Easter Revision: Don't Let the Clock Tick Too Loudly

With some students finishing for Easter this Friday and others not until next week, the clock is ticking especially loudly for Year 11 students. I feel compelled to share this advice after watching my own son reach this critical point in Year 11 and decide to channel all his energy into cricket season instead of revision. It was absolutely infuriating!

When I asked him later, "Why did you take the 'burying your head in the sand' approach?" he admitted, "Mum, I got so far behind with my revision, I didn't actually know where to start, so I gave up." I don't want that to happen to your child.

Unlike my previous post about whether to revise during February half term, the question now isn't whether to revise—with exams starting next month, including the first English Language exam in 6 and a half weeks—but how much your teen should revise. Several anxious students asked me this very question during lessons this week.

My advice is simple: identify your knowledge gaps and create a tailored timetable. In fact, one of my tutees told me she's still learning basic Maths content! (Please share these tips with your teen!)

Breaking Through the Starting Barrier

The hardest part is always sitting down and actually beginning. Here's how to ease into it gently:

Top Tips for Effective Revision

1. Create a Dedicated Study Space
Find somewhere quiet and uncluttered to work. Not everyone has a desk, but try to find a consistent space that signals "study time" to your brain.

2. Develop a Strategic Revision Schedule
Create a subject-by-subject plan, allocating more time to areas where you have identified gaps in your knowledge.

3. Set Realistic Daily Goals
Plan achievable targets for each day. You want to avoid exhaustion while still feeling a sense of accomplishment when you finish.

4. Break It Down Into Manageable Chunks
Don't force yourself to study for hours without breaks. Your brain processes information more effectively in shorter intervals with rest periods that allow for consolidation.

5. Try the Pomodoro Technique
One of my sons, who struggled with focus, loved this method (or "Poms" as he called them). It breaks work into 25-minute intervals with short breaks in between, promoting productivity and sustained attention. Learn more about the Pomodoro Technique here.

6. Consider the Flora App
This app blocks distracting applications on your phone during study sessions. You can even connect with friends to create a motivating competitive element—though be aware this approach might demotivate some students. Choose what works for you!

Making the Most of Break Time

Breaks are essential, but it's important to use them wisely. The challenge is preventing a quick five-minute break from turning into hours down a social media rabbit hole. Either keep your phone in another room or strictly time your breaks.

What to Do During Breaks

I always recommend getting up for a walk and a stretch—though I understand this doesn't appeal to everyone, especially in poor weather. Nevertheless, movement is crucial! Other options include:

• Listening to music
• Grabbing a snack or drink
• Doodling or drawing
• Simply looking out the window

The key is giving your brain a complete change from revision activities.

Active Revision Strategies

Passive re-reading is one of the least effective revision methods. Instead, try these active approaches:

• Take Notes: Summarize key concepts in your own words
• Use Flashcards: Test yourself on important terms and ideas
• Create Mind Maps: Visualize relationships between concepts
• Teach Others: Explaining material helps solidify your understanding
• Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to seek help when you're unsure
• Summarise and Rephrase: Put information into your own words to reinforce comprehension

Finding Your Personal Approach

The most important aspect of revision is discovering what works specifically for you. Some students thrive in complete silence, while others prefer studying with friends. Some need visual aids, while others learn better through discussion. Experiment to find your optimal approach.

Balance Is Key

Finally, remember that effective revision doesn't mean studying every single day of the Easter break. Give yourself some genuine downtime too—life is all about balance!

Good luck with your revision, and remember: starting is always the hardest part, but once you begin, you'll find your rhythm.