How to Get Started with Your Revision

This guide for GCSE and A-Level students help you get started on your revision journey. Revision can feel overwhelming at first, especially with a packed syllabus and looming deadlines. But getting started is often the hardest part. With the right strategy, you'll find your rhythm and begin to feel more confident. Here’s how to begin your revision journey effectively.

Start Early – Give Yourself Time

The earlier you start revising, the more time you’ll have to cover all subjects, revisit difficult topics, and avoid last-minute stress. A good rule of thumb is to begin serious revision at least three months before your exams. Starting early allows you to space out your revision, which improves memory and reduces burnout.

Make a Realistic Revision Timetable

Steps to create a revision timetable:

• List all subjects: Include each exam subject and break it into topics or units.
• Prioritise: Give more time to subjects or topics you find difficult.
• Be realistic: Don’t plan to revise for 10 hours a day. 2–4 quality hours are more productive than 10 unfocused ones.
• Include breaks and rest days: Your brain needs rest to retain information.
• Be flexible: Life happens. Allow space for adjustments if you miss a session.

Revision World has a free revision timetable maker to help you get started. 

Set Specific Goals for Each Session

Avoid vague tasks like “revise Biology.” Instead, go for specific objectives such as “Revise photosynthesis and complete 2 exam questions.” This makes it easier to track progress and helps you stay focused.

Use Active Revision Techniques

Reading your notes over and over is not the most effective way to revise. Try active methods like:

• Flashcards
• Mind maps and diagrams
• Past paper questions (GCSE) (A-level)
• Quizzes   
• Teaching someone else
• Using mnemonics or memory aids

Active engagement helps move information into long-term memory.

Create a Study Space

A quiet, tidy, and well-lit space can do wonders for your concentration. Make sure you have:

• All necessary materials (notes, textbooks, stationery)
• Minimal distractions (put your phone on silent and stay off social media)

Don’t Forget to Review

Revisiting topics regularly helps strengthen memory. Use a revision cycle (e.g. revise a topic, revisit in 2 days, then again in a week) to make sure knowledge sticks.

Look After Yourself

Your brain functions best when you:

• Get enough sleep (8 hours a night if possible)
• Eat well (fuel yourself with proper meals, not just snacks)
• Stay active (even a short walk can boost focus)
• Take breaks (use techniques like the Pomodoro method – 25 minutes work, 5 minutes rest)

Start Now – Don’t Wait for the “Perfect” Time

It’s easy to delay starting revision because you're not “ready” or your desk isn’t tidy. But the best way to begin is to do something small today, even if it’s just organising your notes or creating a timetable. Momentum builds from small steps.

Final Thought

Revision isn't about cramming everything into your head at once. It's about steady, consistent effort over time. Get organised, start small, and stay positive. You've got this!