REVISION
Study is the systematic pursuit of knowledge.
Suggested Techniques
- The essential key to studying is LEARNING AS YOU GO ALONG. Learning should start prior to all your lessons. You could find out what your next lesson is going to be about and research this topic. By giving yourself this background knowledge, you are primed to absorb any extra information given by your teacher. You are also more likely to understand the topic as you are processing this knowledge for the second time. The lesson can then be used as an opportunity to seek clarification in any areas of uncertainty. It is beneficial to review what you have learnt, the same day you have learnt it, a week later and then a month later; this will reinforce the key facts.
- Being attentive and CONCENTRATING 100% in class, allows you to save time, as you understand the topic properly the very first time. This also reduces the stress of cramming in last minute revision. There is an immense quantity required to be learnt and therefore learning continuously ensures you simply need to recap the subject as opposed to learning it at the last minute.
- Another extremely beneficial technique is to PRACTISE answering questions. All year round, you are taking information in, but when it comes to the exam you are going to have to give information out, hence answering plenty of questions on the topic will strengthen your ability to do this. Past papers are accessible online and it is highly recommended to do as many as possible. The trends of the questions are always similar so they give you an insight into the style of the exam.
- TEACHING what you are learning to someone else will increase your confidence on the subject. As you explain a principle aloud, you are subconsciously explaining it to yourself and consequently bettering your understanding. If there is no one available to teach, another option is, pretending the wall is listening to you.
- Sticking FLASH CARDS around your house is an effective and time efficient way of revising; it refreshes your memory every time you walk past. COLOUR CODING your notes also makes revision more organised. One could associate different colours to various concepts to make them more memorable. This is an ideal method for visual learners.
- Have a POSITIVE attitude towards your subjects. You will not be able to do something if you do not have belief in it.
- Enjoy education! Playing music that you enjoy while doing your homework and revising makes it enjoyable for some students.
- Enjoy living too (all work and no play makes students dull).
GOOD HABITS are very important!
- Healthy eating; Having a good breakfast before exams enhances your brains ability to access the information stored in your brain.
- Drinking adequate amounts of water evenly during the day is good. Drinking water during an exam is recommended as it keeps your brain cells hydrated.
- Plentiful & regularised sleep (There is a saying “Early to bed and early to rise makes one healthy wealthy and wise”)
- Regular exercises are needed to keep your brain at optimum function. A brisk walk everyday to school will increase oxygen supply to your brain and your attentiveness in class.
Lastly, the CONE OF LEARNING demonstrates what the most efficient ways of learning are, one should adopt these as much as possible.