FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The key is quality, not quantity.

• Ideally, aim for 2-3 hours of revision per day, especially if you’re in the early stages of your revision. In the weeks leading up to your exams, you may increase this to 4-6 hours, but don’t overdo it.

• Break your study time into manageable chunks: Use techniques like the Pomodoro Technique—study for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. This keeps your brain fresh and prevents burnout.

• Make every minute count: Focus on active study methods like self-testing, practicing past papers, and reviewing key concepts. Avoid passive activities like simply reading your notes without engaging with the material.

• Remember: It’s better to revise consistently every day than to cram all at once. You’ll retain more and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Balance is crucial to avoid burnout and stay productive.

• Create a schedule: Use a revision timetable to plan your study time around your classes and personal commitments. This way, you can prioritise your subjects and know when you’ll be free for social activities or relaxation.

• Set boundaries: Let your friends and family know when you're revising and when you're available. Being clear about your study times helps you create space for both work and socialising.

• Use your time wisely: You don't need to spend all day revising. Use any free time between classes, on the bus, or during lunch breaks to go over your notes or listen to educational podcasts. Small, focused bursts of revision add up.

• Take time for yourself: Schedule time for hobbies, socialising, and relaxing. It’s important to unwind and recharge so that you can stay focused when you do sit down to study.

It’s normal to hit a roadblock now and then. Here’s how to move past it:

• Take a break: If you find yourself getting frustrated or stuck, step away for a moment. Take a short break—go for a walk, grab a snack, or do something you enjoy. Sometimes, stepping away helps you return to the material with a fresh perspective.

• Break it down: If a particular topic or question is confusing, try to break it down into smaller chunks. Focus on understanding one part at a time rather than trying to figure everything out at once.

• Ask for help: Don’t be afraid to ask a teacher, tutor, or friend for help. You could also look for explanations on YouTube or educational websites like BBC Bitesize or Khan Academy.

• Use practice questions: Working through practice questions can sometimes help clarify where you’re going wrong and give you the confidence to move forward.

Motivation can be tough, but there are strategies to keep you on track:

• Set clear goals: Break your revision into manageable chunks and set specific, achievable goals. For example, "I will complete 20 maths questions" or "I will revise the causes of World War I." Checking off goals will give you a sense of accomplishment.

• Reward yourself: Use rewards to keep yourself motivated. For example, after a solid revision session, treat yourself to something small—like a favourite snack, an episode of a show, or a walk outside.

• Find inspiration: Watch motivational videos or read stories of people who have succeeded in their exams. Sometimes, hearing others’ experiences can keep you inspired and motivated.

• Stay positive: Focus on progress rather than perfection. If you’re feeling discouraged, remind yourself of how far you’ve come and the progress you’re making. Celebrate the small wins!

• Mix up your revision routine: Keep your revision fresh by using different methods. Switch between reading, writing, watching videos, or using interactive tools. A varied approach can keep you engaged and prevent boredom.

Improving your exam technique is just as important as revising the content. Here’s how to do it:

• Practice under exam conditions: Complete past papers under timed conditions to get used to the pressure of the exam. This will help you manage your time more effectively during the real exam.

• Read questions carefully: Make sure you read every question thoroughly before answering. Underline key words in the questions to ensure you understand what’s being asked.

• Plan your answers: For longer answers or essays, plan your response before you start writing. Jot down key points you want to include, so you can structure your answer logically.

• Focus on marking criteria: When practicing past papers, review the mark schemes carefully. Understand how marks are awarded for each question, and make sure you’re addressing all aspects of the question in your answers.

• Practice time management: During practice exams, work on allocating your time across questions. For example, if there are 3 sections in an exam, spend a set amount of time on each section. Don’t get stuck on any one question for too long.

• Stay calm during the exam: If you get stuck on a question during the exam, don’t panic. Skip it and come back to it later if you have time. Use your remaining time to tackle the questions you know well.