Exams can be a stressful time for students, but with the right revision strategies, preparation can become more efficient and effective. Many students struggle with where to start, how to structure their study time, and which techniques work best. This guide provides ten proven revision tips that can help students maximise their learning, stay motivated, and feel more confident going into their exams. From creating a structured timetable to using past papers and taking regular breaks, these strategies are designed to improve focus and retention while reducing exam stress. Whether your child is preparing for GCSEs, A-Levels, or entrance exams, or end of term tests these practical tips can make a significant difference in their performance and overall well-being. Before hiring a tutor check that you have all these tips covered.

1. Prioritise Focus Over Hours

Quality matters more than quantity when it comes to revision. Many students believe that spending hours staring at a book equates to effective studying, but without concentration, this time can be wasted. Short, focused study sessions of around 25–40 minutes, followed by a 5–10-minute break, can be far more productive than endless hours of passive reading. The key is active engagement—taking notes, summarising information, and testing oneself.

Minimising distractions is essential. Mobile phones and social media can significantly disrupt focus, so consider putting the phone in another room or using apps like Offtime and Forest to block distractions. Some students benefit from background noise, like instrumental music or white noise, while others need complete silence. Experimenting with different focus techniques can help students find their optimal study conditions.

2. Use Past Papers Effectively

Past papers are one of the most valuable revision tools available. They help students familiarise themselves with the format and types of questions they will encounter in their exams, reducing anxiety and improving confidence. Working through past papers under timed conditions is a great way to refine time management and identify areas that need improvement.

Many exam boards for GCSE and A-level such as Edexcel, AQA, Edexcel and Eduqas provide free access to past papers and mark schemes on their websites. For entrance exam papers refer to our dedicated page with hundreds of past papers. Reviewing mark schemes is just as important as completing the papers, as it helps students understand how marks are awarded and what examiners look for in responses. Additionally, self-marking or discussing answers with a tutor or teacher can highlight common mistakes and areas for further revision.

3. Create a Balanced Revision Timetable

A well-structured revision timetable is essential for covering all subjects and avoiding last-minute cramming. Many students tend to revise subjects they enjoy or find easier, neglecting weaker areas. A balanced timetable ensures that all topics receive adequate attention. Planning revision in advance also reduces stress and makes the workload feel more manageable.

Mornings are often the best time for tackling difficult subjects since concentration levels are at their peak. Encourage students to mix subjects throughout the day to maintain variety and interest. For example, pairing a more challenging subject like Maths with a preferred subject like English can keep motivation high. Using apps like My Study Life or pen-and-paper planners can help students stick to their schedules.

4. Incorporate Rewards and Breaks

Revision can be mentally draining, and students need to look after their well-being during exam season. Scheduling rewards and enjoyable activities can make the process less overwhelming and provide motivation to stick to a study plan. A simple reward system—such as a favourite snack after completing a study session, or an hour of free time after a productive afternoon—can make a big difference.

Breaks should also be planned strategically. Short breaks every 30–40 minutes help prevent fatigue, and longer breaks for socialising, exercise, or relaxation can improve focus in the long run. Encouraging activities like a walk in the park, a trip to the cinema, or even just listening to music can help students recharge and return to their studies feeling refreshed.

5. Consider Personalised Support

For students struggling with certain subjects or topics, personalised tuition can provide the extra support needed to boost confidence and improve performance. A tutor can identify weak areas, provide tailored explanations, and offer strategies to approach difficult questions. This is particularly useful for students aiming for top grades or those who experience exam anxiety.

Many students waste valuable time during exam leave struggling with concepts they do not understand. A few one-to-one sessions with a tutor can clear up confusion quickly and allow students to focus on effective revision. Whether in-person or online, professional tutoring provides structured guidance and personalised feedback, making study time more efficient.

6. Use Effective Study Tools

The right study tools can make revision more engaging and effective. Colourful notes, highlighters, flashcards, and mind maps help students organise information visually, which can enhance memory retention. Flashcard apps like Anki or Quizlet are particularly useful for quick recall of key concepts and definitions.

Encouraging neat and organised notes can also make revisiting material easier. Some students find that rewriting and condensing notes helps reinforce their understanding. Others benefit from voice recordings or summary videos. Finding the right tools that suit an individual’s learning style can significantly enhance revision efficiency.

7. Take Regular, Structured Breaks

Research suggests that studying in short, focused sessions with regular breaks enhances concentration and retention. The Pomodoro Technique—25 minutes of study followed by a 5-minute break—is a popular and effective approach. Longer study sessions should include a 10–15-minute break every hour to prevent mental fatigue.

