What Is The Best Way To Revise

We have all had to revise at one time or another, some people find it easy to revise while others become stressed and fail to take anything in, no matter how hard they may try.

While studying for my GCSE's, I remember reading my study notes over and over, yet I could not keep the information in my head. My teacher at the time suggested I attend one of the scheduled revision classes.

While there I was given some tips on revision which proved to be a great help to me. I also had some of the study notes explained to me, and found I absorbed the information a whole lot easier having someone verbally speaking it, rather than me reading it.

I later learned that I am what is known as a 'Auditory Learner' which means i learn better by hearing and listening.

As an 'Auditory Learner' the best ways for me to revise was by reading my study notes aloud. Recording myself speaking the study notes, and then playing it back was also a great help.

Another good way for an 'Auditory Learner' to revise is by watching films and documentaries based on that particular subject (This method was particularly useful when revising for English/English Literature).

Also try to attend revision classes and study groups where you can discuss the written material.

The second type of learner is the 'Visual Learner' this means you learn by seeing and looking. The best ways for a 'Visual Learner' to revise is by writing down key points on summary cards.

Another good way of revising is to write notes on post-it-notes/ sticky labels, and posting them all around the house where you will see them, for example the fridge, wardrobe door etc.

Visual learners may find it helpful to make diagrams or draw pictures to help them with their revision.

The final type of learner is the 'Kinesthetic Learner' this means you learn by touching and doing. This type of learner will probably struggle more with revision, as they can get bored easily and rely on hands on experience.

The best ways for a 'Kinesthetic Learner' to revise is by taking regular breaks between revision as they get bored easily. Also try walking around while reading your study notes, so you are still being active.

Have music on in the background while you revise. Instead of making written study notes, try researching your subject on the Internet and then typing up your study notes instead.

Kinesthetic learners enjoy field trips, so find out if there are any museums or galleries relating to your subject that you can go and visit.

Other Helpful Tips For Revision

1. Make a revision plan and stick to it.

2. Try to revise at the kitchen table or in your local library, anywhere you wont have distractions such as television, computer games etc.

3. Mix it up- Switch between subjects rather than revising the same one for hours, this way you wont get bored easily.

4. Attend revision/ study classes, that way if you don't understand something, there will be a teacher on hand to explain it.

5. Try not to cram in revision the night before an exam, you will be tired the next day and therefore more likely to forget things.

6. Give yourself regular breaks, go for a walk, have a snack etc. Don't go and watch TV or play computer games, as this will more than likely distract you from getting back to your revision.

7. Eat a balanced diet (see more on this below) make yourself snacks for revision time, and drink plenty of water.

8. Try re-writing the important points in your revision, many people find they remember information more when they are writing it out, rather than reading it from notes/book.

9. I have never personally tried this but some people say that singing their revision notes help them remember more. Worth a try!!

10. Try to avoid getting stressed out. Taking exams can become extremely stressful, many students worry they will fail, some worry they will disappoint their parents and others become worried that they wont do as well as all their friends.

It is important that you remember to relax, tell yourself "I can do this." Remind yourself why you want to succeed, and try your hardest to meet that goal.

All any of us can do is try our best, and I am sure all your friends are feeling just as anxious as you are about upcoming exams.

11. A great piece of advice that i see time and time again is, "The most effective way to revise is to concentrate on understanding, rather than just memorizing."

Most people can memorize things, but if you do not understand what you have just read, then you are more than likely to forget it. So take the time to understand what you are revising. If you still don't understand, then don't be afraid to ask your teacher for guidance, they are there to help you.

We have all heard the sayings "Don't forget your 5 a day" and "Breakfast is the most important meal of the day."

Not only are these popular sayings completely true, it is very important that you stick to them while revising, in order to enhance brain power, memory and concentration, and to keep your energy levels up.

For breakfast try eating a cereal that is low in sugar, like porridge for example, for an extra healthy breakfast try adding some chopped up fruit.

Another healthy breakfast is peanut butter on wholemeal toast, this is a good mix of protein and carbohydrates.

Eggs are good for boosting your memory, try poached eggs on wholemeal toast.

Drink a glass of water or a refreshing glass of fruit juice with breakfast to keep your body hydrated.

Brain food includes walnuts and pumpkin seeds, which make great snacks. Oily fish such as cod has also been proven to increase brain power.

Plus good carbohydrates such as pasta and wholemeal bread.

Vegetables known to enhance brain power and memory are, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage. Other good memory boosting foods are soybeans, liver, tomatoes, blueberries, blackcurrant and pumpkin seeds.

With all the hours you will be putting into your revision, it is important to keep your energy levels up. Foods that boost your energy levels include chicken, brown rice, lentils, sesame seeds, almonds, apricots.

Try to avoid fatty, fried foods as this will make you drowsy and sluggish.

By eating a healthy balanced diet and drinking plenty of water you should quickly notice an increase in energy and brain power.

Remember to get plenty of fresh air and to always have a proper nights sleep, especially the night before an exam. Good luck!!