should be making sure you understand what is required for each subject you are studying.

This can help ensure you are revising the right information and not wasting time on material that isn’t being assessed or isn’t worth many marks.

You should be familiar with the syllabus for each subject you are studying, it will outline all the learning that should have been done on your course, allowing you to identify any gaps in your knowledge.

Read our post about understanding your subject requirements.

Work out what type of learner you are

Spend some time identifying how you learn best, e.g. some people like to learn through doing (kinaesthetic learners), whilst others may prefer to listen to information being spoken (auditory learners).

By understanding your preferred learning styles you can tailor revision around your strengths and the techniques that suit you best.

Revision is a personal process so don’t be afraid to totally personalise how you study.

Read our post about working out what type of learner you are.

Create a revision timetable

You need to make every minute of revision count.

Creating a revision timetable is a great way to achieve this.

A timetable allows you to plan and prioritise your studies effectively, by taking the following factors into consideration:

• How much time you have until the exams
• How much total time is available for each subject
• Which topics need revising for each subject
• Prior commitments
• Breaks and rewards

A timetable gives your day structure and allows you to set targets and goals.

Waking up and thinking “What shall I revise today?” is not the right approach to studying.

Read our post about how to create a revision timetable.

Create a suitable study space

Where you choose to work can make a big difference to the effectiveness of your revision sessions.

As part of planning ahead, think about where you currently study and ask yourself is this really the best place to continue working and revising from?

Take some time to prepare the perfect study space.

When creating the perfect study space you should be considering:

• Noise levels
• Light
• Temperature
• Potential distractions and interruptions
• Clutter and space
• Equipment needed

Read our post for tips about how to create the perfect study space.

Make the most of study leave

It might seem ages away, but think about how you are going to utilise that gift of time in order to achieve the best results you can.

Study leave isn’t a holiday or a time to relax and take your foot off the gas.

So, other than studying, don’t be making too many commitments for that time period.

Use your revision timetable, stay healthy and motivated.

Read our post for tips about how to make the most of your study leave.