Physical activity during breaks can boost brain function and reduce stress. Encourage students to go for a walk, do some stretching, or engage in a quick workout. Even a change of scenery, such as stepping outside for fresh air, can improve focus when they return to their studies. Avoiding excessive screen time during breaks is also recommended to prevent eye strain and mental exhaustion.

8. Identify Your Child’s Learning Style

Every student learns differently, and understanding their preferred learning style can enhance revision efficiency. Some students are visual learners and benefit from diagrams, mind maps, and colour-coded notes. Others are auditory learners who remember information better by listening to recordings or discussing topics aloud. Kinesthetic learners, who learn best through hands-on activities, might find interactive exercises, writing summaries, or using a whiteboard more effective.

Encouraging students to experiment with different learning techniques can help them discover what works best. For example, recording themselves explaining a topic and listening back to it can be helpful for auditory learners, while using spaced repetition flashcards can be beneficial for those who need frequent recall practice.

9. Explore Group Revision and Courses

While some students prefer studying alone, others benefit from collaborative learning. Group revision sessions can be a great way to reinforce knowledge through discussion and peer teaching. Explaining a concept to someone else is one of the most effective ways to solidify understanding.

Revision courses, either in-person or online, provide structured support and expert guidance. These courses often focus on exam technique, helping students develop the skills needed to answer questions effectively under timed conditions. If your child enjoys learning in a group setting, a revision course may be a good investment.

10. Have an Exam-Day Strategy

A well-prepared exam strategy can make a significant difference in performance. Encourage students to get a good night’s sleep before their exam, eat a nutritious breakfast, and arrive at the exam venue with plenty of time to spare. Staying calm and confident is crucial—last-minute cramming can often do more harm than good.

Time management during the exam is key. Students should allocate their time wisely, ensuring they leave enough time to check their answers. For essay-based subjects, structuring responses before writing can help maintain clarity and coherence. In multiple-choice or short-answer questions, it’s essential to read instructions carefully and not rush through the paper.

After the exam, encourage students to move on and focus on the next subject rather than dwelling on what went wrong. Exams can be stressful, but a strong strategy can help students stay composed and perform at their best.

For additional strategies on effective revision, visit Cornell University’s Learning Strategies Center and North Carolina State University’s Study Skills Resources.

The post Top 10 Revising Tips | Best Advice for Exams and Tests Revision appeared first on Hampstead and Frognal Tutors.

Effects on Students’ Learning

Let’s start with the pros:

Increased Access to Learning Support

Before AI Chatbots and ChatGPT students could access the internet, ask their teachers/lecturers during school hours or even take up reference with a text book. After school some students have the support of a tutor. Now learners have this super powerful tool that provides detailed answers to questions within seconds. Whether that be an explanation of how to factorise quadratic equations in maths or help with how Shakespeare presents Lady Macbeth in a text extract, learners can now call on the support of ChatGPT.

On-demand access to explanations, resources, and examples, which can fill knowledge gaps quickly across any subject or topic. This makes learning more accessible, especially for those who may not have immediate access to a teacher or tutor.

Improved Independent Learning:

Students may wish to further their interest within a topic or subject or ask for further clarification to deepen understanding. For example one of our students used ChatGPT to ask “Assigning the numbers 1-5 to the following calculation ab x cde how can I deduce that 52 x 431 is larger than 53 x 421 without having to actually carry out the calculation.” AI was able to explain to the learner in an instant and with perfect clarity.Tools like ChatGPT encourage topic or subject. Questions like “Assigning the numbers 1-5 to the following calculation ab x cde how can I deduce that 52 x 431 is larger than 53 x 421 without having to actually do the calculation”.

AI Chatbots such as ChatGPT encourage self-directed learning by allowing students to explore topics and get answers without human assistance. This can empower them to learn at their own pace.

OK so we have a couple of positives but we can’t help but hear about the negatives of AI and how it may transform our lives into a future dystopia. So let’s see what the drawbacks are for students learning with ChatGPT:

Risk of Over-Reliance

Some students may find it all too tempting to input their essay assignment into ChatGPT and simply copy and paste the result. Such tasks set by teachers and tutors are there to help consolidate learning from lessons, develop the students understanding of a subject or topic. Should learners engage too much with AI and not think about the problems that they are solving or engage in critical thinking over dependence on AI will impede the students ability to expand their knowledge.

