Revision and exams
Revision is most effective when you test yourself by retrieving information from memory, rather than simply re-reading it. Many of the tools suggested here focus on this approach, which is why they tend to be more effective than just reviewing notes.
One thing to be mindful of is how much time you spend creating elaborate flashcards. This can take away from the more valuable activity of actually using them. The real benefit comes from testing yourself, so it’s important to move on to self-quizzing as soon as possible.
Revision and exams software
- Quizlet: make and study flashcard sets, with quizzes and games built in. Free, with extra features behind a paid tier.
- Anki: free flashcards built around spaced repetition, showing you each card just before you are likely to forget it. It takes a little more effort to set up, but many students find it effective for memorising.
- PeerWise: if your course uses it you will find it on Canvas. It allows you to write your own multiple-choice questions and answer those written by your classmates, which can be an effective way to revise together.
- Brainscape: flashcards with a confidence-based system (freemium).
