Revising for exams might feel overwhelming at first, but allowing yourself enough time to explore every topic will help you to feel more prepared. Below I discuss my top tips for revising for your exams…
1. Find out how you learn
Do you know your preferred revision style? I found taking the VARK questionnaire (Visual, Auditory, Read, Kinaesthetic) was really helpful. From this, I found that I preferred to learn visually, so highlighting and colour-coding meant that I was able to retain information for longer periods of time.
I also found that using YouTube videos discussing topics I was revising helped for me to learn using auditory techniques. There may also be unique ways to revise specific topics, such as with a song.
2. Flashcards
Flashcards are a really useful revision technique for active recall. When creating flashcards, I prefer for them to be colourful and categorised into different topic areas. When I was revising for my exams in sixth form, I liked to create flashcards with one side being the question and the flipside being the answer. This meant that I was able to ask my friends and family to help me revise. Bonus points if you do this with somebody on the same course as you because you will both be benefitting!
3. Mind maps
A great technique for revising is to write a topic name in the middle of an A3 piece of paper. Next, write down all the information on the topic that you can recall (without looking at your notes/textbooks). Afterwards, grab a different coloured pen and write down all the information that you missed off (you can look at your textbooks here). This way you know exactly what information you need to revise the most!
4. Plan in advance – don’t leave it until the last minute
Planning your days of revision can really help to maintain a good schedule (and to not overwork yourself). I recommend this because keeping a revision schedule will help you to cover all the required topics in sufficient detail.
5. Seek a calm environment
Revising in a busy, overwhelming environment will probably make it difficult for you to concentrate. Grab yourself a drink, your favourite snack (as a reward for your hard work), and find yourself a quiet place to settle down and revise. You could even try new environments if you get bored – perhaps a park, coffee shop or library?
Revising might sometimes feel like a lot of effort and you may sometimes feel overwhelmed. Always remember that your mental health is the main priority. Try to be as prepared as possible for all your exams, and feel comfort in the fact that you tried your absolute best – nothing more can be asked of you. No matter the result, you should be so proud of yourself. Finally, I wish you the best of luck for any of your past or present exams – I’m sure you will be amazing!
Get more tips on revising for exams from current York students.
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