10 tips for revising over the winter break

We know exams can be a daunting prospect. With assessments coming up in January, the Study Skills team have put together some top tips to combat the pressure and help you stay on track with your revision over the winter break:

Firstly, find out when your exams are. This will ensure no surprises in the new year!
Start revising early. As tempting as it is to leave your revision until festivities are over, you’ll be glad if you set aside a bit of time each day from the start of the break. Cramming leads to stress, which is a major block to revision and memory.
Plan your time with a revision timetable and stick to it as much as possible. Be realistic when you create your timetable. Allocate one subject to each revision block and make sure you allow time to test yourself and take regular breaks.
Revise in short, regular sessions of around 30-50 minutes. Revising for a short session every day is better than one long session a week. You can reward yourself after each session to keep you motivated. Why not treat yourself to the odd mince pie or a viewing of your favourite Christmas film? (You could even schedule the rewards into your timetable for the extra incentive!)
Don’t try to cram too many subjects into one revision session. One subject in each session will keep you focussed and avoid confusion.
Small revision cards and prompt lists are useful for revising dates, formulae and key points. You can also check them over while you’re on the move.
If you’re a visual learner, then try creating learning posters. Use colours, patterns and diagrams to illustrate key topics and then hang them in parts of your home where you can view them regularly.
Check Canvas to see if your tutor has uploaded examples of previous exam papers. This will tell you the type of question to expect in the exam, rather than specific topics.
Test yourself as you go along. For example, you could create a mind map from memory or practise writing an essay on the topic you’ve just covered.
Remember to take breaks. Enjoy time with family and friends and make sure to do some exercise, even if it’s braving the cold for a wintry walk!