Getting a Grade 9 in your GCSEs might feel like a dream, but it’s absolutely possible with the right habits. You don’t need to be the smartest person in the room; you just need to work smart, stay focused, and keep a positive mindset.
Let’s take a look at seven habits that can help you get top marks, and what to avoid along the way.
1. Plan Your Time Like a Pro
Creating a study schedule is much easier when you use the right tools. Google Calendar is a brilliant option for keeping track of your study sessions. You can set reminders, block out specific times for each subject, and adjust your schedule when plans change.
If you prefer something more detailed, try Notion, where you can organise tasks, deadlines, and notes in one place.
How to start:
- Write down all your subjects and topics.
- Break them into smaller sections and assign each section to a specific day.
- Use colour coding in your calendar to easily see what you’re studying each day.
2. Set Clear Goals
Setting clear goals keeps you focused, but tracking them is just as important. Apps like Todoist can help you create a visual checklist of your goals. For example, create a board with columns like “To Do,” “In Progress,” and “Done” to track your progress. This method makes it satisfying to move tasks to the “Done” column.
How to start:
- Write SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
- Example: “Complete one past paper in maths by Sunday evening.”
- Break big goals into smaller steps so they don’t feel overwhelming.
3. Use Active Revision Methods
Reading your notes over and over is not that helpful.. Apps like Quizlet let you create flashcards for key facts and definitions. If you’re a visual learner, try MindMeister for creating mind maps.
Teaching what you’ve learned to a friend or even explaining it out loud can also boost your understanding.
How to start:
- Write down key points from your revision topic.
- Create flashcards on Quizlet or a physical deck.
- Test yourself regularly and shuffle the cards to keep it challenging.
4. Get Help When You Need It
Plenty of online resources are available for GCSE students. And many of them are free. BBC Bitesize, for example, has concise, subject-specific guides for every GCSE topic. The GCSE Revision Podcast is another valuable online resource.
You will also find YouTube very helpful for GCSE revision. Channels like Primrose Kitten provide revision tips and exam strategies.
5. Practise Past Papers
Past papers are your secret weapon. Websites like AQA, Edexcel, and OCR (depending on your exam board) have official past papers and mark schemes available for free.
How to start:
- Print or download past papers for your subjects.
- Set a timer and complete them under exam conditions.
- Use the mark scheme to see where you lost marks and revise those areas.
6. Make Tutoring a Part of Your Strategy
Even the best students encounter challenges with certain topics, and that’s where tutoring can make a big difference. At Ostado, we specialise in helping students achieve outstanding exam results.
With a GCSE tutor, you’ll gain the skills and confidence you need for exam success. Our lessons are tailored to your learning style and aligned with your specific exam board. Plus, we offer free trials, and our dedicated education support team is here to help you find the perfect tutor.
7. Look After Yourself
Your body and mind need regular care to perform their best. Use apps like Headspace for guided meditation to reduce stress. A simple walk or some yoga can make a big difference in how you feel and think.
How to start:
- Schedule time for exercise, even if it’s just a 15-minute walk.
- Create a bedtime routine to get at least 7–8 hours of sleep.
- Use meditation apps to help you wind down after a long study session.
Ditch These Habits to Ace Your GCSEs
One thing to avoid is multitasking. As tempting as it sounds, multitasking doesn’t really work in the long run. Staying focused is easier when you block distractions. Apps like Forest can help by using timers to keep you on task. Here’s a brief list of things to avoid:
- Over-worrying.
- Comparing yourself to others.
- Overloading your schedule.
- Ignoring sleep and nutrition.
Bonus Tip: Reflect and Improve
Track your progress and learn from your mistakes. After every test or piece of homework, write down what went well and what didn’t. Apps like OneNote or a simple revision journal can help you document your reflections. Over time, you’ll notice patterns and find ways to improve.
How to start:
- After each test, list your strengths and weaknesses.
- Plan how to strengthen the weaker areas in your next study session.
- Celebrate your improvements, no matter how small.