The Student Room Group

Best way to revise computer science?

What is Best way to revise computer science?

Reply 1

Learning the definitions is key for component 1, lots of flashcards and practice papers helps!

https://compsciwizard.com

Reply 2

Original post
by rubenalcazar
What is Best way to revise computer science?

Hey there,
Revising computer science is not easy at University level, particularly considering that every University teaches different modules, content and has different expectations. Here's some tips that I have learn throughout my time at University split into three different types

For assignments
Module content can often become overwhelming so what's important is to know what is an isn't relevant. Keep up with weekly lectures and annotate what's relevant to the actual assignments. Not everything will be due to the fact that most Universities must follow a plan set out by accreditors, where certain content must be taught, regardless of whether it comes up in an assignment. Take note of what's important and learn it, annotate it. Use it for your written assignments and dig further into research. If you have practical based classes, these are usually useful. You can upskill further by reading up on similar topics, watching YT videos or completing certs.

For exams
Learn what has been given. Ask for exam guidance materials e.g. what topics will come up and revise the slides like crazy! Where possible go above and beyond, learning additional stuff through google searches. Most of my exams have been based on my practical work so all I had to do was revise it and memorise. POMODORO works wonders. Use flashcards, use Anki and create practice questions to work off. Ask your teachers for guidance where possible.

For job applications
Unfortunately you will need to learn most of this outside of class. Do leetcode questions, CTFs, practice wesbite such as Codecademy, HackTheBox, TryHackMe, do certifications like AWS Cloud practioner, CCNA, read up on job descriptors and practice interview style questions for each one. This is very dependent on the type of role. Your portfolio will mean a lot here!

University is quite different from a-levels so there is no singular way that beats all! Study with friends, have group sessions, stay late in Uni if you have to but please keep time and prioritise.

Wishing you all the best
(Aura, Uni of Staffs, Comp Sci Rep)

Reply 3

Original post
by rubenalcazar
What is Best way to revise computer science?

Hi, I'm studying computer science at Swansea University. I don't think there is one 'best way' to revise so you have to find what works for you, but I find the best thing to do is to practise. Computer science is unique as we have both theory and programming tests.
For theory, practise papers will give you an idea of the style of questions and identify any gaps in your knowledge. I also like to do a short 5 minute session of flashcards as this repetition is great for memorisation. I also enjoy making mnemonics for things that are trickier to remember.
For programming, try coding something you enjoy in your spare time. This will help you learn the language and make the practise questions (and the exam) feel easier and hopefully more enjoyable.
Finally, don't be afraid to reach out to your lecturers or academic support if you need something explained again or to go through a practice question you don't understand.
Let me know if you have any questions and good luck with your revision!

Reply 4

Original post
by MacTr11
Learning the definitions is key for component 1, lots of flashcards and practice papers helps!
https://compsciwizard.com
That website is only good for its flashcards, the rest is AI slop missing content
Original post
by rubenalcazar
What is Best way to revise computer science?

I recently graduated from Computer Science, and honestly I don't think there's one single 'best' way to revise - it really depends on how you learn and what area of CS you're focusing on.

For me, I realised pretty quickly that passive revision (rereading notes/watching videos) didn't work. CS is one of those subjects that you actually have to apply things ✨ For theory, past papers were a lifesaver! I could see how mark schemes wanted answers structured. When it came to programming, regular practice made the biggest difference, working backwards and buildings you enjoy ultimately makes learning fun πŸ˜† Build things that you enjoy or are curious about, and in turn that'll help you to also build on expanding your knowledge.

I hope that helps - remember consistency is key and It'll take time to find what works best for you but remember that's all part of learning ☺️

Good luck!
Du'a - University of Salford Graduate Rep

Quick Reply

How The Student Room is moderated

To keep The Student Room safe for everyone, we moderate posts that are added to the site.