It was a long time ago now that I was busy revising for my exams, first my GCSE’s and then my A’levels. It was quite a anxious time looking back, and all that revision that had to be done was quite daunting really. My friends and I all had our own methods of revising, and I think that is the crucial thing to bear in mind when revising, that we all learn and retain information differentlty. Some people prefer using visual aids, like cram.com , some just like to read notes and others, like myself, would rather make written notes (nowadays kids probably use a computer to make notes of course!) .
I remember spending ages writing notes into a small note book which I could take everywhere with me, which I could look at anytime, with which to memorise important information which I hoped would be inculded in my exams. I also recall speaking into my tape recorder to record some notes for lessons such as science and french, and then listening to my own voice tape in my walkman as I drifted off to sleep! I guess these methods worked as I did quite well in my exams.
Of course every person is different and so is they way they revise. I asked some friends how they revised for exams, or to share some tips and here is what they said:
I was always told reading over things before bed was a good idea, as you subconsciously go over it as you sleep
Andrea
Visually put post-its around the house – it will go in sub-consciously then. or mnemonic techinques such as making a story out of the materials.
Joy
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Can’t believe I’m admitting this, but I used to record myself talking and reading my revision notes then play it on a loop, even when I was asleep. Maybe that’s why I can’t stand to hear my recorded voice
AmandaIf revising for many exams in a row, make a revision time table and stick to it. Plan in breaks, exercise and treats. My tactic at Uni.
MaggyRevision posters all over the house – you learn whilst making them and take in the information as you pass by. And regular breaks and start the day with physical exercise. It wakes up your brain and aids learning.
Mind mapping changed my life, I wrote a little legacy post about it
PennyMake mnemonics – worked well for me with things where you needed a set of word prompts
HelenAhhh, Maggy has already mentioned mine too. A plan worked wonders for me
Marianne
Glad to see I was not the only teenager to record her own voice! Thank you ladies.
So however you choose to learn, just choose a method which works for you.
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