Good studying techniques in doing good in exams?

In order to perform good in my next AS level mocks, would reading class notes, reading flashcards consistently and spamming PPQs work in order to secure As for AS.

Last mocks was disappointing because I didn't study sooner and also copied notes instead of using active recall?

Also are there any other methods of studying for 3 sciences + econ? For chem I used blurting which was the exam I did better in.

Reply 1

mcollins08

Original post

by bernardlau

In order to perform good in my next AS level mocks, would reading class notes, reading flashcards consistently and spamming PPQs work in order to secure As for AS.
Last mocks was disappointing because I didn't study sooner and also copied notes instead of using active recall?
Also are there any other methods of studying for 3 sciences + econ? For chem I used blurting which was the exam I did better in.

Hi!! I'm in year 11 so obviously don't have any experience with AS levels, and I don't do economics. I do combined science and I got a 9-9 in this in my last set of mocks. Obviously there will be more content in AS level science, however I feel like revision technique would be similar...

Please don't just read class notes - this is too passive and you won't absorb enough of the information. I like mindmapping each topic (if thaf works for you), and you could read through class notes in order to help with this. But do not just read your notes without a purpose because it isn't effective.

I think that past Paper questions are literally the most helpful revision resource! It tests you in the same way as you will be tested in the exam (unlike something like flashcards) and it also allows you to identify gaps which you can then go back to and revise in more detail. Pay close attention to the mark schemes too because sometimes they can be very specific, so it's good practice to get used to the mark schemes if you want top grades.

I recommend starting your revision as soon as possible and using spaced repetition because this is going to make things stick in your memory better. (There's been scientific research to back this up by the way!) You need to be covering everything multiple times because then you're going to retain much more of the information after each time you revisit it. If you like using flashcards, look into the Leitner system.

Yes, blurting is a good strategy! And, if you found it to be helpful in your last mocks, you should definitely try it again. Everyone has different revision strategies which work best for them!!

Good luck!! 💕

(edited 1 year ago)

Reply 2

geobotsar

Original post

by bernardlau

In order to perform good in my next AS level mocks, would reading class notes, reading flashcards consistently and spamming PPQs work in order to secure As for AS.
Last mocks was disappointing because I didn't study sooner and also copied notes instead of using active recall?
Also are there any other methods of studying for 3 sciences + econ? For chem I used blurting which was the exam I did better in.

Reading class notes, using flashcards, and practicing past papers (PPQs) are all excellent study techniques! However, to maximize their effectiveness, consider these tips:

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Active Recall is crucial - don't just read notes passively. Test yourself regularly and explain concepts in your own words.

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Spaced Repetition - Space out your studying rather than cramming. Review material at increasing intervals.

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For Sciences:

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Create concept maps to connect related topics

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Practice explaining processes step-by-step

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Focus on understanding mechanisms, not just memorizing

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Solve varied problem types, not just past papers

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For Economics:

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Link theories to real-world examples

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Practice essay structures

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Master diagram explanations

Pro tip: Consider using AI study guide generators (like GPTSidekick's free tool) to create customized study materials that match your learning style and subject needs. They can help generate practice questions, summaries, and flashcards to supplement your studying.
Remember: Quality of study > Quantity. Focus on understanding concepts deeply rather than just copying notes. Good luck with your AS levels! 📚✨