Geography Revision Tips to Ace Your GCSE and A-Level Exams This Summer

As the days get longer, it’s time to start gearing up for the summer exams. Whether you’re tackling GCSE or A-Level Geography, a clear and effective revision strategy will help you feel confident and prepared when the big day arrives. Here are some top tips to help you stay on track and make your revision sessions count!

1. Start with a Plan

The key to effective revision is organisation. Begin by creating a revision timetable that breaks down your syllabus into manageable chunks. Prioritise the topics you’re less confident about but leave time to revisit your stronger areas as well. There are lots of online revision planners you can use to get you started – have a look at the following website which have free versions available;

https://getrevising.co.uk/planner

https://myrevisionplanner.com/home

https://www.canva.com/create/timetables/

Remember to include plenty of time for practice questions and reviewing past papers!

2. Master Your Case Studies

Case studies are vital for demonstrating your understanding of real-world applications of geographical theories. For GCSE and A-Level, make a list of all the required case studies (your classroom teachers should be able to help you with this) and create concise summary sheets for each, including:

• The location and background of the case study.
• Key facts, figures, and examples.
• Links to the processes or concepts you’re studying (e.g., coastal erosion processes or the impacts of urbanisation).

For example, when studying coastal erosion, lots of students use the Holderness Coast in the UK, or for urban sustainability, explore Curitiba in Brazil.

3. Use Active Revision Techniques

Passive reading isn’t enough—get involved in your revision! Here are some active methods that work particularly well for Geography:

• Mind Maps: Organise key topics visually, making connections between processes and case studies.
• Flashcards: Use these for key terms, definitions, and case study statistics. Quiz yourself regularly!
• Quizzes: Create your own or use online platforms to test your knowledge of topics like climate change or resource management.
• Teach Someone Else: Explaining concepts, like longshore drift or global trade, to someone else helps reinforce your understanding.
• Work with a tutor: In one-to-one sessions you get dedicated support and a focused hour of intense revision

4. Practice Exam Questions

Answering past paper questions is one of the best ways to prepare for your exams. Pay attention to:

• The command words (e.g., “describe,” “explain,” “evaluate”)—understand what they’re asking you to do.
• Structuring your answers clearly, using ‘PEEL’ paragraphs and including examples to back up your points.
• Timed practice: Simulate exam conditions to get used to working within the time limit.

After attempting questions, use the mark schemes to identify areas for improvement.

5. Don’t Forget Geographical Skills

Both GCSE and A-Level exams include sections on geographical skills, like interpreting graphs, maps, and data. Ensure you’re confident in:

• Reading and interpreting OS maps (grid references, contour lines, symbols).
• Analysing graphs, charts, and climate data.
• Drawing and labeling diagrams (e.g., wave-cut platforms or population pyramids).

Practice these skills regularly using past paper questions to build your confidence.

6. Balance Physical and Human Geography

It’s easy to favour topics you enjoy, but both Physical and Human Geography are equally important in your exams. Alternate your revision sessions between the two to ensure you have a balanced understanding. For example:

• One day, focus on tectonic hazards or coastal landscapes.
• The next, switch to urbanisation or global development.

7. Stay Updated on Current Events

Geography is a dynamic subject, that’s why I love it! Being aware of current global issues can give your answers an extra edge. For example:

• Use recent examples of climate change impacts, such as extreme weather events.
• Reference recent migration trends or geopolitical shifts in case studies.

Keeping up with news stories and incorporating them into your answers can show deeper understanding and relevance.

8. Look After Yourself

Don’t forget that effective revision depends on taking care of your mind and body. Ensure you’re:

• Taking regular breaks to avoid burnout (try the Pomodoro Technique: 25 minutes of work, followed by a 5-minute break).
• Staying hydrated and eating nourishing foods to keep your energy levels high.
• Getting enough sleep, as your brain processes information more effectively when you’re well-rested.

9. Ask for Help When Needed

If you’re struggling with specific topics, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Speak to your teacher, join a study group, or work with a tutor (like me!) to address gaps in your understanding. Sometimes, even a quick discussion with a friend or parent can clarify tricky concepts.

10. Visualise Success

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but staying positive can make all the difference. Visualise yourself walking into the exam room feeling confident and answering the questions with ease. A positive mindset, combined with thorough preparation, is the recipe for success.

Final Thoughts

Geography is an exciting and relevant subject, filled with opportunities to explore the natural world and human impact on it. By starting your revision early, using active techniques, and practicing exam questions, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle your GCSE or A-Level exams this summer. Remember, every study session counts, and you’ve got this!

Good luck with your revision, and may your Geography knowledge flow as smoothly as a meandering river!