Looking for some tips on how to revise for English Literature GCSE exams? Look no further! Here at Beyond, we know that revision can be a pain. But we are here to help you find revision techniques that work for you. There are a lot of different ways to revise for English Literature exams – some might work better for you than others. 

If you’re more of a visual learner, mind maps might be your thing. You might have a daily routine and want to add your revision to it. Then there are some tried and tested methods that we think will really help you get the best grades you can! Keep reading to find out how to revise for your English Literature GCSE in a way that suits you.

• Create mind maps. Mind maps can help you see all the information you need in one go. You might need to remember some key quotes, and you’ll definitely need to remember themes. Having all of the most important details laid out in a way that engages you can help you take in more information.
• Use practice papers. We know, you’ll have done them to death in school, but they are truly one of the best ways to practise before your exam. The more prepared you feel, the less daunting the exam will be. One of the best things about practice papers is the fact that you can use the mark scheme to help you! You’ll be able to learn from your mistakes and see if there are specific things you can work on. On the Twinkl website, you’ll find resources you can use like this Macbeth Mini Exam Pack and our AQA Unseen Poetry Practice Exam Questions.
• Watch the films. There is a chance that there’s a film adaptation of the book you’ve been studying. If your brain is feeling frazzled, it can help to watch the film version as a reminder of the key plot points and themes. However, do not use the film as a replacement for the book. The film may not be an accurate representation of the books, so it is important to know the differences between them. Examiners will know if you only use the film, and they won’t be impressed. Only use films as a support tool.
• Create a daily routine. Daily revision tasks like this one for An Inspector Calls can help you examine the writing in new ways and remember some of the most important quotes. Why not do one of the tasks at the same time as one of your other routines, like brushing your teeth? 
• Use flashcards. Quizzing yourself with flashcards can really help jog your memory. Flashcards are extra handy because you can carry them with you. Do you have a spare moment waiting for your bus? Then why not practise your knowledge of important quotes while you wait? You could use these quotation quiz flashcards for A Christmas Carol for inspiration.
• Get creative. Let your artistic side loose and create revision material that works for you! Make posters, art, music, whatever it is that gets your creative side working and connect it to your revision.
• Read aloud (and maybe record yourself). This technique is particularly helpful for plays and poetry. Both of these mediums are created to be read out loud, and doing so can help you pick up on things you might miss just by reading. Certain rhythms and rhymes only come out when said aloud! This method can also help you if you learn best by listening.

There are so many other techniques you can use to revise for your exam, and you might come up with some brand-new ones! How to revise for your English Literature GCSE really comes down to you and your way of connecting with the material. Why not share your revision ideas in the comments below?

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