Making Revision Easier: Start Small and Build Up

We all know that revision is important, but actually getting started can feel like a huge challenge. You might look at your notes and feel overwhelmed, unsure where to begin. The good news? You don’t have to dive in at the deep end straight away. Instead, start with small, manageable steps and build up from there. Before you know it, revision will become second nature, and you won’t have to battle with yourself to do it.

Why Starting Small Works

One of the biggest mistakes students make is waiting until exams are just around the corner to start revising. At that point, panic sets in, and you feel like you have to cram hours of study into each day. This is not only stressful but also far less effective than a steady, consistent approach.

Instead of trying to do everything at once, start with something easy. How about just five minutes of revision, three days a week? That sounds doable, right? It’s a low-pressure way to ease yourself in, and once you get used to it, you can gradually increase the time and frequency. Small wins build confidence, and before long, you’ll find revision is just part of your routine.

Turning Revision into a Habit

Habits are powerful because they remove the need for willpower. Think about brushing your teeth—it’s something you do without thinking because it’s a habit. The same can be true for revision, but only if you make it a regular part of your week.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Start Small: Five minutes, three times a week. Keep it simple.

2. Make It Easy: Choose a time when you’re not too tired or busy.

3. Stick to It: Consistency is key. Even when you don’t feel like it, just do the five minutes.

4. Build Gradually: Once five minutes feels easy, stretch it to ten. Then fifteen.

5. Reward Yourself: Acknowledge your progress and give yourself small rewards to stay motivated.

The Importance of Rewarding Yourself

Rewarding yourself is essential to keeping up motivation and making revision feel less like a chore. When you celebrate small achievements, your brain associates studying with positive reinforcement, making it easier to stick to your routine. Rewards can be anything that makes you happy, such as a treat, an episode of your favourite show, a short break outside, or some time on social media. The key is to make sure the reward is something you genuinely enjoy and that it doesn’t completely derail your progress.

The Benefits of Early Revision

By starting early and making revision a habit, you avoid the last-minute stress that comes from cramming. You’ll retain information better, feel more confident, and be able to go into your exams with a clear, focused mind.

So, don’t wait until exam season is looming to start revising. Take five minutes today and set yourself up for success. The hardest part is getting started—but once you do, it only gets easier!