How do you revise? Do you choose to revise at all (we all procrastinate, don’t worry)? I seem to go through stages of revising like crazy and then none at all. However I was considering earlier, is the way I revise actually effective? Is it actually going in my head? There’s only one way to test that, obviously when taking an exam. But to prevent you the worry in the first place, I have created a few ideas and tips to share with you for the most productive methods of revision.

Flashcards: 

These are by far the best way to revise for me. If your write the idea in a question form and the answer on the back, in different colours it is much more likely to stick in your head. It is scientifically proven that you remember colours more remember!

Flashcards… with pictures:

Now, this can take time and it depends how patient you are. If your like me and you like to make your notes super neat, or you enjoy being artistic this may be one for you. This way, you can also figure out if you have a photographic memory like me. By drawing images or printing them off and ticking them to flashcards or even mind maps, you can associate the fact or person you need to remember with the image. For anyone who takes English language at A-level, how do you think I remember Jennifer Coates Lang is dependant on context theory? I drew a red coat next to her name.

Mind maps: 

Now starring at a piece of paper is obviously not the best method to encourage information to stick in your head, that’s not what I’m saying. But you writing the information out, again and again will. From your notes you have taken in class or revision guides, make sure you properly process in the information into condensed but easily understandable notes. For example, with pictures, arrows, key terms highlighted, only essential information.

Use online resources such as Quizlet or Get Revising:

Both of these websites have tons of revision materials other people have produced for you to use and add to your notes! They are honestly a life saver. You can also create your own which I find super helpful. I tend to create a sort of flashcard idea, but with the questions on the left hand side of the column on a side of A4, and then answers on the right. It’s sort of a sheet of condensed notes.

Create PowerPoints on modules:

By going over ideas again but in a different form, your knowledge can only improve. Remember, including images is key!

Using practise exam papers /questions:

These are also super helpful. What better way to prepare for exams by doing more exams? Time yourself to make sure you have timing on point, and perfect your answer structure. Usually, if you hand these to your teacher after you’ve done them, they will be more than happy to mark them.

Don’t forget, these methods may not work for everyone. It’s just a case of trial and error, test each one out with a different topic or module and see what works best for you!

Love Eleanor xx