Saturday, March 1, 2025 | Uncategorized

GCSEs are a big deal, but smart revision can make all the difference. Here are five research-backed tips to help your child study effectively:

1. Go Beyond Homework

The exercises set by teachers as homework usually cover the current topic. But you also need to review the topics you studied months ago. And then test in exam conditions. Research shows that active recall—retrieving information from memory—is far more effective than passive review (Roediger & Butler, 2011). Encourage your child to test themselves rather than just re-reading notes: do mock exams, use self-marking tools like Quizlet or do a Q&A together! 

2. Use a Weekly Planner

Structured revision beats cramming. Help your child create a realistic schedule that balances schoolwork, revision, and downtime. Some weeks (with INSET days or days off school) will have more time, some will have less. 

3. Make It Active

Simply reading isn't enough. Techniques like self-quizzing, teaching someone else, and summarizing key points in different ways boost retention (Dunlosky et al., 2013). Get them to explain a topic out loud—if they struggle, they need to review it again.

4. Factor in Real-Life Commitments

Burnout helps no one. Exercise and social time improve focus and cognitive function (Ratey & Hagerman, 2008). Make sure your child’s revision plan includes breaks, sports, and relaxation. If they have a lot of extracurricular commitments, you need to be realistic about when they will have energy to revise.

5. Get Expert Help

Personalised tutoring can target weak areas and reinforce strong ones. If your child needs extra support, I'm here to help them gain confidence and master tricky topics.

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