Revision Techniques
“Failing to Prepare is preparing to fail”
Take steps to ensure that the basics are in place – give yourself time and space to work
in comfortably. Find out as much as possible about the exam in order to help your
revision; for example, how many questions/topics, how long it will be, etc) This way
you’ll be able to revise more realistically.
How To’s:

Build an achievable work plan into your existing routine.

Organise your work space so that you know where everything is

Make your revision as active as possible: compile content summaries, study
previous exam questions, predict future exam questions and read back out-load to
yourself.

Keep inactive revision to a minimum: reading notes and highlighting text.

Create summary’s of topic areas using a variety of displays with accessible and easy
visual impact (mind maps, spidergraphs). Display on walls, folders, fridge etc for
visibility.

Access past papers to familiarise yourself with layout and content but also so you
can practice answering timed questions.

Discuss/debate issues with friends – this will get you thinking and help exercise
analytical thought.

Get someone to test you – for theories, dates, facts, phrases etc.

Write key information on index cards and test yourself!

Pen out quotes and put them up in your bedroom

Make sure lecture notes are legible and usable

Take healthy notes at lectures to keep your written pace strong

Be in tune with your preferred learning style – if you lean to an auditory learning
style, then try revising with background music on.

Be mindful of what examiners will be looking for: Evidence of reading,
understanding, ability to connect content and ability to structure argument.
Verity Aiken
LTA (Crim)
02/05