Preparing for resits can be difficult and being away from University and trying to juggle summer work commitments and revision can take its toll. Here are some tips to get you going.....
Revision - Hints and tips
Draw up a realistic timetable by working out a weekly and daily study routine. Don't worry if you have to change and update your plans.
Set definite revision times; sticking to the start and end times will help get you started and keep you focused.
Decide on goals for each session, which you can realistically achieve. Try beginning with a topic you find difficult and ending with an easier one.
Take regular breaks to maintain concentration; five minutes per half-hour can work well.
Read through and summarise your notes, adding more examples and references from other sources. Make connections between topics.
If you have a good visual memory ? make the materials distinctive and memorable by using colours, shapes, graphics and diagrams. If you have a good auditory memory, record information onto audio tape.
Practise writing essay plans from memory and check them against your notes. Practise writing timed essays or long answers to get the hang of the timing.
Check your exam timing; how many pages you can write in the time available? When should you be starting and completing each question on the paper?
Reward yourself to keep up some motivation ? whether it's for sticking to schedule, cracking a hard topic or just making progress.
Health - Hints and tips
Eat healthily and regularly and avoid sugary food; the nutrients will benefit your brain and you'll feel better for it.
Avoid too much caffeine, whether in coffee, tea, fizzy drinks or tablets; caffeine will 'hype' you, make your thinking less clear and wreck your sleep.
Get enough sleep; at least six hours a night. To concentrate you need to be fully rested. Try to do something relaxing for at least an hour before trying to sleep.
Regular moderate exercise will boost your energy, clear your mind and reduce feelings of stress.
Try out some relaxation techniques (maybe even yoga or tai chi). They will help keep you feeling calm and balanced, improve your concentration levels and help you sleep better. Here are some simple techniques to relax your mind and body. They should take only five to ten minutes:
- Have a good stretch and breathe deeply. Then let your shoulders and arms relax into a comfortable position. Shrugging, wriggling and shaking all help your muscles to stop tensing and relax.
- Sit down or lie down. Ease off the tension in your feet, ankles, calves, knees, thighs, chest, arms and neck.
- If you are sitting in a chair, or on the floor, allow yourself to feel as if the chair or the floor is supporting your whole weight, feel yourself letting go.
- Try to be peaceful, loosen your jaw and face. A blank expression will help your face muscles to relax.
