Let’s be honest – revision season can feel like a rollercoaster of caffeine, procrastination, and existential dread. But it doesn’t have to be all late-night cramming and panicked highlighting. With the right revision strategies (and a solid plan), you can tackle exams feeling confident, focused, and even a little smug.
Whether you’ve been revising since Week 1 (kudos to you) or you’re just opening your notes now (no judgement), we’ve pulled together five tried-and-tested techniques to help you study smarter, not harder.
1. The Pomodoro Technique – Break It Down
Ever sat down to revise and found yourself staring blankly at your laptop 45 minutes later? Yeah, same. That’s where the Pomodoro Technique comes in.
How it works:
- Study for 25 minutes (set a timer)
- Take a 5-minute break
- Repeat 4 times
- Then, take a longer break (15-30 mins)
This method keeps your brain sharp and stops burnout before it hits. Try pairing it with a study playlist and a fresh coffee – chef’s kiss.
Neo Tip: Grab a study room (available at Palamon, Rhodaus and Currus). They’re perfect for zoning in when you need to focus and zoning out when you need a reset.
2. Active Recall – Your Brain’s Favourite Workout
Highlighting your notes in five different colours might feel productive, but it’s not always effective. Active recall is where the magic happens.
Instead of rereading, ask yourself questions and test your memory:
- Use flashcards (apps like Anki or Quizlet are great)
- Teach someone else the topic (if you can explain it, you know it)
- Create mini quizzes for yourself
It’s a bit tougher, sure – but it sticks way better.
Neo Tip: Fancy a bit of fresh air while you study? Neo residents, head to the open-air atrium at Currus Court. It’s a private, peaceful spot where you can revise in the sun and stay focused.
3. Past Papers – The MVP of Revision Tools
One word: practice. Exam papers from previous years are gold dust. They show you:
- What kind of questions might come up
- How to structure your answers
- Where your weak spots are
Plus, timing yourself helps with exam-day confidence. No more mad dashes to finish the last 10-marker.
Neo Tip: Print out your past papers and tackle them in our private study booths. You’ll feel like you’re already in the exam room – minus the invigilator glare.
4. The Blurting Method – Fast, Raw, Effective
This one’s a little chaotic, but it works. Blurting is all about speed and spontaneity.
Here’s how:
- Pick a topic
- Write down everything you know without looking at your notes
- Check your gaps
- Fill them in
- Repeat later
It helps you see precisely what’s stuck and what needs a little more love. Think of it like a brain dump with purpose.
Neo Tip: Need a change of scene to quiz your flatmates or teach them a concept? Try revising on the Palamon steps – they’re perfect for group discussions and casual study sessions.
5. Look After Your Brain – It’s Doing A Lot
Revision isn’t just about what you study – it’s how you look after yourself while doing it. That means:
- Sleeping at least 7 hours a night
- Drinking plenty of water (iced coffee doesn’t count, sorry!)
- Getting fresh air and moving your body
- Eating food that isn’t just toast and pesto (we see you)
Burnout is real. Breaks are part of the process, not a luxury.
Neo Tip: Our wellness suite is here if revision stress hits hard. Whether you need a quiet moment, a chat with Lara (our amazing Wellbeing Officer), or just a space to breathe, we’ve got you.
Exams Aren’t Everything…
… but smashing them feels good. With a few solid strategies in your back pocket – and the right environment to back you up – you’re setting yourself up for success.
At Neo Students, we know your surroundings matter, and that’s why we’ve designed our social spaces to help you focus, recharge, and stay productive (without having to fight over plug sockets).
You’ve got this. And we’ve got you.
