How to Revise Effectively: 13 Science-Backed Tips for Exam Success

Exams can be challenging, but by applying scientifically supported study methods, you can make your revision sessions more effective and less stressful.

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Start Early and Get Organised

Effective revision begins long before exams are on the horizon. Planning ahead gives you a huge advantage, allowing you to create a detailed timetable that includes each subject and topic area you need to cover. Starting early also lets you spread out revision (see Tip 3) rather than cramming everything at the last minute. Write down a clear plan, and divide larger topics into smaller, more manageable sections. Use a calendar or digital planner to allocate time for each subject.

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Tailor Your Techniques to Your Learning Style

While learning preferences may not be really be confined to categories like "kinaesthetic" or "visual" 'learning styles', discovering individualised learning approaches is still important.

Whether you learn better through discussion, such as teaching others, auditory instruction, visual aids such as mind-maps or flash cards for memorisation, or writing notes, identifying and consistently using the most effective methods will help you with your motivation and results.

In truth, it is probably best to employ various learning strategies rather than rely solely on one approach. Incorporating holistic methods such as the Pomodoro Technique (see tip 5) can also enhance your learning experience.

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Space Out Your Study Sessions

Instead of studying everything in one session, spread your revision over multiple days or weeks and avoid cramming. Known as Distributed Practice or the Spacing Effect, this approach is proven to improve long-term memory retention. For example, study a topic one day, review it briefly a few days later, and revisit it again the following week. Spacing sessions out allows your brain to process and retain information better than cramming.

Creating a structured, spaced revision plan can be challenging, especially with a full syllabus to cover. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to design an effective study plan, consider working with a tutor who can provide expert guidance.

A tutor can help you:

• Break down each subject into manageable segments
• Build a personalised study timetable that incorporates spaced repetition
• Identify and focus on areas where you need the most support
• Develop effective revision strategies tailored to your learning style

Discover Ivy Education’s expert tutoring services and take the guesswork out of planning your revision. Our experienced tutors work with you to ensure you’re studying effectively and retaining information for long-term success.

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Quiz Yourself Regularly

Actively testing yourself is a highly effective study strategy. This technique, called Retrieval Practice, works better than simply reviewing notes, as it forces your brain to recall information. Use flashcards, quiz apps, or write down everything you remember about a topic and then check for accuracy. Testing strengthens memory connections and makes it easier to retrieve information during the actual exam.

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Break It Up with the Pomodoro Technique

Regular breaks prevent burnout and keep you focused. Try the Pomodoro Technique: study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four cycles, take a longer break. This method maintains productivity and reduces fatigue.

This video can help you learn how to use the Pomodoro Technique effectively.

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Master Past Papers for Confidence

Familiarise yourself with the exam format by practicing past papers. This is particularly effective in identifying areas of strength and topics that need more attention. Regular practice under exam conditions can improve time management and reduce exam anxiety.

No matter what stage you're at, if you're taking your 11+ exams, GCSE, A Levels, or Uni exams, this is may be one of the most effective ways of revising. Not only are you familiarising yourself with the types of topics that you may encounter in your exam, but you are also revising by utilising a combination of the previous techniques, such as retrieval practice.

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Teach Back to Reinforce Knowledge

Teaching or explaining what you’ve learned, called Self-Explanation or teaching others, reveals gaps in your understanding and reinforces knowledge Try explaining complex concepts to a friend or family member to ensure clarity.

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Switch Up Your Subjects for a Brain Boost

Rather than focusing on a single topic for hours, try mixing up different subjects within a session. Known as Interleaved Practice, this approach has been shown to improve adaptability and problem-solving skills (source). For example, spend 30 minutes on maths, then switch to literature, and follow with a quick science review. This keeps your brain engaged and strengthens your ability to apply knowledge across different contexts.

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Visualise with Diagrams and Mind Maps

Pairing words with visuals, a technique called Dual Coding, makes it easier to understand and retain information. Create mind maps, flowcharts, or annotated diagrams to organise complex topics. For example, if you’re studying biology, a mind map connecting cell structures to their functions can help you visualise and remember the relationships between concepts. If you're building out your revision timetable, then colour-code your subjects to help you associate specific colours with memory recall.

