Tips for the revision period

Leave plenty of time to revise so that you don't get into a situation of having to do last minute cramming. This approach will help to boost your confidence and reduce any pre-exam stress as you know you have prepared well.

Develop a timetable so that you can track and monitor your progress. Make sure you allow time for fun and relaxation so that you avoid burning out.

Reward yourself! When you've worked hard for a while, take some time out to do something you enjoy. This will increase your motivation and stop revision seeming too overwhelming.

As soon as you notice your mind is losing concentration, take a short break. You will then come back to your revision refreshed.

Experiment with several alternative revision techniques so that revision is more fun and your motivation to study is high. Often passive revision such as reading notes over and over will feel like you're doing a lot, but in reality you'll be taking very little in. Useful information on different revision techniques can be found here on the Dean of Student's Office webpage.

Try revising with other people from your course. With little in the way of classes, examination period can sometimes become a bit lonely and it can be very productive to bounce ideas off other people and test each other. Just make sure you keep on topic...

Make sure you take a proper lunch break. Pack your books into your bag, go and sit by the lake and enjoy any sunshine that comes your way!

Don't drink too much coffee, tea and fizzy drinks; the caffeine will hype you and make your thinking less clear. Eat healthily and regularly; your brain will benefit from the nutrients. For more info on healthy eating during exams click here

Minimise distractions and try not to procrastinate. If revision gives you an overwhelming desire to clean your room/do the dishes/fill out endless online quizzes, then book yourself a carrel in the library and study where you won't be distracted.

Get up and go to bed at a regular time each day. This will get your body into a rhythm and increase your energy levels.

Some people find it useful to treat their studies a bit like a full time job. Start at a set time reasonably early in the morning, take regular breaks and stop at a set time. This method does prove very effective for a lot of people.

Regular moderate exercise will boost your energy, clear your mind and reduce any feelings of stress. Take a trip to the Sportspark, go for a walk or kick a football round the park with your friends.

Try out some yoga, tai chi or relaxation techniques. They will help to keep you feeling calm and balanced, improve your concentration levels and help you to sleep better.