Exams 2025: revision top tips!
There’s no denying it that exams can be stressful time for many students so making the most of revision time is vital.
Chris McNab, head teacher at Overton Grange School shares his top tips on how to be revision ready.
"Students’ main concerns at this time of the year are exams, will their revision be productive? And will their grades be good enough? - It’s a really stressful time for them.
“In my experience, the most ineffective way to revise is to read notes,” says Mr McNab “Not much goes in, minds wander and too much time is spent “working” for very little learning.”
So…
Plan: Be organised and try and find a place that can be set up in preparation for revision. Plan your revision in sessions of up to one hour and take a short break between sessions. Make lists – find the exam board’s specification and break down those topics into smaller topics. This helps it seem more manageable and less overwhelming.
Use Active techniques: Use mind maps, flashcards, create mini presentations – cover and test yourself!
Use past papers: This is key! familiarise yourself with both the content and style of question. You can then use the mark schemes to check your understanding – in my experience your class teachers will only be too pleased to offer feedback for any additional questions you are completing as part of your personal revision
Seek advice: Speak with your teachers, use the resources they are suggesting and making available to you. If you are having difficulties speak to your pastoral team
Make some sacrifices: switch your phone off when revision. This takes dedication but it is essential to ensure that the knowledge is fully understood and remembered. Social Media will still be there is 45 minutes!
Look after yourself: you need to take breaks and if you stick to your revision schedule you will certainly deserve them. Drink lots of water – a hydrated brain works far better than a dehydrated brain!
And finally…
Stay positive and believe in yourself – the exam season is a tough period for all students. Approach the tests with a can do attitude and remember you will be fine
