Ultimate guide to effective revision for exams

How to create a winning revision plan

• Structure your study time

Making a structured revision plan will help you use your time effectively, enabling you to allocate time for each subject and make sure you cover everything needed. It helps you spend more time on the topics you find difficult and avoid cramming at the last minute.

• Set realistic revision goals

Setting clear and realistic goals is important to help you stay focused and motivated. Begin by finding areas that need the most attention and set small, achievable objectives for each revision session. For example, aim to complete one topic or chapter in each session to break down your tasks.

• Use time management techniques

Managing your time effectively is the basis of a successful revision plan. Use techniques such as the Pomodoro technique, where you work for 25-minutes then take a five-minute break; this helps you keep focused and productive. Organise your revision sessions and breaks to provide you with a good balance of hard work and rest.

Tools like the Pomodoro technique can help you to keep focused and productive.

Best revision techniques for different learning styles

How to stay motivated and focused while revising

• Overcoming procrastination and distractions

Procrastination can be a big issue during revision – it’s so easy to get distracted. Try the two-minute rule: commit to working for just two minutes and then take a break. Often, starting is the hardest part, but once you begin you’ll be more likely to continue. Create a study space that minimises distractions – turn off your phone or revise in a quiet area.

• Setting up your study area

Your study environment can really affect your ability to focus. Choose a space that’s free from distractions, such as a quiet room or library, and put your phone on silent! Keep your study area organised and free from clutter. Make sure you have everything you need – laptop, notes, stationery – so you don’t waste time searching for materials during study sessions.

Treat yourself to a short break, a snack or a fun activity to help you recharge and stay focused for the next session.

How long should you revise each day?

• Recommended study durations

The ideal amount of time to spend on revision varies from person to person, but it’s important to be consistent. Aim for two to three hours of focused study each day. Spread out your revision sessions over a few weeks rather than cramming it all into the night before. This will help you retain information better and reduce stress.

• Best times of day to revise

The time of day you study really matters. For most people, the early morning or late afternoon are ideal times for focused revision as this is when your brain is more alert and receptive to new information. Avoid long late-night sessions as these can affect how well the information sticks in your memory.

• Balancing revision with relaxation

Remember, rest is just as important as studying. Make sure you get enough sleep and take time to relax in between revision sessions. Overworking can lead to burnout and you won’t be as productive. Scheduling time for relaxation will help your brain process the information you’ve studied and hold on to it better.

Creating a personalised revision timetable

• Building your revision schedule

Start by making a timetable that breaks down your revision into manageable chunks. Allocate time for each subject and prioritise topics you find difficult. Be realistic with the time you set aside for each task and make sure you have breaks scheduled in. And while the focus is on your revision now, being aware of what happens on exam results day can help you feel better prepared later on.

• Tools and apps

There are several tools and apps available to help you create and stick to your revision timetable. Apps like Google Calendar, Trello or MyStudyLife help you to organise tasks, set reminders and track your progress. Physical planners or printed timetables can also be helpful for those who prefer to get hands-on.

• Examples and templates

If you’re unsure where to start, you can find loads of free study timetable templates online, which you can adapt to suit your needs. Think about creating a weekly timetable that includes all your subjects and gives you enough time for revision, coursework and personal activities. 

Explore SMART goals and objectives with Angelica from our Skills Hub

How to make the most of your exam revision

• Taking notes

Good note-taking is essential for successful revision. Summarise key points, use headings and bullet points to make things clear and highlight important ideas. You can also rewrite or condense your notes to get a more thorough understanding of the material. Cornell Notetaking is a popular way to structure and organise your notes, alongside flashcards. A quick Google will reveal loads of links and templates to help you.

• Practice papers and mock exams

Practising past exam papers is one of the best ways to prepare for your exams. This helps you become familiar with the format and time limits. Mock exams also allow you to check your understanding of the material and improve your exam technique.

• Past papers

Past papers are invaluable for understanding the types of questions you may come across in exams. Use them to shape your revision plan – practice under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam and then look at how well you did so you can focus on areas where you struggled. Most exam boards have their past papers free to download from their websites, for example Pearson and AQA. 

When exploring past papers, it's helpful to know about command words too – they are the words or phrases in exams and assessments that tell you how to answer the question. AQA has a handy list to refer to, and BBC Bitesize has some tips on understanding command words.

Last minute revision tips for exams

• Cramming without stress

While cramming is not ideal, if it becomes necessary, focus on key topics and areas you find the most difficult. Quiz yourself to test your memory and look at your summary notes. Most importantly: stay calm and stick to your plan.

• Quick recall techniques

Use flashcards, mind maps or summary notes to quickly recall important information. Group related topics together to help strengthen connections in your memory.

• The night before your exam

The night before the exam it is important to stay calm. Avoid cramming excessively and instead do a light review of the main areas of study. Make sure you get a good night’s sleep to keep your mind sharp during the exam.

Group related topics together to help strengthen connections in your memory.

Common revision mistakes and how to avoid them

• Relying on highlighting

Highlighting is helpful for marking key information, but over relying on it can be ineffective. Instead of just reading the material, get involved with it by summarising, practicing and testing yourself.

• Passive revision vs active learning

Passive revision –  like simply reading or highlighting – can make you feel productive, but doesn’t lead to deep learning. Active learning – such as explaining the material to someone else, practicing past questions or quizzing yourself – will help you retain the information more effectively.

• Ignoring your weaker topics

It’s tempting to focus on subjects or topics that you’re already familiar with, but this can be unhelpful. You need to spend time focusing on your weaker areas so you can improve your overall understanding and performance.

How to reduce exam stress and anxiety

• Mindfulness and relaxation techniques

Incorporate mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing or meditation, to help manage stress – these techniques can help calm your nerves and improve concentration.

• Eating and sleeping

Getting enough sleep is essential for good mental performance and memory. Try to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night during your revision period. Eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated to fuel your brain so it can perform at its best.

• Building your confidence before exams

Focus on your progress and the effort you’ve put into your studies. Visualise success, remind yourself of the skills and knowledge you’ve developed and believe in your ability to perform well in the exam.

Remind yourself of the skills and knowledge you’ve developed and believe in your ability to perform well in the exam.

Additional revision resources for students

• Revision guides and online tools

Many universities and educational websites offer free revision guides and practice materials. Use these to improve your learning and test your understanding.

• BBC Bitesize study support
• UCAS top tips for revision

• YouTube channels for revision

Channels like CrashCourse, Khan Academy and The Organic Chemistry Tutor provide excellent educational videos across many subjects, which can be particularly helpful for visual and auditory learners.

• Study apps

Apps like Quizlet, Anki and Forest can be useful for revising by helping you create flashcards, improve your focus and manage your time effectively.

Check out our self-help guides

• What we eat matters: The food-mood connection
• Combat stress through relaxation
• How to avoid demotivation

Now you know how to organise your revision, why not order a free wall planner from us.