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 Library 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 which is free from as many distractions as possible.
Remember, if you’re on-campus then you can book a study space in the library before you arrive.
2. Establish a good morning routine
Keeping to a positive morning routine can help you maintain productivity. So, make sure to set an alarm, get dressed and eat a nutritious breakfast, it all helps to put you in the right frame of mind for revising.
3. Create a study plan
Creating a realistic study plan is an important part of your revision. Think about when you’re most productive, which topics you feel more/less confident in and what else you’ve got on.
Breaking up your daily tasks into chunks can make them feel more manageable and help you to prioritise your workload. Make sure it’s a realistic and deliverable plan though, being overly ambitious will put you off right from the start, so don’t ask too much of yourself. You can download our printable Revision Planner to help create your study plan.
Take a KnowHow tutorial on how to make a useful and realistic study plan
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 study groups or post-it notes can help you engage with large amounts of information and keep things interesting.
5. Stay focused
Struggling to stay focused? Try the Pomodoro technique. 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
Learn skills to beat procrastination with this KnowHow tutorial
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 away from your revision and make sure that includes getting some fresh air and exercise, even if it’s just a short walk to the shops to buy your dinner ingredients. Factor in some downtime indoors too – watch TV, read, knit – whatever makes you happy.
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.