As your academic career progresses, the art of effective revision is a crucial skill.

But to craft a well-structured and realistic revision timetable you’ve got to find your way through a maze of study advice and options. 

For instance, how much revision is too much? How far should you break-down each subject? Are you planning ahead enough or setting unachievable goals? And do revision timetables really make a difference anyway?

In this guide, we’ll explore how to make a revision timetable that not only keeps you on track but enhances your study experience and your grades.

Ready? Let’s get scheduling.

How to make a revision timetable

There are two main aspects to making a successful revision timetable. Firstly, craft your study roadmap by compiling a detailed list of everything (yes, absolutely everything!) you need to revise. Secondly, put time management techniques to work with time-blocking, realistic expectations and prioritising “active rest”.

Up for the challenge? Here’s how to create a revision timetable that really works.

How do I make my own study timetable?

1. Start with a detailed revision list

When figuring out what to include in your revision timetable, go beyond broad subjects. Break-down topics into granular details. The more in-depth, the better. 

Double-check everything against your subject specifications and make sure to tick everything off as you go along. Trust us, it’s very satisfying.

2. Prioritise topics strategically

Start with the trickiest subjects first to avoid any last-minute panic. Identify any areas of weakness and prioritise them in your schedule.

Having said this, it’s also important to ensure everything is covered eventually. So don’t leave any topics out or content crammed into the last minute either!

3. Create small, manageable chunks

Use time-blocking techniques for focused and efficient study sessions. This involves dividing your study sessions into specific tasks, making revision more manageable.

Set realistic goals and track your progress effectively. This should all be clearly listed (and easily checked off) in your revision timeline.

4. Include the How, not just the What

Think beyond the subject content and plan how you’ll tackle each topic. For instance, will one revision session focus on organising notes while you work on memorisation, past papers or timed essay writing in another?

Experiment with different approaches to find what works best for each subject – keeping your schedule flexible and adaptable.

5. Understand your own attention span

Attention span is different for everyone, but be realistic about the amount of time you can study at once. Many students find shorter, focused sessions helpful.

When planning your time, also account for personal commitments, family obligations and any clubs you don’t want to miss. It’s your revision timetable after all, so it needs to suit your circumstances!

6. Block out your diary effectively

Yes, your revision timetable needs to suit your circumstances. But as you get closer to exams, have another look at your diary. Is there any way to prioritise revision by blocking out dedicated time?

Whatever schedule you decide, communicate this with family and friends to minimise interruptions.

7. Schedule well-deserved breaks

A good revision timetable recognises the importance of self-care in maintaining focus and well-being.

So include breaks for relaxation, physical activity or socialising. These enjoyable activities will rejuvenate your mind and avoid burnout, so you can focus on consistent, effective exam preparation.

8. Regularly review and adjust

A revision timetable isn’t a static thing that you create one day, and then it’s done. Periodically assess your progress and adjust your timetable accordingly.

As you get started with revision, identify any areas you need to focus on and redistribute study time. Stay flexible and adapt your schedule to meet evolving needs – and you’ll ensure success for the long-run.

Ultimately, your revision timetable should be more than a mere schedule. It’s a tailored roadmap designed to navigate the complexities of exam preparation, your personal circumstances and learning style. 

If you’re getting started with revision, don’t miss our subject-specific guides for GCSE Maths, English Literature and Language as well as 10 tips for getting an A at A Level.

Revision Rules: How to find a strategy that works for you

Before you finalise your revision timetable, there are a few different approaches to scheduling study time and breaks. 

There’s the 20/20/20 rule, the 80/20 rule and the 2/3/5/7 rule… and yes, it can all feel a bit confusing at first. 

So here’s a quick guide to each of the main approaches, so you can find out what works best for you. 

What is the 2 3 5 7 study rule?

The 2 3 5 7 revision rule is a holistic approach prioritising a well-rounded study strategy. 

It suggests dedicating two hours to understanding the material, then three hours actively practicing what you’ve learned. 

To embed learning, spend five hours teaching (or just explaining) the content to someone else. Breaking this time into chunks with a study group will make this feel more manageable. 

Finally, take seven hours to review and reinforce the material yourself.

This rule capitalises on different ways of learning (reading, writing and active discussion) to deepen understanding, engagement and retention.

Don’t have time to commit to the full 2,3,5,7 hours? Just think in terms of percentages and break-down whatever time you have available.

What is the 80 20 rule in revision?

