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How to revise: Top tips to prepare for exam season.

It's that time of year... revision season is here again. But there's no need to panic, we’ve gathered a wealth of revision tips and wellbeing advice from our current students; so here it is, from one generation of Essex students to the next. Don't worry, we've got your back!

Revision tips from current Essex students

Use past papers available online.

Do plenty of past papers that are available online so that you can familiarise yourself with the mark scheme. It’s also good to practice in timed conditions so you are less nervous when it comes to the real exam.

Eniola, BA Business Management with a Modern Language, Second Year

Quiz yourself with flashcards.

Write questions on flash cards with the answer on the other side and get someone to quiz you. Learn the marking criteria to see what the examiner is specifically looking for. Finally, make use of a range of different resources e.g., videos, past papers, revision cards, textbooks, mind maps etc.

Aimee, BA Sociology with Social Psychology, Third Year

Approach revision in stages.

Go through the material once without trying to learn everything, just get a basic idea of what the subject is. Then after a few days go back and read it again and this time create notes of what you think is important. Finally, go over your notes once more to ensure that you have understood everything.

Michael, BSc Business Management (Including Placement Year), Second Year

Set yourself a realistic schedule.

I would recommend a study schedule that is realistic, and you know you can stick to. Also give yourself time to relax so you can stay motivated when you get back to studying.

Belle, BA Journalism and Literature, Second Year

Study with friends.

When I was revising, I found it helpful to study with friends. You can quiz each other, do activities together, or even just study in silence. But it’s great to have another person who can help you fill in any gaps in your knowledge.

Maddie, BA International Relations, Second Year

Try different methods to find the one that's right for you.

Pay attention to the method in which you retain information the best; as a visual learner, a lot of diagrams and summary videos help me. Active recall is absolutely necessary; teaching someone else or even talking about the subject to a friend could help you remember and understand the key information better.

Alicia, BA English Language and Modern Languages, Third Year

Eliminate distractions, like your phone.

Before you begin your studies make sure to plan how long you want to study for and divide your time accordingly. Make sure to eliminate all distractions such as your phone, TV etc.

Nkosi, BSc Economics, Second Year

Attend the 2025 Essex Revision Camp, 14-15 April

Prepare for your exams by attending our non-residential revision camp

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Find out more about why you should be calling Essex home in 2025 Learn more about the student support services available at Essex

How to deal with revision stress

We know that revision can be stressful and we understand the pressure, we really do. But you need to remember that looking after yourself is your top priority throughout revision and exam season, here’s how:

Sleep. This is crucial, nobody benefits from sleep deprivation, especially not for revision. So make sure you get your eight hours as often as possible.
Take breaks. Recognise your own pace and stick with it. Challenging yourself is one thing, pushing yourself beyond your limit is something else. Give your body and mind time and space to recover.
Exercise. You might want to hit the gym, play squash, practice yoga or just go for a walk? Exercise is like an antidote to stress. You don’t need to enter next year’s marathon, it’s just about taking some time to look after yourself.
Be honest with those around you. Don’t be afraid to lean on friends – you’re all in the same boat and a problem shared is a problem halved. And don’t underestimate your family’s support either, you are surrounded by people that love you. Don’t hide your struggles from them.
Seek help if things are too much. Revision stress is very normal and natural, however, if you feel like it’s really getting on top of you and you’re finding everyday life a struggle then reach out and seek help.
And after all this don’t forget that if your worst case scenario does happen and you don’t get the grades you were hoping for, there’s always Clearing. It’s not the end of the world, we promise!

And don't forget to feed your brain...

An empty stomach and revision are not a good match. Keep your stomach full of the right stuff and you’ll be ready to tackle it all. According to our students, your cupboard should be stocked with:

Nuts – almonds and walnuts to be exact.
Dark chocolate and fruit (and then more chocolate).
Carbs, carbs, carbs; including pasta, sandwiches and biscuits!
Your favourite biscuits, need we say more?
Fish and broccoli to really feed that brain of yours.
And don’t forget to treat yourself, whether that’s a large breakfast to set you up for the day or tasty snacks to reward your progress.

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