How to Prepare for a Revision Timetable – Optimising Revision
Around this time of year, students start hearing from their schools and teachers about the importance of creating revision timetables. Assemblies and form time sessions will likely be filled with the same message: “Exams are coming! You need to stay organised and make a revision timetable.” Some schools might even set aside time to create these schedules together.
While this advice is well-intentioned, one of the challenges we face in schools is that many students simply don’t know what makes a good revision timetable, let alone how to stick to it. The time spent in form or lessons often isn’t enough to build strong revision habits, which is why support from parents, guardians, and all adults in a student's life is essential.
Revision timetables can be fantastic tools, but they come with a disclaimer. Just because you make a neat, colour-coded schedule doesn’t guarantee exam success, even if you stick to it religiously. It’s simply one tool to help resist distractions and procrastination. This blog will offer some guidance on how to create a useful revision timetable and, more importantly, how to implement it effectively.
How to Structure a Revision Timetable
A good revision timetable is best kept simple. Below is an example of what a timetable format might look like, followed by some simple steps to complete it. First, list each of the subjects you have exams in. You can allocate roughly one revision slot for each GCSE grade you aim to achieve.
Using this method, you ensure that each subject gets appropriate revision time. Once you've identified the subject allocations, you can begin making your revision timetable.
Map out the times of day when you’re at school.
Block out time for sports, hobbies, or regular social activities with friends. It’s important to have some time for yourself to stay motivated.
Schedule in meal times.
Finally, spread out your revision blocks for each subject across the week. Try to align this with your school lessons when possible to boost efficiency.
Do’s of Implementing a Revision Timetable
Stick to the timetable!
Include a 5-minute break in each session.
Set content-based targets rather than time goals. For example, “I will cover X topic” instead of “I will revise for 60 minutes.” Adjust the length of the session as needed.
Follow a three-stage system for each revision session:
Summarise what you need to know.
Try to recall it (using flashcards, quizzes, or the "look, cover, repeat" method).
Assess your understanding (e.g., with practice questions or by asking someone to test you).
Revise with a focused friend to boost motivation and help with content coverage.
Leave distractions like phones and other devices in another room.
Play calming music (classical or instrumental) to help with concentration and memory retention through association.
Don’ts of Implementing a Revision Timetable
Don’t think, “I can start a bit late.” This could lead to completely abandoning the timetable.
Don’t let a 5-minute break turn into watching an episode of a show, as it might end in binge-watching.
If you have a bad session, don’t feel guilty. Everyone struggles with focus sometimes. Learn from it and improve next time.
Don’t try to cover too much in one session. Smaller chunks are more effective.
Avoid revising with friends who are likely to distract you.
Don’t listen to music with lyrics or anything too upbeat, as it might tempt you to sing or dance instead of studying.
Avoid procrastination!
If you follow these guidelines, you’ll have a much better chance of sticking to your revision timetable. And if you manage to stay focused without staring off into the distance, you’re doing great! Remember, the key to successful revision is to celebrate your progress. When you complete productive sessions, use that momentum to quiet the voice that tempts you to put off revision.
At Bright Path Learning, we put a lot of emphasis on helping students learn how to revise. Finding a tutor is a great way to supplement your schoolwork and independent revision. However, the most important factor in exam success is student motivation. The more you can stay focused on your goals, the better your results will be.
Over the next few weeks, we’ll be posting more blogs on how to revise effectively, so stay tuned!
For any tuition inquiries in core subjects, feel free to get in touch at learn@brightpathlearning.co.uk, and check out our website at www.brightpathlearning.co.uk.
