how to get ALL 9s at GCSE (complete no bs guide)

Summary

In this informative video, a successful student shares effective strategies for achieving top grades (nines) in GCSEs. Emphasizing the importance of understanding the syllabus and prioritizing past papers, the speaker offers subject-specific tips for history, maths, languages, and sciences. They advocate for studying in focused environments, employing cold testing, and planning answers during exams. By utilizing these techniques and maintaining a balanced approach to revision, students can build confidence and set themselves up for success in public examinations and future academic endeavors.

Takeaways

• 😀 Understand the syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the syllabus to know exactly what to study and avoid unnecessary material.
• 😀 Use past papers: Focus on practicing with past exam papers as they are the most effective way to prepare.
• 😀 Plan your revision: Prioritize subjects you enjoy and create a realistic study schedule to avoid burnout.
• 😀 Study in a distraction-free environment: Utilize libraries or quiet spaces to enhance your focus while studying.
• 😀 Cold testing: Test yourself with past papers to identify your strengths and weaknesses in various subjects.
• 😀 Tailor your approach for each subject: Different subjects require different revision strategies; adapt accordingly.
• 😀 Annotate in exams: Take time at the beginning of the exam to plan your answers and jot down important points.
• 😀 Focus on exam technique: Learn the specific techniques required for each subject to maximize your marks.
• 😀 Use flashcards wisely: For science subjects, utilize targeted flashcards for key concepts and formulas.
• 😀 Create a secret sheet: Before exams, consolidate your notes to only the most crucial information for a quick review.

Q & A

Why is achieving top grades in GCSEs important?

Top grades, like nines, are crucial for university admission to prestigious institutions and can lead to better job opportunities and higher earnings as a tutor.

What is the most overlooked aspect of exam preparation mentioned in the transcript?

Many students fail to consult the syllabus, which outlines the essential topics they need to focus on for their exams.

What is the recommended approach to using past papers for revision?

Students should practice past papers in a structured way, using their notes to answer questions initially, and gradually working towards answering without any aids.

How can students create an effective study environment?

Studying in a library or a dedicated quiet space can help students focus better, as they are surrounded by others who are also studying.

What strategy is suggested for managing weaker subjects?

Students are encouraged to use 'cold testing' by attempting past papers to identify topics they struggle with and need to revise further.

What specific technique should be applied when studying history for exams?

Students should focus on a few key topics, understand exam techniques, and learn to analyze sources by considering context and bias.

What is the importance of planning before starting to write in an exam?

Spending the first 15 minutes planning helps students organize their thoughts, reduces anxiety, and ensures they can recall and articulate their answers effectively.

How should students prepare for their maths exams?

Students should practice extensively with past papers, particularly focusing on the more challenging questions that often appear at the end of the exam.

What is the recommended approach to studying sciences?

It's essential to focus on the syllabus, practice past questions, and pay special attention to understanding and manipulating key equations.

What final tips are provided for the day of the exam?

Students should have a brief recap sheet for last-minute review and prioritize planning their answers before starting to write.