While you may have an exam revision technique that you’ve used for years, you might also be making some mistakes that are harming your ability to get the most out of your studying. Some of the things that you should try to avoid when revising range from relying too much on cramming, through to not making use of apps and other revision aids, and not giving yourself enough breaks and time to digest information. Avoiding these mistakes, and more, can help you to vary your revision routines.
1 – Cramming
There is an argument to be made that cramming can be helpful in some situations; exams that have a lot of multiple choice questions might, for example, be made easier if you’ve taken in a lot of basic information the night before. However, the stress of cramming can make it much harder to concentrate on the day of an exam, and can end up causing more harm than good. Instead, focus on spreading your revision over a longer time period to give yourself the chance to gradually absorb important information.
2 – Not Making Use of Revision Apps
As well as your notes and textbooks, it’s important to take advantage of the wide range of revision apps now available for smartphones, tablets, and computers; variety is crucial to successful revision, whereby you can sample the same information from different perspectives. Popular apps to check out include Last Minute Revision Flashcards, School Revision App, and free apps for GCSE and A Level exams that are specific to modules and subjects.
3 – Not Breaking Up Your Time Properly
You can improve your revision technique and capacity for knowledge by moderating your time and breaking up your revision into short bursts; try to avoid the temptation to rush through your revision, and instead give your brain plenty of time to let new information sink in. Spending a few hours revising, taking a break for an hour, and then testing yourself by writing out what you know about a subject can test your ability to absorb exam information.
4 – Not Getting Enough Exercise and a Healthy Diet
Shutting yourself away in a room with notes and a computer will start to wear you down after a while. In this context, it’s important to stick to a regular exercise and diet routine when revising; this can involve going out for long walks, cycle rides, runs, and to the gym to clear your mind and fight exam stress. Moreover, avoiding high levels of caffeine, and eating three meals a day will help you to keep yourself focused and alert when revising.
5 – Not Getting Outside Help
Exam revision can be isolating, and especially so when you’re struggling to get your head around a subject. It’s important to speak to your family, friends and school or college about any problems, and to get revision advice. Asking someone to test you on your knowledge can help you to boost your confidence, even opting for last minute revision sessions offered in colleges as of like Lansdowne Independent College can give you a better idea of what you still need to do before an exam.
Photo Credit: Flickr/Craig Sunter
