IF YOU’RE in exam prep mode right now… first of all, take a breath. You’re not alone in this, and you can get through it.
We are caught up with one of our wellbeing advisors to get some simple, realistic tips to help you stay on track.
📚Revision done right

Make a plan (future you will thank you)
Winging it?
Try this instead!
Break your subjects into smaller topics and map out a revision plan. It makes everything feel way more manageable and stops last-minute panic.

Keep your revision session short
You don’t need to revise for 5 hours straight.
Try 20–30 minute focused sessions, then take a proper break. Your brain will absorb way more this way.

Take breaks (seriously)
Breaks aren’t lazy – they’re essential.
Step away, grab a snack, scroll a bit, go outside… then come back refreshed.

Find your revision style
Not everyone learns the same way.
Try:
- mind maps / spider diagrams
- flashcards
- watching videos
- teaching someone else
- making notes in your own words
Find what works for you and stick with it.

Don’t just read – get active
Reading pages and pages = zoning out 😴
Instead:
- quiz yourself
- rewrite key points
- explain topics out loud
The more you engage with it, the more it sticks.

Past papers are your best friend
If you do one thing – do this.
Practising real exam questions helps you:
- understand the format
- manage your time
- feel way more confident

Keep notes simple
You don’t need to rewrite the textbook.
Stick to:
- bullet points
- key ideas
- stuff you actually understand
If you can explain it simply, you’ve got it.
💙 Don’t forget about YOU
Revision matters, but so do you.
- Stay hydrated
- Get enough sleep
- Move your body / get outside
- Eat properly
- Talk to someone you trust
Your friends are probably feeling the same – don’t bottle it up.

Night before the exam = prep mode
Reduce stress by getting organised:
- pack your bag
- check your timetable
- get everything ready
Less chaos in the morning = calmer start.

What to do in the exam
Take a breath first
Before you start, pause.
Read every question properly -don’t rush or skim.
Manage your time smartly
- start with questions you feel confident on
- come back to the tricky ones later
- remember: you don’t have to go in order

After the exam
Once it’s done… it’s done.
- take a break (you’ve earned it)
- do something relaxing
- don’t overanalyse every answer
and remember this 👇
One exam does not define you.
If it didn’t go how you hoped that’s okay.
Also – post-exam chats can be loud.
Don’t compare yourself. It won’t help.
Remember, we have wellbeing advisors at each campus to support you
They can support, guide, and help you through your exams so if you’re feeling the stress – reach out to them.
Photo credit: The Bath & Wiltshire Parent/Anna Barclay Â