The St. Paul’s Foundation presents “Specialist insights”, a section in which an education specialist takes over our blog to bring insights and discuss important topics of the field for pupils and parents. In this edition, Mr Sam Bishop, Assistant Head of Learning & Teaching at St. Paul’s School, shares advice for students on how to improve their revision methods and becoming a better independent student. He is also the Assistant Head of Scholarships and plays a key role in supporting the foundation pupils through their journey at school.
Mastering independent study: Tips for effective revision
By Mr Sam Bishop, Assistant Head of Learning & Teaching at St. Paul’s School
As our Form 5 and Upper 6 pupils enter study leave to prepare for their IGCSE and IB exams [chamar para artigo do blog explicando o que são estes diplomas], independent study becomes a crucial part of their academic success.
However, these study strategies are not just for pupils preparing for these exams — anyone looking to improve their approach to independent learning can benefit from them.
Whether you are preparing for a major assessment or simply looking to enhance your study habits, these practical tips will help you revise more effectively and manage your time efficiently:
- Get ready to revise
Before you begin studying, make a list of the subjects that you study and a summary of the topics for each subject. This will help you stay organised and ensure that you don’t overlook important areas.
- Create a revision timetable
Once you have outlined your subjects and topics, structure your study time with a timetable. An important factor in managing stress is being able to see a clear and manageable way forward so that you are prepared in time for the exam. Celebrate your revision timetable and have it visible in your study room.
- Manage tour time effectively
Time management is key when revising. The Pomodoro technique —working in focused intervals (e.g., 25 minutes of study followed by a short break) — is highly effective as it helps you manage your time on a task without distractions.
- Use active revision strategies
Simply reading notes is not enough. Engage with the material actively by using mind maps, flashcards, quizzes, and practice paragraphs.
- Space out your practice
Spreading out study sessions is far more effective than last-minute, intensive studying. For example, five hours of revision over two weeks is better than five hours all at once. Take that into consideration when preparing your timetable.
- Use concrete examples
Finding and using specific examples help deepen your understanding. Applying concepts to real-world situations or case studies makes them easier to remember.
- Dual coding helps things stick
Diagrams, timelines, graphs, and illustrations can help you retain information more effectively. Even using gestures or movements to associate with concepts can improve recall.
- Take care of yourself
Your well-being is just as important as your study schedule. Prioritise good nutrition, exercise, and sleep. Avoid revising right before bed, as this can affect your rest. Build in small rewards and breaks to stay motivated, and if you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to talk to someone.
By incorporating these study techniques, you can make your independent learning more productive and manageable. No matter what you are preparing for, an effective study routine will set you up for success!