Studying effectively can make a real difference to GCSE results. Good study habits are well worth cultivating. Here are some tips on how to crack revision.
Time Management
Time is a key factor that can make or break a study plan. Your child needs to be booking in slots to study on their visible timetable, just as they would schedule in say, football practice. Without this, revision gets crammed into spare moments and misses the energy and focus it deserves. Sometimes students will have to say no to other things in order to stick to their study plan.
Good Planning
Your child needs to know exactly what is expected of them in their exams and assignments. This needs to be clearly defined and constantly referred to as a guide for their study plan. If they are unsure, they need to go back to their teacher for guidance. There is no point in studying something that won’t be in the exam.
Productive Workspace
It is useful to have a defined and fit-for-purpose workspace. Working at the edge of a messy kitchen table five minutes before dinner is not the best scenario. Ideally, your child should have a space of their own with their pens, paper and study books next to them.
A bottle of water, good light and a comfortable chair are all beneficial.
Somewhere to store study notes and exercise books is also really helpful. Some kids work well with background music, some like an open window, and others like the timer on. Help your child tailor their work environment to what works best for them.
Neat Summary Notes
Neat notes that summarise their learning into clear simple points will be really worthwhile. The sooner they learn to make these the better, as they will be invaluable for their revision and saves them hours. These need to be stored in a good system and completely legible in order to be most effective.
Do not disturb
Minimise distractions; music with words, a mobile phone, a rumbling tummy and a head full of worries will all interfere with studying. Social media can also be a problem particularly if they are working on their laptop. Blocking social media during study times will really help. There are apps you can install that block sites for a temporary period.
Study Partner
Most kids work best on their own but having a friend on speed dial who might be able to explain indecipherable notes or remind them how to do compound fractions will be a useful support to your child’s study. Why not help them identify a couple of hardworking friends who they can talk over their work with should they get stuck and have a little moan or mind map with every now and again.
Letts published a range of GCSE 9-1 revision books and practice papers, you can find them on lettsrevision.co.uk:
More: IGCSEs vs GCSEs | Why many schools choose to go modular.
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