We know that everyone takes a different approach when it comes to studying for exams and assessments, but if you’re still looking for a revision technique that suits you, then look no further than these top tips from our Knowhow team. Good luck with your prep!
1. Set up a dedicated workspace
It might seem obvious, but choosing where you work can make a big difference to your productivity.
Try to create a space that’s separate from where you relax, and if you’re sharing space with others then it’s worth agreeing a time when you can each use the space.
Remember, if you’re on-campus then you can book a study space in the library before you arrive.
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2. Establish a good morning routine
Keeping to a positive morning routine can help you maintain productivity. Tips include:
- setting an alarm to wake up at the same time each day
- eat a healthy breakfast that will set you up for the day
- if you have the time, get some fresh air! Even if it’s just a short walk, it can help to clear your head
3. Create a study plan
Creating a realistic study plan is an important part of your revision, and you should consider:
- How many assessments you have and how confident you feel in each topic
- When you are most productive
- What other commitments and responsibilities you have
Breaking up your daily tasks into chunks can make them feel more manageable and help you to prioritise your workload.
Make a daily list of tasks that you would like to achieve and try to schedule the most challenging or time-consuming tasks for the time of day when you work best.
You can download our printable Revision Planner to help create your study plan or pick up an A2 revision planner in the Harold Cohen or Sydney Jones. In addition, this KnowHow tutorial on managing your time walks you through how to make a useful and realistic study plan.
Don’t be too hard on yourself – remember to schedule in regular breaks.
4. Study actively
If you sometimes find that you’ve spent a long time studying but are struggling to remember what you’ve revised then your study technique could be too passive.
Active studying can really help when revising. Using techniques such as mind maps, flash cards or post-it notes can help you engage with large amounts of information and keep things interesting.
5. Stay focused
It can be easy to lose concentration when you’re revising. The Pomodoro technique is a useful method to help you stay focused. Here’s how it works:
- Choose your task or topic to revise
- Set a timer for 25 minutes and work until the timer rings
- Have a 5-minute break
- Repeat 4 times
- Have a 30-minute break
Find more useful techniques to help you beat procrastination in KnowHow’s online tutorials.
6. Take a break and reward yourself
Revision can mean you spend a lot of time sitting down and looking at a screen. It’s important to take breaks as your health and mental wellbeing matter more than anything else. It can actually hinder your progress if you don’t allow yourself to take time off.
Try to create time to see friends, call home, walk through the park, make yourself a nice meal, watch TV, knit, play sport, read a book, make fun plans for summer – whatever makes you happy.
It’s also worth making time to get outside if you can by going for a walk or a run. Moving your body helps relieve stress and will also release endorphins that can lift your mood whilst you study.
Taking a break and rewarding yourself for completing tasks can help you stay motivated, feel a sense of accomplishment, and achieve more.
Struggling? Teams at the University are here to help. Get in touch today
7. Be prepared
If you’re looking for tips and tricks on how to best prepare for your upcoming exams then check out the KnowHow exam preparation online tutorials. We’ve got a variety of exam types covered so you’ll know what to expect and can make sure you’re prepared:
- Watch the tutorial on getting ready for your in-person exams
- Watch the tutorial on getting ready for essay style questions
- Watch the tutorial on answering short answer exam questions
- Watch the tutorial on preparing for 24+ hour exams
As well as online tutorials (available 24/7) there are also live KnowHow workshops, running online and in-person in the run up to your exams and assessments, specifically focusing on revision techniques.
You can also find online tutorials on Canvas, or book a place on a KnowHow workshop for support with topics including note taking, statistics, literature reviews, critical reading and academic integrity.