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- 4 Key Maths Exam Preparation Tips
Struggling with your Maths? It's time to hit that ace!
LikeOne of the things which most secondary school students like me can relate to is the absolute PAIN that is exams, specifically Mathematics. Whether it's your regular school exams, GCSEs or A-Levels, everyone has experienced the immense stress formed before, during and after the exam period. This stress can be mental and physical, in various forms. Whether it be making dozens upon dozens of cards or notes on maths techniques, testing yourself with question upon question, or actually doing the exams and then waiting on the results, there's plenty of trouble in store! Revision is always key to getting those top marks, but sometimes students don't get the full picture on how to revise effectively.
This is why I'm here! Here is a list of my top tips on how to smash your revision!
1. Pick the correct methods.
If you're gearing up for an exam, it's crucial to figure out which revision methods work best for you. Understanding how you can memorise mathematical concepts, techniques, and formulas is key, especially if memorising doesn't come naturally to you. I find that using mind maps, pocket revision cards, and practice questions are the most effective ways to keep my revision organized, focus on what needs more attention, and retain information until the big day.
2. Make it fun!
Students often find revision boring, and this leaves them at risk of procrastination. After all, Fortnite is better than revision cards, right? However, it doesn't have to be that way! The best way to prevent procrastination is to make your revision seem like a game or adventure as well! I often make my notes in the style of mini-cartoons so that I can be more engaged when revising! In addition, another thing I do is that I find maths games online that help me revise, such as Blooket or Quizlet!
3. Manage your time well.
Revision can't take up all your time. If it did, then it would turn into a very big double-edged sword! Revising for too long each day will create enough stress to make it counter-productive. Thus, you need to manage your time carefully. I find that organising my revision into a checklist or schedule is the best way to organise my time. The best way to revise is "little and often" — around 15 minutes each day, for each subject. This amounts to at least 1 or 2 hours of revision per day. I used this method, and it meant I managed to remember everything I needed to know for the exams!
4. Fight that stress!
Stress is going to be an issue. Some stress is useful to help you keep on task, but too much can make it difficult to revise or stay focused before or during exam periods. Thus, you need a method to try and reduce that stress during maths exams! Many students choose to fill their time with online gaming, but that's a terrible idea. It will only increase that stress further! You need more tranquil methods to stay calm and fight stress. For example, I tend to practice my piano skills or meditation between revision sessions each day.
In conclusion, revision for your exams will always be very useful. However, it will be more effective if it is managed well, if there is as little stress as possible and if it is engaging and ideal for you. This is how you ace your exams.
