How to Revise

Revision is a process that’s often highly personal, with different methods working better for some people than others. It requires ample time and a strategy that starts with early preparation. Creating a consistent revision schedule and finding the motivation and effective methods to do so doesn’t have to be difficult. In this article, we will discuss revision as a concept and get into the specifics of how to go about creating a revision plan that works for you. 

Revision methods 

Students around the world have used various revision methods with varying degrees of success. Figuring out what method(s) work for you is an essential part of productive studying. 

The Leitner System  

The Leitner system is a method of learning based on flashcards. Simply organise all the information you need to learn or memorise on flashcards and begin with them all in one set. On your first revision day, go through each card. For every answer you know or every subject you feel confident in, move it to a new study set (we’ll call it study set two). 

Every card you get wrong or feel less confident in will remain in study set one or move back down from two to one should you get it wrong the next time you look at it. From there, you will study sets one and two separately, moving the cards into old or new study sets based on your level of comprehension, thus creating a sort of reward system. Each study set determines how often you should review concepts: 

• Study Set 1: daily  

• Study Set 2: every two days 

• Study Set 3: every four days 

• Study Set 4: every nine days 

By separating concepts based on confidence level and breaking your revision habits down from there, you will eventually gain better comprehension in each subject.  

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Colour Coding  

Research has shown that colour has a noticeable effect on our memories. Colour coding your notes may help you organise content in a more digestible way. You can accomplish this using several strategies. For example, you may consider organising things by subject or theme. You may want to use one colour for things you need to memorise and another for broad concepts. You might want to write down key concepts in one colour and general notes in another. 

By breaking things down into categories and colours, your brain will begin to compartmentalise information, making it easier to remember. 

Spaced Practice 

The spaced practice method theorises that by spreading revision over time rather than trying to digest a lot of information at once, you will be able to remember individual concepts and ideas better. To execute this, you might try reviewing information on a regular basis after learning it for the first time. By reviewing information regularly, you have a greater chance of remembering it by the time an exam rolls around. This method may also decrease stress closer to an exam, as you will have been studying and reviewing over time rather than cramming at the last minute.

Retrieval Practice 

Retrieval practice is all about the practice of recalling information. Studies have shown that the more you work to remember information that is not directly in front of you, reviewing the correct answers afterwards, the more information your brain will retain in the long run. It forms the basis of many learning and memory techniques and is not a new concept, but new studies have proven this to be one of the most useful revision tools.

Collaboration  

Collaborating with peers is a great revision habit that incorporates a level of fun into the practice. Some people may prefer to work alone, but you might find that reviewing information with friends is a great way for all of you to study productively. This practice might also encourage you to ask for help if you are confused about a specific idea or concept. Having people around and ready to help is a great addition to revision practices. 

Revision tips and tricks 

Starting the revision process may feel daunting, but it can be empowering once you find methods that work well for you. Here are some tips and tricks to lessen learning anxiety and help you be more productive. 

Figure out which method works for you. 

Many revision methods exist. Experiment with different options. Finding the one or ones that work for you will greatly benefit you in the long run, allowing you to create a consistent study plan. 

Find a comfortable working environment. 

Aside from method, the environment is arguably one of the most important aspects of a productive revision process. In order to maintain focus and stay on task, you must be comfortable (but not too comfortable). Research suggests not doing homework or revision in bed as it may cause your brain to associate bedtime with study time, throwing off your sleeping habits. You may consider trying to work in a noisier environment, a silent environment, a solitary space, or in collaboration with other people. Regardless, finding a space that works for you is a crucial part of forming a revision plan. 

Take breaks. 

In any revision plan, taking breaks is important. Your brain needs time to rest and recuperate after working so intensely. Some researchers suggest taking breaks in between each topic you’re studying, claiming this will help your brain compartmentalise information. Others suggest working in scheduled time increments and taking breaks every so often to boost brain function and overall productivity. 

Stay calm. 

The revision process can be stressful, which is why stress management is so essential. Allow yourself time away from revisions. Go out and have fun with friends. Do something you enjoy to break up your time. Managing stress and anxiety is an important part of prioritising your health and well-being. 

Prioritise overall health. 

Having a solid revision process and schedule is only one of the elements necessary to do well on an exam. Taking care of your overall well-being is just as important. To maximise your chances of success, make sure you are eating healthy, exercising, staying hydrated, and sleeping well. All of these healthy practices promote total brain function and will help you on your path to academic success. 

Next Steps

If you are looking for some techniques to support your revision, why not check out an online course like How to Learn: Powerful Mental Tools to Help You Master Tough Subjects or Study Skills for University Success, both available on Coursera.