A well-structured revision timetable is one of the most powerful tools for A-Level success. It helps you cover all your material, reduces stress, and ensures you're making the most of your study time. Here's how to create a timetable that actually works.
Why You Need a Revision Timetable
Without a plan, it's easy to:
- Spend too much time on favourite subjects
- Neglect difficult topics until it's too late
- Feel overwhelmed by the amount to cover
- Lose track of what you've studied
A good timetable addresses all these issues and gives you a clear path to follow.
Step 1: Audit Your Time
Before creating your timetable, understand how much time you actually have.
Calculate Available Time
Work out how many weeks until your exams, then:
- Subtract time for school/college
- Account for other commitments
- Factor in realistic study capacity
Be Honest About Your Limits
Most people can only study effectively for 4-6 hours per day. Don't create a timetable that's impossible to stick to.
Step 2: List Everything You Need to Cover
For each subject, create a comprehensive list:
- All topics in the specification
- Key concepts and theories
- Required practicals or coursework
- Past paper practice needed
Prioritise Topics
Rank topics by:
- High priority: Weak areas, heavily weighted topics
- Medium priority: Average understanding, moderate weighting
- Lower priority: Strong areas, lower weighting
Step 3: Structure Your Timetable
Choose Your Format
Options include:
- Paper planners or wall charts
- Digital calendars (Google Calendar, Outlook)
- Apps like Notion, Trello, or dedicated study apps
- Simple spreadsheets
The best format is one you'll actually use.
Block Out Fixed Commitments
Start by adding:
- School or college hours
- Work commitments
- Regular activities you won't skip
- Meal times and sleep
Allocate Subject Blocks
Divide remaining time between subjects. Consider:
Subject weighting: Give more time to subjects with more content or where you're weaker.
Time of day: Schedule difficult subjects when you're most alert (usually mornings for most people).
Subject mixing: Don't study similar subjects back-to-back - your brain benefits from variety.
Step 4: Plan Each Study Block
A good study block includes:
Clear Objectives
Instead of "Study Chemistry", try "Complete ionic bonding topic and practice 3 past paper questions".
Active Learning
Include specific activities:
- Create flashcards for key terms
- Complete practice questions
- Summarise a chapter
- Teach a concept to someone
Timed Sessions
Use the Pomodoro Technique:
- 25 minutes focused study
- 5 minutes break
- Repeat 4 times
- Take a longer 15-30 minute break
Step 5: Schedule Breaks and Rest
Daily Breaks
Include:
- Short breaks between study sessions (5-10 minutes)
- Proper lunch break (at least 30 minutes)
- Evening free time for relaxation
Weekly Rest
Schedule at least one full day off per week. Your brain needs time to consolidate learning.
The Importance of Sleep
Never sacrifice sleep for revision. Aim for 8-9 hours per night - sleep is when your brain processes and stores what you've learned.
Sample Timetable Structure
Here's an example for a student with three A-Level subjects:
| Time | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9-10:30 | Biology | Chemistry | Physics | Biology | Chemistry | Physics | REST |
| 10:30-11 | Break | Break | Break | Break | Break | Break | DAY |
| 11-12:30 | Chemistry | Physics | Biology | Chemistry | Physics | Biology | |
| 12:30-1:30 | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | |
| 2-3:30 | Physics | Biology | Chemistry | Physics | Biology | Past Papers | |
| 3:30-4 | Break | Break | Break | Break | Break | Break | |
| 4-5 | Review/Catch-up | Review/Catch-up | Review/Catch-up | Review/Catch-up | Review/Catch-up | Free | |
| Evening | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free | Free |
Tips for Sticking to Your Timetable
Be Flexible
Life happens. If you miss a session, don't stress - just adjust and continue.
Review Weekly
At the end of each week:
- What worked well?
- What didn't get done?
- What needs more time next week?
Reward Progress
Build in small rewards for hitting milestones:
- Completed a topic? Watch an episode of your favourite show
- Finished a past paper? Have a treat
- Stuck to your timetable all week? Do something fun at the weekend
Find an Accountability Partner
Study with a friend or family member who can help keep you on track.
Track Your Progress
Use a visual tracker to see how much you've covered. Crossing off completed topics feels satisfying and motivating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Being Too Ambitious
A timetable that's too demanding will lead to burnout and frustration. Start conservative and add more if needed.
Ignoring Weak Areas
It's tempting to spend time on subjects you enjoy. Make sure weak areas get attention.
No Flexibility
Leave buffer time for catching up or deeper dives into tricky topics.
Forgetting Practice Questions
Active practice is essential. Schedule regular past paper time, not just reading.
Starting Too Late
Begin your timetable early. Last-minute cramming is stressful and less effective than spaced repetition.
Adjusting Your Timetable
Your timetable should evolve as exams approach:
8+ weeks before: Focus on understanding and notes 4-8 weeks before: Mix understanding with practice questions 2-4 weeks before: Heavy focus on past papers Final 2 weeks: Past papers, review, and consolidation
Need More Support?
If you're struggling to create or stick to a revision plan, or if you're retaking your A-Levels, personalised support can make a huge difference. Private tuition provides structured guidance tailored to your specific needs.
Make an enquiry to discuss how we can help you prepare effectively.