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Ask ‘Why’ for Deeper Learning

Engaging with material through questions like “why” helps you understand and remember complex concepts. Known as Elaborative Interrogation, this method encourages you to think critically. For example, if you're revising for GCSE history, ask why events happened as they did and how they connect to other events. This encourages deeper learning and comprehension.

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Target Weak Areas First

Use past assessments or mock exams to identify areas needing improvement and prioritise these in your revision plan. Tackling weaknesses early in your study plan builds confidence and ensures more balanced preparation. Working on weak areas is especially helpful when preparing for multi-subject exams, where each mark counts.

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Stay Healthy – Eat, Sleep, and Exercise Well

Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for optimal brain function and cognitive performance. Research indicates that certain nutrients can enhance memory, attention, and overall mental clarity. For instance, omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon and mackerel, are essential for brain health and have been linked to improved cognitive abilities. Additionally, antioxidants present in fruits and vegetables help protect brain cells from damage. Incorporating a balanced diet rich in these nutrients can significantly boost your study efficiency and exam performance.

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Develop a Stress-Relief Routine for Exams

Keeping a positive outlook can help reduce exam stress. Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or short meditation sessions, to stay calm and focused. Remember, exams are a stepping stone, not the final destination. Maintaining a positive mindset can improve your concentration and productivity.

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Bonus Tip: Work with an Expert Tutor to Maximise Your Exam Preparation

Sometimes, self-study alone isn’t enough to tackle the full scope of exam preparation, especially when trying to cover multiple subjects or complex topics. That’s where the guidance of an expert tutor can make a world of difference. A tutor from Ivy Education can provide not only subject-specific insights but also help you build an effective, tailored study plan that incorporates the best revision strategies, like Distributed Practice and Active Recall.

With the support of an Ivy Education tutor, you gain:

• A Personalised Study Plan: Tutors assess your strengths and weaknesses, creating a bespoke revision plan that targets the areas you need most, while also spreading out revision sessions to enhance retention.
• Effective Revision Techniques: Expert tutors are skilled in applying scientifically proven methods, ensuring you’re studying smarter, not harder. This means focusing on techniques like active recall, past papers, and mind maps, which tutors can help you incorporate into your daily routine.
• Boosted Confidence and Reduced Stress: Knowing that you have a knowledgeable guide by your side can significantly reduce exam anxiety. Tutors provide regular feedback and practice sessions that build your confidence, ensuring you’re fully prepared and calm on exam day.

Maximise your potential with a structured, professional approach to revision. Explore Ivy Education’s tutoring options today and take your exam preparation to the next level.

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Sources

1. Putnam, A. L., & Roediger, H. L. III. (2018). Improving Student Learning through Distributed Practice. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 13(2), 236-259.
2. Dunlosky, J., Rawson, K. A., Marsh, E. J., Nathan, M. J., & Willingham, D. T. (2013). Improving Students’ Learning With Effective Learning Techniques: Promising Directions From Cognitive and Educational Psychology. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 14(1), 4-58.
3. Clark, J. M., & Paivio, A. (1991). Dual Coding Theory and Education. Educational Psychology Review, 3(3), 149-210.
4. Rawson, K. A., & Dunlosky, J. (2011). Optimizing schedules of retrieval practice for durable and efficient learning: How much is enough? Applied Cognitive Psychology, 25(5), 760-768.
5. McDaniel, M. A., & Donnelly, C. M. (1996). Learning with Analogy and Elaborative Interrogation. Journal of Educational Psychology, 88(3), 508-519.
6. Nagahara, Y., & Yokoyama, M. (2017). The Effects of Retrieval Practice and Spacing on Learning and Memory. Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications, 2(1), 12.
7. The Learning Scientists. (2017, May 23). The Science of Effective Learning Strategies [Video]. YouTube.
8. Frith, E., Loprinzi, P. D., & Edwards, M. K. (2023). The Role of Nutrition in Cognitive Performance and Academic Success. Journal of Nutrition.

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FAQs

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