Practical Study Tips for A-Level Students
A-levels are challenging; aside from the course material, there's pressure for grades for predictions and a university place. This is where effective study strategies can help. You can enhance your learning and perform better in exams with the following study tips tailored for A-level study.
Organise your study materials
Create a study schedule: Plan all your study sessions for the week. Allocate specific time slots for each subject, focusing on topics that need more attention and knowledge gaps.
Use folders on and offline: Keep your notes, handouts, and revision materials organised by subject. Consider using digital tools like OneNote or Evernote for easy access and quick searches, or use good old-fashioned folders.
Use active learning techniques
Summarise and work with peers: After studying a topic or concept, explain it aloud or write a summary without looking at your notes. Work with peers and do this with each other to reinforce your understanding.
Use past papers: Always work through past exam papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format, exam questions and the marking scheme. Doing this helps you identify areas where you are losing marks and need improvement.
Take effective notes
Use the Cornell Method: The Cornell method is a system for organising and summarising notes. Draw a line down the middle of a sheet of paper, creating a right-hand column and a larger left-hand column. In the left-hand column, take notes on the main points and supporting details of the lecture or reading.
After the lecture/lesson, use the right-hand column to write questions, keywords, or summaries of the notes on the left-hand column. At the bottom of the page, create a summary of the notes. This can be a brief paragraph summarising the main points or a list of key takeaways. When reviewing your notes, focus on the right-hand column to quiz yourself on the material and check your understanding.
Make use of online resources
Use Flashcard Apps: Anki or Quizlet will help you create digital flashcards for a quick review of key concepts, definitions, and formulas.
Work beyond your textbooks: Explore online platforms like Khan Academy, YouTube educational channels, and MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) for additional explanations and tutorials.
Use effective revision strategies
Active recall: Test yourself on the material you've learned without looking at your notes. This can be done through flashcards, quizzes, or explaining concepts out loud.
Review and reflect: Regularly review your notes and revise previous topics. Reflect on your progress, strengths, and areas needing improvement.
Utilise your free time
Increase your independent study: With the transition to A-level comes more free time in your timetable. Use it well, as it should be earmarked for independent study time. This means managing your learning, including tracking your progress and finding your own study materials.
Take the initiative: Explore topics beyond your textbooks, classes and exam specifications. Delve into areas you are interested in within subjects and seek out additional viewpoints via podcasts, talks, online resources, and studies.
Work on self-assessment and feedback
Practice mock exams: Take mock exams or practice tests to assess your knowledge and identify areas for improvement on a regular basis.
Evaluate how you are doing: Reflect on your learning, identify strengths and weaknesses with past papers and by looking at teacher feedback. Adjust your study strategies accordingly.
Seek extra help
Tutor support: An A-level tutor can support you in a range of ways, from subject help to exam support. Tutors also have a deep understanding of complex topics and can help you to grasp fundamental concepts.
Experienced A-level tutors are also familiar with the latest syllabus and exam requirements and can tailor their teaching to help you meet the specific objectives of your course.
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