Exams can be stressful, and one of the most common questions students ask is: When should I start revising? The truth is, the earlier you begin, the better prepared you’ll be. However, the timing and strategy of revision depend on several factors, including the exam type, your current knowledge, and your study habits. Let’s break it down.
Understanding Your Exam Schedule
This sixth form in Cambridge suggests that before you can plan revision, you need a clear understanding of your exam timetable. Make a note of all your exam dates and the subjects you need to cover. Some exams require more preparation than others, so prioritising accordingly is crucial. For instance, subjects like Mathematics or Sciences often need daily practice, while essay-based subjects like English or History may benefit from long, focused revision sessions closer to the exam.
Start Early, But Don’t Panic
A common recommendation is to begin revising six to eight weeks before your exams. This timeframe gives you enough room to review all topics without cramming. Starting early allows you to break your revision into manageable chunks, revisit challenging areas multiple times, and gradually build confidence.
Starting early doesn’t mean you have to study for hours every day. Even 30–60 minutes daily can be highly effective if focused. The key is consistency—small, regular revision sessions are far more effective than one last-minute marathon.
Create a Revision Timetable
A timetable is your roadmap to stress-free revision. Start by listing all topics for each subject and estimate how long each will take to revise. Then, spread these sessions across the weeks leading up to your exams. Be realistic about your time and energy levels—avoid scheduling heavy revision late at night if you know you’re not alert.
Including short breaks between sessions is essential. The brain retains information better when it has time to rest and consolidate knowledge. The Pomodoro technique—25 minutes of focused study followed by a 5-minute break—can be particularly effective.
Focus on Weak Areas
Early revision is also the perfect time to identify your weak areas. By testing yourself on different topics, you can see which ones need more attention. This ensures that when the exams approach, you’re not wasting precious time trying to learn entirely new concepts. Instead, you’ll be fine-tuning your understanding and practising exam-style questions.
Allow Time for Revision Consolidation
In the final week or two before exams, your focus should shift from learning new material to consolidating knowledge. This is when you review summaries, practice past papers, and refine your exam technique. Starting revision early ensures you have this valuable consolidation period without the stress of last-minute cramming.
In short, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to when you should start revising. Ideally, begin six to eight weeks in advance, create a structured timetable, focus on weaker areas, and allow time for consolidation. Early and consistent revision reduces stress, improves retention, and boosts your confidence—putting you in the best position to succeed.