Step 1: Give yourself enough time.
Aim to start your revision 3-4 months before your exams. Starting early gives you the time to go over everything without feeling rushed.
The earlier you start, the more relaxed you’ll feel as your exams approach, and the better you’ll be able to retain the information.
Step 2: Organise by subject
Plan your time around the subjects you need to focus on.
Break your time into blocks for each subject. If you have multiple subjects, it’s important to divide your revision time so you cover them all. Each subject should have a dedicated slot in your timetable.
Prioritise subjects based on their exam dates and difficulty. For example, if a subject is more challenging for you, give it more time in your timetable. Also, consider when each exam is scheduled and give yourself extra time to review subjects coming up first.
Step 3: Identify weak areas
Target areas where you need the most improvement.
Review your past assessments and feedback to identify which topics you struggled with.
Focus more time on these weak areas and spend less time on things you’re already confident in.
Tip: If you’re not sure what these are, ask your teachers or refer to your subject PLC.
Step 4: Include breaks
Breaks are essential to keep you focused and avoid burnout.
Schedule regular breaks every 45-60 minutes of revision time. Use the break to stretch, walk around, grab a snack, or relax.
Breaks help keep your mind fresh and improve productivity. You’ll retain information better when you don’t overwork yourself.
Step 5: Use the Pomodoro technique
A smart way to manage your study time.
The Pomodoro Technique is a popular time management method. It involves revising for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break. After 4 sessions, take a longer break of about 15-30 minutes.
This technique helps maintain focus and productivity. The key is balancing intense revision with short, refreshing breaks.
Step 6: Weekly review
Evaluate your progress every week.
At the end of each week, take time to review what you’ve revised. This helps reinforce the material and ensures you’re on track.
Identify areas where you need more work and adjust your timetable accordingly. This ensures that no topics are left behind, and you can focus on areas that still need improvement.
To help you get started, here’s a revision timetable template that you can customise for your own subjects.
This template will help you plan your revision sessions, track your progress, and stay organised. You can adjust it weekly to make sure you’re on top of your revision.
Stick to your plan: The most important part is consistency. If you stick to your timetable, you’ll make steady progress and feel more in control of your revision.
Track your progress: Keep track of your goals and achievements. Celebrate small wins to stay motivated.
Don’t forget to rest: Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and time to recharge. Well-rested minds absorb information better!