Exams are an inevitable part of every student's life, and preparation is key to success. A well-structured revision timetable not only organises your study routine but also makes the entire process less stressful. In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover the importance of a revision timetable, how to create one that suits your needs, and the tools and resources to make it happen.
Do you need a revision timetable?
“Do you need a revision timetable?" you might wonder. Managing your time is about assigning specific slots for each subject. By adopting this strategy, you won't find yourself cramming chemistry or any other subject the night before the big test. Planning ahead with a clear timetable can help you avoid that last-minute panic. If you're aiming to boost those grades, a structured revision plan is essential. Why? Because it helps you remember things more effectively. Plus it’s been proven time and time again that better recall translates directly to higher grades. So, in short: Yes, a revision timetable is definitely worth considering.
Revision timetables: How to make and use one
Whether you are in year 9 or sitting your A Levels, a revision timetable will help you with your studies.
Creating a revision timetable is easier than you might think. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Assess Your Subjects:
List all the subjects and topics you need to cover.
Step 2: Prioritise:
Rank subjects by difficulty and importance.
Step 3: Set Goals:
Define what you want to achieve in each study session.
Step 4: Allocate Time:
Break your day into study blocks and assign subjects accordingly.
Step 5: Use Tools:
Consider using a revision timetable maker or templates to simplify the process.
Step 6: Stay Flexible:
Allow room for breaks and unexpected disruptions.
Don’t forget that an experienced 1:1 tutor can help you come up with the perfect revision plan,
so if you want the best chance at succeeding, you’ve come to the right place!
Why is Your Revision Schedule Different for GCSEs vs. A-Levels?
Think of GCSE’s as a buffet — you've got a bit of everything, from Maths to Art. It's all about getting the basics down across a bunch of subjects. On the flip side, A-Levels are like diving into your favourite dishes and really savouring them. You pick a few subjects and go deep, really understanding the nitty-gritty. So, when you're planning your revision, remember: GCSE is about covering the ground, and A-Level is about digging deep.
On the plus side, if exams aren’t your thing, there are so many other options out there after GCSE. Your end goal doesn’t have to be university, in fact we put together a fantastic guide full of our favourite alternatives to university to give you some inspiration.
Even if you don’t intend on sticking around for further education, it’s still worth giving your GCSEs your best shot, and a revision timetable could be the key to success.
How to create a timetable for GCSEs revision
Balanced Approach: GCSE students often juggle numerous subjects. Focus on a balanced approach, allocating equal time to core subjects like Maths, English, and Science.
Integrate Specialised Subjects: Don't overlook subjects that are specific to your interests or future aspirations. Ensure they have a place in your timetable.
Incorporate Past Papers: Practice with past papers to get a feel for the exam format. Allocate specific sessions for this practice.
Weekly Review: Dedicate time for weekly reviews to reinforce what you've learned and identify areas for improvement.
How to create a timetable for A-Levels revision?
Field of Study Focus: A-Level study is more specialised. Emphasise the subjects that align with your chosen field of study, whether it's Humanities, Sciences, or Arts.
Depth Over Breadth: Unlike GCSE, A-Level requires a deeper understanding of fewer subjects. Allocate more time for in-depth analysis and critical thinking exercises.
Utilise Tutors: If you're struggling with complex topics, schedule sessions with tutors or mentors. Include these in your timetable.
Real-World Applications: Explore real-world applications of your subjects. This not only enriches understanding but also makes study sessions more engaging.
Tips on planning your revision
Do: 👍
Be Realistic: Make sure your timetable mirrors your real-life schedule. Got a part-time job or a football practice? Factor those in.
Include Breaks and Leisure: Remember, it's not a sprint, it's a marathon. Slot in time for your hobbies, relaxation, and just chilling.
Adjust as Needed: Things change, and that's okay. Review and tweak your timetable as exams draw near.
Seek Guidance: Chat with your teachers, parents, or mates. They might have some golden advice when setting up your schedule.
Don't: 👎
Overloading: Tempted to cram everything? Don't. Space out your subjects and focus on understanding, not just covering ground.
Forgetting Breaks: Your brain isn't a machine. Give it some downtime with regular breaks.
Being Too Rigid: Life's unpredictable. That friend's surprise visit or the next binge-worthy show? Leave some space in your timetable for the unexpected.
Setting Sky-High Goals: Aiming for the stars is cool, but keep one foot on the ground. Balance ambition with what's genuinely doable.
Taking It Digital with Excel
After mastering the essentials of crafting a revision timetable, why not consider a digital approach? Excel isn't just for number-crunching; it's also a handy tool for creating structured timetables. Here's how you can use Excel to craft a well-organised revision schedule:
How to Make a Revision Timetable on Excel
Fire Up Excel: Open it up and choose a blank workbook.
Columns and Rows: Set columns for days and rows for time slots. Decide if you want hourly or half-hourly chunks.
Pop in Your Subjects: For a visual touch, consider colour coding.
Add Some Notes: Jot down specific topics or goals for each session.
Make It Yours: Tweak fonts, colours, and borders to fit your style.
Save, Print, Stick: Once done, save your masterpiece. Maybe even print it out and pin it on your wall for easy reference.
And because we know everyone loves a good example, here’s a quick mock-up:
