GCSE Maths is a challenge, which means it is really important to develop some smart studying techniques. Sticking to the right routines before you approach the exams could make all the difference.
Here are a few easy tips on how you can make the most of your study sessions and get yourself ready to conquer GCSE Maths.
Taking Notes in Class
Listen Carefully.
Listen, and write down the most important things your teacher says or writes on the board. You don’t have to write down everything, just the important bits. Take note, and take notes.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask or Find Out.
If you are unclear on something, then ask your teacher. If that’s not an option, look it up in a book or via Google. There’s never any shame in not knowing something!
Review and Edit Your Notes.
Go back over your notes as soon as you can after class. Look for any errors and/or omissions, correct them and write them out again, neatly. Review those notes regularly to keep the information fresh in your mind.
Homework
Understand the Purpose of Homework.
Most people need to test out their knowledge to really understand a topic. That is the point of the homework. You won’t know if you truly understand the material and can solve the problem if you don’t attempt the homework.
Do the Homework Promptly.
You should always do the homework as soon after class as possible while what you have learned is still fresh in your mind. Waiting until the last minute will only mean you find it harder.
Be Neat.
Make sure that you write neatly. Good presentation makes it easier for your teacher to mark your work, and makes it much more efficient for you to review your own work in preparation for the exam.
Show All Working.
Make sure that you show all of your working as you go along. Don’t go from Step 1 to Step 3 without clearly showing Step 2 and how you reached it. Seeing your processes will make difficult concepts much easier to grasp when revising.
Check Your Work.
Always go back over your work and make sure that you’ve not made any little careless errors.
Problem Solving
Read the Question.
Read the question very carefully to ensure you know exactly what you’re being asked to do. Then read it again. The second time, take note of all the little details. A bit of close attention might make all the difference.
Draw a Diagram.
Sometimes it can be helpful to draw a diagram and label what you know and what you need to find. A well-drawn diagram can sometimes lead you to that eureka moment, so it’s a good idea to get into the habit of drawing them.
Try a Similar Problem.
If you can’t figure out how to do the question, find a similar one that you know is simpler. Work this out and then go back and compare your method to the one you’re finding harder.
Check Your Answer.
Go through the question again. Go through each line again. Does it all make sense? Does the answer look reasonable? For example, in a question where you are required to work out an average velocity, will the speed of a car really be 600 mph?
Being more methodical about how you study can make a big difference to your success in GCSE Maths. If you equip yourself with good habits and routines, you’re already halfway there.
You can set yourself up for success in your exams by working with one of TuitionWorks’ dedicated GCSE Maths tutors. Click below to book a free maths assessment and we will be in touch to arrange a chat with a tutor to talk over your results and areas for improvement.
Rajiv B
Maths tutor at TuitionWorks
I have been teaching and tutoring for over 35 years now, with an excellent rate of success and glowing references from literally scores of past pupils.
About me: At the age of 10, I was awarded a 7-year scholarship to Loughborough Grammar School and went on to study Mathematics at Keele University and then at Oxford University.
