Effective revision:
  1. Divide study time into timetabled chunks, so your revision has structure.
  2. Make notes in a way that fosters self-testing.
  3. Allow extra time for more difficult subjects, so you don’t end up cramming.
  4. Learn actively by making notes and testing your understanding as you revise.
  5. Practise past exam papers, so you know what to expect.
  6. Become familiar with mark allocations. That way you can focus your efforts on what matters most.
  7. Regularly review what you’ve learned so it sticks. Every two or three days in the week before an exam is good.
  8. Take regular short breaks. This will keep you fresh so you can revise longer without getting tired.
  9. When revising, periodically get up and move about. A little exercise will help you to concentrate.
  10. Get enough sleep, as this re-energises the brain.
During the exam:
  1. Read the whole paper thoroughly right at the start.
  2. Begin with easier questions. Answering these will give you confidence.
  3. Be strategic. Concentrating on questions that give the most marks makes sense.
  4. Don’t answer questions automatically. Make sure you understand what is really being asked. Identifying key words helps you do this.
  5. ‘Brainstorm’ the question by making notes about it.
  6. Leave time for proofreading, checking SPAG and final additions or changes.
  7. Take water into the exam room and drink frequently as this helps brain function.
  8. If you go blank, dropping your shoulders and breathing out slowly will help you stay calm and refocus.
  9. After the exam, reward yourself. You deserve it.
  10. Learn from each exam and apply this new knowledge to the next.