How to avoid ineffective revision techniques

When it comes to revision time, there are a number of common pitfalls that people may face when they get into revising mode.

Take a look at our advice below, on what these are, how to avoid these issues, and what you should really be doing instead…

When planning and reading for a part of the course, write alternative essay titles on separate pages, jot brief notes or page references to material under each title.
Also make your notes readable, attractive and visually compelling as you go through the course – this builds the memory.
If possible, start to over-learn names, dates and key details from index cards at odd moments early in the term. Even if you forget them they will be easier to learn a second time round.

Instead of falling into this trap, use creative and interactive strategies to keep your mind alert. This also helps to integrate information.
Also, instead of just reading, read in order to find out. The best way to do this is to look for material related to possible exam answers. Ask in the library for past exam papers for your course, and invent your own questions.
Discuss past exam questions to make the process more interesting
Time yourself writing some essays without looking at your notes. This not only shows you which areas need more work, but helps to increase your handwriting speed and your ability to think and write under pressure.

Working to different essay plans develops your thinking about the subject
Some people find that rewriting notes interferes with the visual recall of their original set of notes. For them it is preferable to develop a good complete set of notes, plus a series of index cards.
Reduce information to a series of memory triggers. Reduce a set of triggers to one key word or image.

Time consuming and counterproductive, it is unlikely that the identical question will come up in your exam, so don’t waste your time
It is better to spend time reflecting on and practicing a range of answers, so that you over learn the material.

Make a revision timetable which leaves empty spaces to cater for emergencies
Do a spell of revision before each ‘urgent task’
Use watching television or other distractions as a reward, and put them into your timetable.
If you miss company, try revising with other students, or involve others in your revision.

Work for lots of shorter spells
Add interactive learning techniques and variety into your revision to keep you interested
Invent an essay or a test for yourself

From the IET