Hi Everyone!

I was sent this Article by Kip McGrath Basildon and thought it was extremely interesting. It's definitley worth a read!......

5 Tips for GCSE Preparation to Guarantee Yourself An A

Before we start it is important to know that when it comes to tests and coursework, you are rewarded in the same measure you put into it in the first place. If you input zero effort into your preparations for tests, you will get zero back! My advice however, is not working harder, just working smarter!  This is what these 5 tips are about. Read each tip carefully and start applying them today.

1. Know your target. 

Once you determine the deadline for the test,course work or exam, work backwards. Budget a specific amount of time every day to work on it or prepare. Consider other homework, projects and time needed to study for other classes as you create your schedule.

Application: The shortest distance between point A and point B is a straight line. Once you have set your target or goal, go in a straight line towards it.  If you want to do something, ask yourself; "Is this taking me closer of futher away from my goal?"  If it is taking you closer, do it, if not it will only distract you and keep you from reaching your goals in the shortest time possible.

2. Get to work.  (Review)

Do not wait until a test is announced to begin preparing for your test. Review a little every school night. Consider what would be easier; reviewing for 5-10 minutes a night or cramming for three hours the night before a test and only remembering a fraction of what you studied?

Application: Apply "The principle of the slight edge".  All you ave to do to be better than anybody else is to do just slightly more in everything you do.  If you spend 30 minutes per day on homework, increase it slightly by 5 minutes.  By the end of the week you would have gained an extra 30 minutes.  If your home work is to find 5 examples of child heroes, find 6. 

3. Prepare.

Don't just re-read notes or the text. You learn much more when you engage with the material.  How? Well, you can ask questions. Create flash-cards. Re-write your notes. Get someone to quiz you. Find websites online that review the same material. Make up questions that you think will be on the test. Create new outlines of the material by writing some specific topics and filling in the details from memory. Studying should be an active process, not just time spent re-reading something.

Application: "I hear, I forget.  I see I remember.  I do I understand" - Chinese proverb

4. Engage.

Ask the teacher what the format for the test will be. Will it contain multiple choice, true-false, short answer, essay, diagrams, graphs, equations, etc.? Will any information such as a periodic table or equations be provided for you on the day of the test? Do you need to bring a calculator?

Application: Being prepared lowers you stress level which in turns aids your ability to recall the information you need for the test.

5. Back-up plan.

Consider visiting your local Kip McGrath Tuition Centre in Basildon and Wickford for extra help. This can be invaluable to ensure you master all areas of your curriculum and have a structures revision system in place to ensure you reach your grades.

Application: Go to www.kipmcgratheducation.co.uk to learn more about our tutoring or call today to book a free no-obligation assessment on 01268 556700.  We specialise in helping students succeed in Maths and English.

If you make these 5 steps part of your everyday work plan, you will succeed.