How to revise and remember the lesson

Revising for tests, exams, or any other form of assessment can be stressful or even anxiety-producing. However, with a few changes to how you go about revising, you might just find yourself swapping anxiety for anticipation.

Find somewhere suitable to study. Any revision place needs to be comfortable (but not too cozy that you fall asleep), quiet and free of distractions. Some people like to choose one place only, while others enjoy moving between the almost distraction-free environment of home to the slightly more alive atmosphere of the library. Choose whatever works most for you and isn't going to be interrupted by anyone else wanting to use the same space.
Ensure that your chair is ergonomically correct, your desk height is comfortable for you and the computer is level with your eyes. Check if the lighting is adequate and the room isn't too hot or cold.


Draw up a plan or timetable for your revision and be prepared to stick to it. Working to a revision timetable helps you to make clear goals of attainment for each revision session and reassures you that you've checked off what needs to be covered during revision. Revision plans have been shown time and again to reduce revision anxiety to those who follow them because there is always something for you to turn to and a reassurance that you're doing everything in good time.
It is recommended that you write the revision plan by hand. You can print out its background form but write by hand. The connection between the brain and the hand is a way of helping you to stay in control and to memorize what needs to be done with more depth than simply typing and printing.
Set reasonable targets that you know you can reach. Make sure to check them off as you accomplish them. It may even be a good idea to reward yourself with a treat on the completion of a target to help you get there. It is a good motivation to never consider giving up as an option.
Include times for meals, breaks and anything unrelated to studies. And don't forget to sleep!
Leave spare time in case something happens, such as a short illness or a family emergency. If you don't need this time, turn it into re-revising time. (See below.)
Know or guesstimate how much time is needed for revising each topic––that way, you can allot plenty of time in the timetable.
Leave space for final re-revision just prior to the test or exam. This isn't about going over each topic in detail––it's simply added time for one last going over the material and reassuring yourself that it's all ordered in your mind.
Social arrangements should be kept to a minimum; you can enjoy the entertainment after your studies.