With exam season fast approaching, the pressure to revise, retain information, and perform well is mounting. Preparing for exams, whether GCSEs or A levels, can be a source of major stress for students. That’s why Highgrove Online School recently hosted an expert-led webinar featuring David Hodgkinson (Head of Coaching), Harry Williams (Head of Maths), and Jonathan Shields (Head of Economics). Together, they shared invaluable advice on how to prepare effectively, manage stress, and understand how to think like an examiner.
Here’s a breakdown of their top tips to help you ace your exams.
1. Start Early, Plan Wisely
Think of exam prep like training for a race: it takes time, dedication, and structure. One of the biggest mistakes students make is waiting too long to get started. The earlier you begin, the more time your brain has to absorb, recall, and connect ideas.
It’s not just about “doing revision;” it’s about planning what you’re going to revise and how. Set specific goals for each study session. Instead of saying, “I’ll revise Chemistry,” try “I’ll focus on bonding and complete past paper questions on ionic and covalent bonds.”
2. Engage Deeply with the Content
Passive reading won’t cut it. You need to do something with the material. Summarise it in your own words, make mind maps, teach it to someone else, or test yourself. The key is active recall or bringing information to mind without looking at your notes, and spaced repetition, revisiting content over time so it sinks into your long-term memory.
Memorisation isn’t about cramming the night before. As Mr. Shields put it, “Memorisation needs to be at a level where it’s embedded in your long-term memory.”
- Use Smart Techniques Like Pomodoro
Mr. Williams highlighted the Pomodoro Technique, a favourite among productivity gurus. It’s simple: study for 25–30 minutes, then take a short break (5–10 minutes). After a few cycles, take a longer break. This keeps your mind sharp and prevents burnout.
And yes, short YouTube breaks are allowed as long as you come back to your work.
4. Tackle Negative Thoughts Head-On
Worried you haven’t covered a topic or scared a tough question might appear? Write those worries down and use them to shape your revision. That anxiety can be turned into action. Confronting what you don’t know helps you fill the gaps.
Also, remember why you’re doing this, whether it’s to get into university, pursue a dream career, or prove something to yourself. Reconnecting with your “why” can help power you through low-motivation days.
5. Master Exam Technique
Here’s something most students don’t realise: exams test more than your knowledge. They assess your skills— analysis, evaluation, application— and your ability to follow instructions.
- Learn what command words like “explain,” “evaluate,” and “compare” mean.
- Understand the assessment objectives behind each question.
- Highlight or underline key information in questions before answering.
- Always show your work— your examiner isn’t a mind reader.
If you think of something useful, write it down. No matter how brilliant your idea is, it won’t count unless it’s on the page.
6. Use Feedback Wisely
Your teachers spend time giving you thoughtful, specific feedback. Use it. Reflect on where you lost marks and apply those lessons to your revision and practice papers. It’s one of the fastest ways to improve.
7. Sleep and Rest Matter
Staying up all night cramming before your exam is not a good strategy. You need rest to perform at your best. Sleep helps your brain consolidate everything you’ve revised, and a well-rested mind is far better at handling pressure and thinking clearly.
8. Give It Your All— and Then Let Go
Finally, remember this: it’s important to do your best. As long as you come to the end of the examination and feel that you’ve given it your all, that’s the most anyone can ask of you. Stay focused, work hard, take care of yourself and when it’s over, be proud of how far you’ve come and what you’ve accomplished.
Final Thoughts
Exams are tough, but you’re tougher. With the right strategies, mindset, and support, you can rise to the challenge. Thanks to the expert insights from Highgrove Online School, you now have a solid foundation to start building your success.
Want more tips and resources? Follow Highgrove Online School for upcoming webinars, revision support, and expert-led sessions throughout the year.
You can find the webinar recording of “Acing Exam Techniques” on our website.