Teachers and tutors are advising their students, especially in essay based subjects, to test their work with an AI checker. This should help to avoid plagerism and guide students to sensible use of chatbots.

To summarise here some students may become overly dependent on AI tools, bypassing critical thinking or problem-solving and using AI to complete assignments rather than engaging and thinking with their learning material.

Varied Depth of Understanding

During a lesson a tutor can ask questions from the student to continually assess understanding and adjust their teaching accordingly. ChatGPT answers questions asked of it – it is unable to assess a students understanding.

While ChatGPT can provide detailed explanations, it lacks the ability to dynamically assess a student’s understanding and adapt explanations in the way a skilled tutor can.

Focus on Conceptual Learning

Whilst it is tempting to input a question into an AI Chatbot students may accept the answer without thinking it through. An advanced learner would ask further questions to further their level of understanding. For example, a recall of Pythagoras’ theorem may be helpful, however, they would need to know how to apply the formula. We asked ChatGPT “what is the formula for Pythagoras’ Theorem?” and the response was:

“The formula for Pythagoras’ Theorem is:

a^2+b^2=c^2

Where:

• a and b are the lengths of the two legs of a right triangle.
• c is the length of the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle).

This theorem applies only to right-angled triangles.”

The response is very sound, however, students would still need to be able to apply the formula to any given geometric problem. Further questioning and reviewing of examples of Pythagoras’ Theorem would be advisable.

To summarise students often use ChatGPT for quick answers but may not always focus on depth of understanding of concepts, which can hinder long-term retention.

Effects on Demand for Tutoring

ChatGPT is proving to be a very capable learning tool for students so could it replace teachers or tutors? Let’s consider in further detail just how the the demand for tutors could be affected by AI.

Shift in Tutoring Focus

The role of tutors is evolving from providing answers to helping students interpret and critically evaluate AI-generated content. Tutors are increasingly focusing on teaching problem-solving, higher-order thinking, and application of knowledge.

Increased Demand for Personalised Support

While AI is good for general queries, many students still seek personalised guidance that caters to their unique needs, learning styles, and emotional support, which AI cannot replicate.

Decline in Routine or Basic Tutoring

Demand for tutoring for routine skills or straightforward problems might decrease as students turn to AI for quick solutions. However, tutors specialising in advanced subjects such as STEM subjects, A-level Maths and GCSE Computer science or exam strategies may still see strong demand. Hampstead & Frognal Tutors has witnessed continued demand for the Arts subjects such as GCSE English Literature, History and A-level Politics despite the rise in demand of more students taking STEM subjects.

Tutors as Coaches for AI Use

Some tutors are now helping students learn how to effectively use tools like ChatGPT as part of their learning process, ensuring students use these tools responsibly and effectively. For example, one of our 11+ maths tutors was teaching how to divide 6.48 by 0.6 using the method of multiplying both numbers by a power of 10. Following the lesson ChatGPT was able to produce 20 similar questions as a homework exercise in a matter of seconds. The technology is not only helping students become better learners but teachers are improving their practice with the use of AI technology.

Increased Focus on Accountability

With concerns over plagiarism and misuse of AI, some students and parents are turning to tutors to ensure that students genuinely understand the material and can apply their knowledge in assessments.

Conclusion

While ChatGPT can supplement learning and reduce the need for routine tutoring, it cannot fully replace the personalised, adaptive, and empathetic role of a tutor. The demand for tutoring is shifting, with a growing emphasis on advanced learning, critical thinking, and responsible AI use, rather than just rote learning or basic problem-solving. This suggests a complementary role for AI and human tutors in education rather than direct competition.

++

Useful resources:

• OpenAI’s Overview of ChatGPT: A beginner-friendly introduction to what ChatGPT is and how it functions. Ideal for readers new to the concept.
• Digital news and research magazine Edsurge has an interesting article on the best and worst case scenarios of AI in education.

The post What effect is ChatGPT having on student learning and the demand for tutoring? appeared first on Hampstead and Frognal Tutors.

Teacher allocated grades

Because of Covid-19, pupils did not sit public examinations this year. Instead, teachers have determined their GCSE and A Level grades, based on a combination of coursework, mock exams and school essays. Unlike last year, no algorithm will be used – to the widespread relief of schools and parents.  

Schools had to submit grades to exam boards by 18 June, meaning there was as much teaching time as possible before teachers made their assessments. However, it is inevitable that some pupils will be unhappy with their teacher allocated marks.

