4 steps to successful revision

Step 1: Understand

Study the topic to be learned slowly. Make sure you understand the logic or important concepts Mark up the text if necessary - underline, highlight and make notes Re-read each paragraph slowly.

Step 2: Summarise

Now make your own revision note summary:

- What is the main idea, theme or concept to be learned? - What are the main points? How does the logic develop? - Ask questions: Why? How? What next?

Use bullet points, mind maps, patterned notes Link ideas with mnemonics, mind maps, crazy stories Note the title and date of the revision notes

(e.g. Business Studies: Marketing, 3rd March)

Organise your notes carefully and keep them in a file.

This is now in short term memory. You will forget 80% of it if you do not go to Step 3. GO TO STEP 3, but first take a 10 minute break.

Step 3: Memorise

Take 25 minute learning bites' with 5 minute breaks After each 5 minute break test yourself:

Cover the original revision note summary Write down the main points Speak out loud (record on tape) Tell someone else Repeat many times. The material is well on its way to long term memory.

You will forget 40% if you do not do step 4. GO TO STEP 4

Step 4: Track/Review

Create a Revision Diary (one A4 page per day) Make a revision plan for the topic, e.g. 1 day later, 1 week later, 1 month later. Record your revision in your Revision Diary,

e.g. Business Studies: Marketing, 3rd March 25 minutes Business Studies: Marketing, 5th March 15 minutes Business Studies: Marketing, 3rd April 15 minutes ... and then at monthly intervals.