It is critical that you have a detailed and realistic revision plan so that you know what you should be doing and when. Furthermore, leisure time is essential to provide a break from revision. A timetable will make sure that you don’t get into a panic. These are useful and effective tools that can help exam preparation. Some students prefer A4 sized daily or weekly timetables whilst others prefer larger wall sized charts that cover a month long period. Whatever the preference timetable templates can be downloaded above: Tips for students when making a revision timetable include:

• When compiling a schedule try to be as realistic as possible. Do not try to overburden your day with an agenda that you have no real chance of completing.

• Make a list of the subjects that you need to revise for between now and your exams.

• Work out which subjects have the most content that needs to be revised.

• Concentrate on those specific topics or modules that you are weak on (understanding your progress information and data is vital in this regard).

• Break down major revision subjects into smaller parts, this can help you make your studying more precise.

• Ensure that you include break times during the day, these are important to help you unwind and to make sure you don’t burn yourself out.

• Work out when you ‘study best’, for instance some people are able to concentrate better in the morning. Then use these times to study those topics that require the most effort and energy.

• Do not leave your most difficult or hardest subjects till the end of the day. Instead try to get these out of the way early on.

• After completing a revision period cross it off from your timetable. This will help to instil a sense of accomplishment.

• At the end of each week assess your performance and change your plans accordingly.

• Consider using different coloured pens to highlight specific classes or rank subjects according to importance. However if you feel you may be changing things around then use a simple pencil.

• Keep your timetable flexible and be ready to change it if circumstances change.

• Try not to spend the whole day revising one subject.

• Most experts suggest studying in slots of 45 minutes and then taking a break before your next session.