Can I appeal my grades?

In a situation where you think your child has been given the wrong grade, the first step is to ask their school or college to check whether they have made a mistake. If that is the case, a new grade can be sent to the exam board, which will decide what to do.

If the school insists that the grade is correct, however, things get more complicated. Parents and students cannot submit a request for a review directly to the exam board. Your school or college has to do this for you. The exam board will then review the mark. Be warned, however: any new grade could be higher or lower than the one given on results day.

In England, the deadline to send an appeal to the exam board is 17 September. However, there is an earlier deadline of 23 August for priority appeals – for example, if your child has missed their first choice university because of their results. 

What next? 

If you are unhappy with the result of the exam board appeal, your next port of call is the Exam Procedures Review Service. This is Ofqual’s service for reviewing the decisions made by exam boards on appeals against GCSE, AS, A level and some vocational or technical qualifications results.

The Exam Procedures Review Service cannot review your child’s work or change  their grade. However, they can ask the exam board to look at your appeal again if they think the exam board made a mistake.

Time is of the essence, here. If you think the exam board made a mistake you should apply as soon as possible after you get a final appeal decision. If you wait more than 3 weeks after the decision arrives, you will explain why there was a delay, and the review service might not accept your application.

According to their website, it you want to apply you must email the public enquiries team at public.enquiries@ofqual.gov.uk. The subject line of your email should say ‘EPRS application’.

Resits

No teenager awaiting their exam results wants to hear the word ‘resit’. However, for students who are unhappy this results day, resits are likely to be available. While much depends on the Covid-19, the chief regulator of Ofqual stressed in February that students should have the opportunity to sit an exam if they wish to improve their teacher assessed grade. 

‘The government’s policy is, therefore, that there needs to be a full series of GCSE, AS and A level examinations held in the autumn and I expect Ofqual to make provision for this,’ he said. 

If you think your child would benefit from some one-to-one help ahead of their resits, you can request a free Hampstead and Frognal Tutors consultation here.

Don’t panic

Results day this year will be far from typical. However, all students are in the same boat and there are a variety of ways for teenagers to challenge or improve their grades. Stay calm, look at your options – and good luck!

The post Results Day 2021: What to Expect appeared first on Hampstead and Frognal Tutors.

It has been a tumultuous year for schools. Repeated closures and the sudden introduction of remote learning has put pressure on teachers, students and parents alike. Now – according to the latest government announcement – A Level and GCSE exams are to be replaced with ‘teacher assessment’. Rather than gathering in large exam halls to sit identical test papers this summer, students across the country will be awarded grades by their teachers, based on their school performance. 

Teachers may use papers set by exam boards such as AQA and OCR in order to assess their students. Alternatively, schools and colleges could design their own tests, or use other methods to evaluate their pupils’ performance, such as written assignments or timed essays.

A lot remains to be decided and many questions are still unanswered. Unsurprisingly, many teenagers – together with many parents and teachers – are feeling anxious about the uncertainty. A lot rides on GCSE and A Level results. 

However, there are a range of practical steps you can take to ensure your child is in the best possible position once summer arrives. Based on what we know so far, here are five tips on how to prepare for teacher assessment:

Mock exams

National exams are not going ahead. What’s more, it is currently unclear whether students will be obliged to sit any form of exam in order to receive a GCSE or A Level grade from their teacher. However, a joint consultation run by Ofqual – the exam watchdog – and the Department for Education proposed that teacher assessment should only take ‘evidence-based decisions’ when allocating grades. 

Completing some practice exam papers, therefore, could be a valuable use of teenagers’ time. As well as providing them with an extensive range of sample questions, mock papers will also alert them to areas of improvement and topics they do not fully understand. There are other benefits too. If pupils are presented with written assessments come the summer, they will have already built up their exam technique and time management skills, helping them stand out from the crowd.

Designated study time & space

As Lockdown 3 drags on, it is hard to sustain a sense of routine. However, sticking to a timetable makes it easier for teenagers to keep on top of their school work – and retain a sense of normality. Many schools are running lessons at set times, with some even hosting virtual assemblies. However, it is easy to let bedtimes slip in lockdown, and school screen time can effortlessly merge into social screen time.

How students perform in class and school assignments could well affect their teacher allocated grade. Designated study time, therefore – where teenagers can focus on their work in a distraction-free zone – is crucial. If space at home is an issue, noise cancelling headphones could also be an avenue to explore. 

