You’ve been “revising” for hours, but nothing sticks. Sound familiar? Whether you’re preparing for GCSEs or pushing through A-Level revision, here’s why your revision might not be working — and how to fix it.
You’re Just Reading and Copying Notes
Re-reading the same textbook or copying paragraphs into a notebook feels like revision, but it’s not. For GCSE and A-Level exams, this passive approach won’t help you remember key facts, equations, or quotes.
Fix: Switch to active recall. Summarise topics in your own words, use flashcards, or explain concepts aloud. Before opening your notes, try answering a past paper question. This way, your brain is forced to retrieve information — the exact skill you’ll need in exams.
You’re Not Testing Yourself the Right Way
Highlighting or underlining might make your notes colourful, but it doesn’t prepare you for exam conditions. GCSEs and A-Levels are about applying knowledge, not just recognising it.
Fix: Test yourself with past papers, question banks, or timed practice. This shows you what you know and exposes gaps early.
You’re Not Concentrating Enough
Trying to revise with TikTok open or group chats buzzing = wasted hours. Poor focus is one of the biggest reasons students feel revision “isn’t working.”
Fix: Use the Pomodoro method: 25-minute sessions followed by 5-minute breaks. Step outside, grab a drink, or stretch — but avoid screens. Quality focus beats endless hours.
You’re Procrastinating
Rewriting notes in new colours, tidying your desk, or convincing yourself you’ll “start later” are all classic procrastination traps.
Fix: Start with one small win. Pick a GCSE or A-Level topic, set a 25-minute timer, and do one question. Taking action kills procrastination.
Quick Recap
❌ Copying and re-reading notes isn’t real revision
❌ Highlighting doesn’t equal learning
❌ Distractions and procrastination waste time
✔️ Use active recall and past papers
✔️ Test yourself the same way GCSE and A-Level exams will test you
✔️ Revise in short, focused bursts
Final Thought
If revision isn’t working, the problem isn’t you — it’s the method. Whether it’s for GCSEs or A-Levels, switch from passive to active revision and you’ll see results fast.
👉 Want exam-board specific past papers, active recall questions, and study tools? Revise Right helps you revise smarter for GCSEs and A-Levels.
