Why Most Revision Timetables Fail
Many students create beautiful colour-coded timetables, follow them for two days, then abandon them. The problem isn't discipline — it's the timetable itself. Most revision timetables are too rigid, too ambitious, or don't account for how learning actually works.
Principles of an Effective Timetable
A good revision timetable should: 1) Prioritise weak topics over strong ones. 2) Include active revision, not just 'reading' sessions. 3) Space out topics using spaced repetition. 4) Build in genuine breaks. 5) Be flexible enough to adapt when things don't go to plan.
How to Allocate Time Across Subjects
Divide your time based on exam weighting and current confidence. If Maths carries the same weight as Chemistry but you're much weaker in Chemistry, allocate more time to Chemistry. A rough starting point: divide time equally, then shift 20-30% more time towards your weakest subjects.
Daily Structure That Works
Morning (best focus): Tackle your hardest subject or weakest topics. Afternoon: Switch to a different subject. Do practice questions and past papers. Evening: Light review — flashcards, formula review, or watch educational content. Total: 4-6 hours of focused revision per day during intensive revision periods.
Weekly Structure
Monday-Friday: Follow your daily structure across different subjects. Saturday: Practice paper day — complete a full past paper under timed conditions for your weakest subject. Sunday: Take a genuine rest day OR do light review only. One full rest day per week prevents burnout.
Build in Spaced Repetition
When you schedule a topic, also schedule a review session 3-5 days later. This prevents the 'revise it once and forget it' problem. StudyVector's revision planner automates this process.
Be Flexible
Your timetable should be a guide, not a prison. If you finish a topic faster than expected, move on. If something takes longer, adjust. The goal is consistent progress, not rigid adherence to a schedule.
Get a Personalised Timetable
StudyVector's AI revision planner generates a personalised timetable based on your subjects, exam dates, and confidence levels. It automatically includes spaced repetition and adjusts as you progress. Create your timetable now.