GCSE Survival Tips

Hi everyone, with GCSEs fast approaching, I thought I’d share a few things that have been helping me manage the stress (because, let’s be honest, we could all use a bit of calm right now).

Stay organised: I know, everyone says this, but having a proper revision timetable really makes a difference. Breaking subjects down into manageable chunks has stopped me from feeling like I’m drowning in revision.

Practice makes perfect: Past papers are your best mate. I’ve been working through them for most subjects, and it’s helped me get used to the exam format

Don’t skip breaks: It’s tempting to power through revision, but trust me, regular breaks actually help you take in more. I usually do 45 minutes of focused revision, then take a 10-15 minute break.

Ask for help: Whether it’s teachers, mates, or even forums like this, don’t hesitate to ask questions. There’s no shame in admitting you’re stuck—it’s better than wasting time in confusion.

Look after yourself: It’s easy to let things like sleep and eating well slip when you’re focused on revision, but you won’t perform well if you’re running on empty.

If anyone else has any advice or is struggling with something specific, drop it here! Let’s help each other out!

Reply 1

AhsokaTano-

You might not wanna talk to teachers for help, but trust me, their job is literally to help you

Know how you revise best - my way is using quizzes and stuff like seneca and quizlet

Reply 2

Ololade1

Original post

by Cecilia nyandoro

Hi everyone, with GCSEs fast approaching, I thought I’d share a few things that have been helping me manage the stress (because, let’s be honest, we could all use a bit of calm right now).
Stay organised: I know, everyone says this, but having a proper revision timetable really makes a difference. Breaking subjects down into manageable chunks has stopped me from feeling like I’m drowning in revision.
Practice makes perfect: Past papers are your best mate. I’ve been working through them for most subjects, and it’s helped me get used to the exam format
Don’t skip breaks: It’s tempting to power through revision, but trust me, regular breaks actually help you take in more. I usually do 45 minutes of focused revision, then take a 10-15 minute break.
Ask for help: Whether it’s teachers, mates, or even forums like this, don’t hesitate to ask questions. There’s no shame in admitting you’re stuck—it’s better than wasting time in confusion.
Look after yourself: It’s easy to let things like sleep and eating well slip when you’re focused on revision, but you won’t perform well if you’re running on empty.
If anyone else has any advice or is struggling with something specific, drop it here! Let’s help each other out!

Blurting has helped me most, shut the book, write everything you know on a topic, then fill gaps in another color. I also do timed mini mocks at the same hour as the real exam to get my body clock right, and I practice handwriting speed/layout so I don’t lose marks to messy answers. Set tiny targets like 15 marks in 20 minutes, then check the mark scheme to see where you actually score.Weirdly, I got this habit from reading about US shelter locations. The whole plan ahead mindset made me build checklists, backups, and routes for exam days too.