New study materials

The pandemic has prompted a surge in study materials aimed at school children of all ages. While the BBC has launched ‘Lockdown Learning’ – broadcasting school lessons on television – it has also published useful GCSE revision guides. Meanwhile, Khan Academy and Physics Online are popular with A Level STEM students, and language learners can enjoy free smartphone apps such as Duolingo. 

If you are concerned your child is spending too much of the day staring at a screen, physical revision guides are a useful resource. CGP workbooks are particularly popular, and Pearson Edexcel guides are also very well reviewed.

In a nutshell, anything that builds teenagers’ understanding and skills outside the classroom will shine through during school lessons – and could boost their overall grade.

One-to-one tuition

Many parents are concerned the quality of their children’s education has deteriorated as a result of lockdown. While schools are trying their best in very challenging conditions, it is hard to recreate a classroom – with the group discussions and immediate teacher support – via a screen. Private tuition, tailored to pupil’s individual needs, could help teenagers stay motivated and learning during this tricky period. If you would like to arrange a free consultation, please click here.

Speak to the school

A huge question mark hangs over this year’s GCSE and A Level qualifications. However, there is little to be gained from second guessing government policy. Parents will be relieved to hear that Ofqual’s controversial algorithm, used to moderate grades, will not be used in 2021, according to an announcement by the Secretary of State for Education. (In summer 2020, the government was forced to perform a U-turn over the use of the algorithm, after nearly 40% of A Level marks were downgraded.)

Don’t be afraid to contact your child’s school and find out what is happening. An open dialogue with teachers is likely to ease your mind – and provide more information than the government’e next press briefing. 

The post Teacher Assessment: How to Prepare appeared first on Hampstead and Frognal Tutors.

With school entrance exams and GCSE and A Level mocks just around the corner, you may be wondering how to help your child with exam revision over the Christmas break. No student wants to be glued to their books during yuletide activities, so here are a few suggestions to make holiday schoolwork a little less Grinch-like.

Little and often is key

For children taking the 11+ or the 13+ in January, it is sensible to set aside a little time every day, or every other day, for revision. With younger children, it is important to keep things ticking over as tricky mathematical methods and difficult spellings are easily forgotten over the Christmas break. Short, regular revision sessions are likely to be more effective —and more fun —thanlong stints sitting at a desk.

Plan some treats

Whether it is a trip to the ice rink or a visit to some Christmas markets, make sure to intersperse revision with some festive outings. A few rewards will provide more motivation to study and —more importantly —give children the chance to enjoy their well earned school holiday.  

Get the whole family involved

Nothing is worse than hearing everyone having fun together in the kitchen as you sit staring at a page of trigonometry. Revision doesn’t have to a solitary affair, however: take the time to quiz your child on arithmetic and spelling, and encourage other members of the family —older siblings, aunts, grandparents —to do the same. A maths problem shared is a maths problem halved.

Try to inject some yuletide cheer

Although an 11+ past paper may be the least festive thing known to man, do your best to make it fun. Hunt down some Christmas maths quizzes, or find a Noel themed English comprehension passage. Schoolwork will never be as enjoyable as eating mince pies, but it doesn’t have to be chore.

Schedule in some private tuition

If you have decided to hire a tutor, it is a good idea to timetable in a couple of lessons during the Christmas break. Whether your child is struggling with a particular topic, or is experiencing pre-exam nerves, a tutor will boost their confidence and help clear up their confusion before school starts again in January.  

Play games

For young students, sometimes a game of Scrabble or Trivial Pursuit is just as worthwhile as agonising over a non-verbal reasoning test. Anything that keeps children’s brains active over the holiday is sure to be a good thing —plus Christmas is a time for families to spend quality time together.

Draw up a timetable

If your child has GCSE or A Level mocks in January, encourage them to make a timetable. It is hard for teenagers to know how much progress they are making over the holidays, and a timetable will make them feel like they are making real headway. It is important to be realistic — don’t let them schedule in 14 hours of Chemistry revision on Christmas Eve. But scheduling in a few hours in every day — and marking in some work-free days — is a great way for teenagers to make the most of the Christmas break.  

Set some goals

Whether your child is about to sit the 11+ or an A Level exam, think about some key objectives they should aim to achieve over the holiday. These don’t have to be detailed, but it will help to avoid panic later in the day, and fill your child with a real sense of achievement once Christmas comes to an end.

The post Revising at Christmas | 8 Revision Tips for Exam Prep appeared first on Hampstead and Frognal Tutors.