It’s the final push before exams – here are our top ten revision tips!
Revising for exams like GCSEs and A-Levels can be tough. But with the right tools and strategies, you can absolutely thrive. Whether you use Braille, screen readers or large print, here are our top revision tips for blind and VI students.
1. Make a revision plan
- In a document, write out a list of all the subjects you are taking.
- Divide each subject into topics.
- Put a star or symbol next to the topics you find most challenging. This will help you to identify your weaker areas and to better prioritise your time, so that you focus on these.
2. Establish a good routine
- As humans, our brains all work differently at different times in the day.
- For example, you may be more alert first thing in the morning, or you might be more productive in the evening.
- Either way, find a time that works best for you i.e when your level of concentration is at its highest.
- This will ensure you use your revision time effectively.
3. Create your perfect study space
- Find a quiet room or if this isn’t possible, wear noise cancelling headphones.
- Get the room temperature right and if you rely on light, make sure the room is well-lit.
- Avoid distractions and interruptions e.g. put your phone on Do Not Disturb
- Make sure you are sitting comfortably, ideally in a supportive chair at the right height.
- Remove any clutter from around you.
- Have everything you need such as any notes and revision materials close to hand.
4. Take regular breaks
- Revising in short, focused bursts with regular breaks is generally more effective than long, continuous study sessions.
- This is because it helps to maintain concentration and improve retention of information.
- Everyone is different, but the sweet spot is usually 30-40 minutes of revision with a 5-10 minute break.
- Set timers on your phone to ensure you stick to your schedule.
- Use your breaks effectively e.g. have a snack, move around, listen to some music, whatever makes you feel good
5. Choose revision materials that work for you
- RNIB Bookshare provides schools for free access to textbooks in audio, braille, or large print formats.
- Audible has revision audio books, including study guides for English Language and English Literature, as well as podcasts like “GCSE Study Guides” and “Master the Page”
- Calibre Audio offers free fiction and non-fiction audio books for VI users.
- BBC Bitesize is a great revision site with lots of audio and video content. You can also use the screen reader-friendly mobile app.
- YouTube has lots of brilliant revision channels like Mr Bruff (English); Mr Sables (English); Free Science Lessons; Primrose Kitten (Science); and Hegarty Maths.
6. Make the most of AI: your personal revision buddy
Amazon Alexa
If you have an Alexa, you can use her to help you revise subjects. For example, say “Alexa- revise Physics” and she will ask you questions written by experienced, UK Physics teachers. She has access to over 800 questions that cover every aspect of the 9-1 GCSE specification, and you can even choose AQA, EDEXEL, combined or separate to ensure you only learn the content that is in your exam!
Chat GPT
This highly popular AI tool is available through a web browser or the app, and it is very accessible with a screen reader. In an upcoming post, we will be looking in more detail about how Chat GPT can help you day to day as a VI person. But here are some ways it can assist you with revision:
- Ask it to summarise topics or quiz you on a topic.
- Ask for information or a piece of text to be reworded and explained differently if you don’t understand it.
- Ask it to generate revision flashcards in text format for use with a Braille display or screen reader
7. Revise on the go
- Revision doesn’t always have to be done sat at a desk.
- Change things up by listening to a revision podcast on a walk or during a car journey.
8. Make it fun
- Studying can be boring, but there are ways to make it more engaging.
- Try writing a rap to help you memorise the elements of the Periodic Table.
- Watch a film adaptation of your English set text. You could even have a full-on movie night with popcorn!
- For History, visit museums or exhibitions relevant to your syllabus.
9. Don’t forget about past papers
- Request Braille, large print or digital formats from your school or exam board.
- Practice with a scribe or screen reader if that’s part of your exam arrangements.
- Try to complete the paper in exam conditions, factoring in your extra time if applicable.
- Compare your answers with the marking scheme.
10. Self-care is key
- Set aside time to rest and recharge with days off.
- Reward yourself!
- In between revision, do activities that make you happy.
- Light exercise can help boost concentration and energy.
- Drink lots of water and eat regular meals for optimal brain function.
- Find ways to switch off e.g. have a lovely bath, listen to an audio book, or do some meditation
- Establish a good sleep routine.
- Don’t suffer in silence. If you’re feeling stressed, talk to people you love.
Final tips:
- Avoid cramming for exams. Slow and steady wins the race.
- You’re not alone. Your teachers are there to help.
- Don’t put yourself under pressure. Exams are important, but they are not the be-all or end-all.
- Nothing is as important as you and your mental well-being.
