Good morning Petals!
I can't believe it's been over a month since my last post! So much has happened since then, lots of new ventures which I'll be filling you all in with over the next few posts! The most exciting of all has to be that I've (FINALLY) finished sixth form and sat all of my A-Level exams! I don't think I'll ever get tired of saying that sentence :-)
My exams actually finished on June 7th, quite a lot earlier than most people, so I thought I'd share my top revision tips & hopefully make your exams a wee less scary...
1) COLOUR CODE. This is essential for me, as I have a photographic memory. For instance, I like to keep all quotes in one colour, critical perspectives in another... then in the exam it's much easier to visualise my revision notes. I tend to go a little colour crazy and stock up on bright folders, pens and post it notes... by the time my exams finished, my daily lust on topshop.com had become Paperchase.
2)Set a REALISTIC timetable. Now I don't know about you, but I've never liked the idea of sticking to a strict plan... I'm more of a 'whichever subject is calling me' kind of girl. But trust me, when it comes to A-Levels, you have to create a timetable as there's so much to cover. The key is to be realistic... don't start your schedule super early and plan to write practice essays at 6am. A) Let's face it, who wakes up before 10 voluntarily? and B) if you're already behind before you've even had breakfast, you're more likely to procrastinate for the rest of the day!
3) Keep an eye on your snacking habits & stay hydrated. This is the perfect example of how I give great advice... but very seldom use it. I'll be honest, when I'm in my 'revision zone', I have been know to eat second breakfasts and know that copious amounts of snacks tend to be the only bearable part of revision... but try to maintain a balance & feed your body the nutrients it needs to cope during this stressful time.
4) Find a study buddy. The old proverb 'misery loves company' has never been more relevant. I think it's natural to want to be in the same boat as someone and hear that you're not the only one finding things difficult. Meet at your favourite cafe and just keep reminding each other "this time next week we'll be sat here after our philosophy exam, enjoying d victory drink". It really is the little things that'll keep you going..
5) Create a revision playlist. Now, everybody is different when it comes to listening to music and revising. Personally, having my Ipod on helps get me in the zone and drown out the rest of the world. I tend to stick to laid-back vibes: Cat Stevens, Fleetwood Mac, Corinne Bailey Rae, Paolo Nutini...
6) Have a switch off point. Create a rule that, besides the day before an exam, you won't revise any later than 7pm. At this point, do something to unwind and free your mind. Take your dog for a walk, read a few chapters of your current read or have a relaxing bath. During my exams, I apocalypse-style stocked up on my favourite Lush bubble bars. Over the last few months I've become addicted to their cult classic 'Blue Skies and Fluffy White Clouds'! The bar's named after The Orbs' 1990 hit, another staple to any revision playlist...
Your exams will be over before you know it, so keep pushing yourself... write that timed essay, email your teacher to grade a past paper. Just know that you've done everything in your power to reach your potential, so that you don't spend all summer wishing and worrying!
7) & When it all gets a little too much.. just breathe.
Do you have any revision tips?
