For many of us, the approach of the Easter vacation signifies the arrival of spring. For others, Easter might also signify the approach of exams and the need to revise. It’s not uncommon to start feeling overwhelmed when thinking about exam preparation but there are many tried and tested techniques that can help you to feel more in control.
First of all, set aside some time to plan out what you need to cover in the time you have left. Breaking down revision tasks into a realistic and manageable plan helps to reduce some of the stress around fitting everything in. The Student Room has a free Revision Timetable Maker / Study Planner (getrevising.co.uk). As soon as you know when your exam dates are, put them in your plan so that you can prioritise your work around them. The amount of revision you do depends on the amount of time you have. However, in order for revision to be effective, it needs to be consistent and not ad hoc. Having a plan will help your revision to be more structured and make more efficient use of your time.
It is important to include study breaks and social time in your plan. Giving your brain regular breaks actually makes revision more effective as it helps to avoid brain overload. The original Pomodoro Technique was developed to help with this and may be helpful for some. You set a timer for 25-minute intervals and focus intently on a task, and then take a short 5-minute break. There are several apps available that can help you with this pomodoro – Android Apps on Google Play, pomodoro free – Apple
How and where you revise is also something to consider. Some people work best when there are others studying around them and some people prefer solitude. Ideally you want somewhere quiet with enough space for all your revision resources and materials.
Active learning techniques, such as summarising, note-taking, and teaching others, are more effective than passive learning techniques like re-reading and highlighting. You are more likely to remember and understand the material by actively engaging with it. Consider using flashcards or mind maps (The Complete Guide on How to Mind Map for Beginners (iqmatrix.com)) to help you remember key concepts. Teaching others is also an effective way to reinforce your learning, as it forces you to explain concepts in a way others can understand. Get some friends together and have a go!
Preparing for exams can be stressful, so managing your stress levels effectively during this time is essential. Here are some tips that might help:
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help you reduce stress and improve your mood.
Practice relaxation techniques: Meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help you relax and reduce anxiety.
Talk to someone: Talking about your stress can help you gain perspective and feel supported.
Get enough sleep: Resting is crucial for reducing stress and maintaining your overall well-being.
Eat nutritious foods: When your body is well-nourished, your brain can focus and retain information better. Consuming a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is essential.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help improve cognitive performance and prevent fatigue during long study sessions.
Avoid or reduce caffeine intake: Don’t drink too much coffee, tea or fizzy drinks (including energy drinks); the caffeine will ‘hype’ you and make your thinking less clear.
In conclusion, effective exam preparation will support you in the run-up to exams. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Experiment with different study techniques and revision styles until you find what works best for you. With determination, discipline, and the right mindset, you can confidently approach any exam and achieve the results you hope for. Good luck!
