How can you achieve good exam results? Although it may sometimes seem impossible, getting good grades depends on you and the approach you choose when it comes to studying.

Here are some study techniques that can be very useful before any exam and will help you excel in IGCSE and AS/A Level exams. At British School of Valencia, students are guided with innovative methodologies that promote active learning, preparing them not only for exams but also for future academic and professional challenges.

 

1. Practice is key

Obtaining past papers (exams from previous years) and their answers can be extremely helpful. They allow you to make connections between different areas of the syllabus and serve as practice. Past papers give you the opportunity to understand the format of an official exam whilst reviewing and reinforcing the concepts you’ve studied. They also help you identify topics you still need to cover.

There’s no point in reviewing everything if you don’t apply the knowledge you’ve acquired, and past papers are your best ally. Start at least two weeks before the exams by doing past papers. Pay attention to the questions, think carefully about your answers, and, if possible, take each exam at least twice. Analyse your mistakes and how you corrected them.

Through practice, you can achieve perfection. Since questions are often similar to those from previous years, it’s better to prepare this way rather than trying to memorise everything without fully understanding the concepts.

 

2. Get the examiner’s report

A very useful tool that can truly shape your study pace is the examiner’s report. This is a document prepared by the examiners who grade the exams. Access to these reports can be crucial when preparing for an exam, as they reveal what examiners are looking for in your answers and what they prefer not to see.

Familiarising yourself with the grading system can make studying much easier. If you know what they want to see, you can focus on memorising key terms and applying that knowledge to similar questions.

 

3. Use mnemonic devices

Linking concepts is a practical strategy, and you can use techniques like the method of loci (memory palace). This mnemonic technique helps improve memorisation by creating an imaginary journey through familiar places and objects, associating each step with what you want to remember.

Mnemonic devices are also great for memorising quotes or specific concepts. For example, creating a song to remember quotes can make studying more fun and effective.

 

4. Start studying early

Starting early instead of leaving everything to the last minute will improve your study pace. There’s nothing worse than feeling panic and stress because you started too late.

If you study calmly and with time and have the support of teachers for topics you don’t fully understand, you’ll be in a much better position. This allows you to review gradually, understanding concepts rather than just memorising them.

 

5. Create your own study schedule

Take your time and avoid rushing. It’s important to plan how your study weeks will unfold based on your exam schedule.

If you like to stay organised, create a study timetable to avoid wasting time and know which topics to review each day. Some subjects will take more time than others, and a schedule will help you track your daily progress.

 

6. Sleep well

Getting enough rest is essential for exam preparation. A good night’s sleep helps you absorb information better. If you’re tired, you won’t have the energy to study effectively, and your attention span and mood will suffer.

 

7. Motivate yourself

If you believe you can do it, you will. This doesn’t mean you won’t have to work hard but avoid defeatist thoughts from the start. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and stay motivated every day.

 

8. Stay focused

If you’ve been studying a subject for hours and feel like you can’t continue, switch to another topic, and return to the first one later. This is better than stopping altogether.

 

9. Take breaks

Studying non-stop is counterproductive. Taking short breaks of 10-15 minutes helps maintain focus and improves performance. Use breaks to clear your mind and organise what you’ve studied.

 

10. Know the syllabus inside out

Having full control of the syllabus significantly increases your chances of getting a good grade. Obtain a copy of the syllabus, which you can find online or get from your teacher.

 

11. Use flashcards

Flashcards are a great way to test your knowledge of a topic you’ve already studied. They help you identify what you know well and what needs more review.

If you make a mistake, don’t worry—just revisit the flashcard to learn the correct answer. Use colours and make your flashcards visually appealing to make studying more enjoyable.

 

12. Study smart

There’s no point in reading and rereading a textbook if you don’t understand the content. Close the book and try to recall what you’ve read, take notes, and get a general overview of the material. Practice with past papers, as they are the closest thing to the actual exam.

 

13. Study at your best time

Some students prefer studying in the morning, whilst others are more productive at night. Both options are valid, but avoid studying all day, as your concentration and performance will decline.

 

14. Find a quiet study space

Having a comfortable, distraction-free space is essential. Whether it’s at home or in a library, a quiet environment helps you focus better.

 

15. Visualise your goal

Visualising your goal can be very motivating. Think positively and remind yourself that the exams will soon be over. Imagine the satisfaction of knowing you worked hard and that your efforts will be reflected in your results, helping you get into your chosen university.

 

16. Use your notes

Textbooks are important, but if you’ve taken your own notes in class, you’ll have a clearer and broader understanding of the material. Notes help you internalise key points and deepen your understanding.

 

17. Choose subjects wisely

If you choose subjects that genuinely interest you, studying won’t feel like a chore. Your interest will keep you motivated and may even shape your future academic and career path.

 

18. Find what works best for you

What works for others may not work for you. Maybe you prefer typing notes instead of writing them by hand, or you like studying out loud. Everything is valid—just find what suits you best, start early, and remember to stay calm. In the end, everything will work out.