In uncertain times such as these, you may be wondering how the recent outbreak of COVID-19 (AKA Coronavirus) might affect you.
One possible disruption could be exams. We don’t currently know whether exams will be going ahead as planned in May, however it’s better to be safe than sorry, and carry on revising as if they’re definitely going on.
Statement from SQA on #Coronavirus, and impact on the National Qualifications 2020 Examinations Timetable – Thursday 12 March 2020 – https://t.co/2JefU2NW0i pic.twitter.com/4QvoyGXYz4
— SQA (@sqanews) March 12, 2020
Granted, it’s not what most folks would be wanting to do in their free time, but, we’re afraid it’s well and truly time to study (yawn). Don’t fear, it doesn’t have to be as boring – or hard – as you first think.
WHAT IS STUDYING?
Silly question, right? Well, studying can be difficult and it’s important to know exactly what studying is and how to do it properly. Everything you learn in class and from homework is, technically, a form of revision and building on your revision tools.
When it comes to exam season you need to remember everything you’ve learned over the last year and let your knowledge shine in the exam room. How? Studying can help this process.
GET LEARNING
We’re all different, and so is our method of studying. The best way to ensure your learning is effective it’s important to work out what type of learner you are. From colour-coded notes, spider diagrams, to reading text and copying it out, or listening to others speak and acting out your own ‘lesson’: pinpointing which method works for you will see your studying go to new heights (and grades).
Make sure you know what type of learner you are, visit How to Study.
GET ORGANISED
Have all the tools you need to revise handy – cue highlighters, calculator, past papers, and notes or homework from each lesson – so you won’t waste time (aka procrastinate) looking for a study aide. Alongside finding out what type of learner you are, it’s key to know what distracts you.
Some people thrive with music playing in the background, whereas others may find it off putting. You might work best at home or in the library, in the kitchen or simply with friends all discussing specific revision topics: these are all correct options, just be organised.
Try out the myHomework App, to effectively organise your time and what you need to study and when. It’s easy to revise subjects you enjoy and ignore the subjects you don’t or are not confident in, so a planner will keep you right.
GET STRICT
We’re not saying to beat yourself up about getting a past paper question wrong, we mean be strict on yourself and the amount of work you’re doing. As much as everyone can faff, you’ll know if you’re cheating yourself out of revision and only you will suffer the consequences.
1⃣ Breathe
2⃣ Hum
3⃣ FocusThree quick tips for staying calm under pressure… pic.twitter.com/Kv6N202Aym
— BBC Ideas💡 (@bbcideas) March 16, 2020
GET APPY
Tried and tested: Bitesize. The BBC Bitesize website has all your learning needs for National 4, National 5 and Higher subjects including English and biology. You can also get career advice, support when taking exams and deciding what to study.
There’s many more free Apps available. If you love nothing more than drawing mind maps SimpleMind is an interactive mind mapping service, where you can also include images, videos, recordings and voice memos – there are free options and in-app purchases available.
What are your top study tips? Let us know on Twitter and Instagram.