Also known as the “Pareto Principle”, the 80-20 rule asserts that 80% of your results come from 20% of your efforts. 

So what exactly does this mean?

Well, in the context of revision, you should identify and prioritise the most critical 20% of your study material. 

By focusing on the most impactful topics (perhaps any “core” content) or personal areas of weakness, you’ll optimise your study time for maximum effectiveness. This makes revision sessions more targeted and results-oriented.

What is the 20 20 20 rule in revision?

The 20-20-20 rule in revision is a guideline to prevent eye strain and maintain focus during study sessions. 

It recommends taking a break every 20 minutes by diverting your gaze to something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This break helps alleviate eye fatigue caused by prolonged screen or book exposure. 

Implementing the 20-20-20 rule fosters a healthier study environment, reducing eye strain and promoting sustained concentration during extended study sessions.

Planning your time: How long to spend revising

So, you know what you have to study. You’ve also got an idea about study rules and strategies.

Now, how much time should you allocate on your revision timetable?

How many hours a day should I revise for GCSEs?

The ideal duration for GCSE revision varies from person to person, based on individual preferences, available time and study habits.

On average though, students often find success with 2 to 3 hours of focused revision per day. This might even out with less on a school day and more at the weekend, but you’ll quickly find your own rhythm and know what’s achievable for you.

Having said this, it’s crucial to prioritise quality over quantity, ensuring revision is concentrated and tailored to your specific needs. 

As we’ve discussed above, consistency is key. Breaking down revision into manageable chunks spread across various subjects (as well as some much-needed time to yourself) will help keep things on track.

How many hours a day should I revise for A Levels?

A Levels demand a more in-depth understanding of subjects, requiring an increased commitment to revision. 

On average, aiming for 3 to 5 hours of revision per day is a reasonable target. However, the optimal duration varies based on the complexity of your subjects, individual learning styles and personal circumstances.

Again, it’s essential to strike a balance, ensuring time spent revising is both productive and sustainable over an extended period.

Is three hours of revision a day enough?

In short, yes! It certainly can be. 

But ask yourself, is it enough for you? Will you cover all the content you need, leaving plenty of time for memorisation and review?

Three hours of revision per day can be sufficient if those hours are highly focused and efficient. The quality of your study sessions matters more than the quantity of time spent. 

Even if you’ve just got a couple of hours each day, you should still plan specific revision tasks, prioritise areas of weakness and incorporate active learning techniques. 

Is seven hours of revision too much?

While commitment to studies is commendable, seven hours of revision per day may risk burnout and reduced effectiveness. 

The key is finding a balance that allows for sustained focus without compromising well-being. Incorporating breaks, diverse activities (whatever it is you enjoy!) and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are essential components of a successful revision strategy.

It’s crucial to listen to your body and mind, adapting study routines to ensure productivity without too much stress.

Final touches: How to craft an effective revision timetable

You’ve made it! With a firm idea of how to make a timetable and strategies for making your revision the most effective it can be – it’s time to start writing your plan.

What does a good revision table look like?

A well-crafted revision timetable is a visual roadmap that enhances organisation and productivity. 

It should be as clear as possible, allowing for easy readability and quick reference. A simple table layout is often best. Many students also find color-coding beneficial, assigning different colors to various subjects or tasks to create a visual hierarchy. 

Whether handwritten or created using online tools, the timetable should resonate with your personal preferences. You’ll have to look at it everyday for sometime to come after all!

While handwritten timetables provide a tangible connection, online tools offer flexibility and easy adjustments.

Whatever look you go for, place your timetable in a prominent location, such as on your desk or pinned to a wall, ensuring it remains a constant visual reminder of your study goals.

Do revision timetables work?

Yes. Absolutely.

When approached thoughtfully, revision timetables can be highly effective tools for successful exam preparation. They provide structure, promote consistency and manage your time efficiently. A good revision timetable will  help you not only understand what you need to know, but how you’ll get there.

However a word of caution, a revision timetable’s effectiveness solely depends on your commitment to following the schedule and making any necessary adjustments. 

Ultimately, a revision timetable is a dynamic tool that, when used strategically, can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of your study routine.

Want to create a study plan that really works?

Start your revision journey with confidence with academic coaching. Tailored for GCSE and A Level success, our coaching goes beyond conventional approaches. We provide personalised guidance and strategies to elevate your study experience and ensure long-term success. Get in touch today to discover how we can help.