Struggling to get back into exam prep after a break? Discover practical tips and strategies to get focused and organised to ace your exams. Read on for expert advice and actionable steps.

Taking a break from studying can feel like a relief, but if you’ve been away from your exam preparation for a while, getting back into the swing of things can seem overwhelming. Whether you’ve been dealing with personal issues, taking a well-deserved rest, or simply lost motivation, the key is to ease back into your study routine with a clear plan and positive mindset.

This blog will provide you with expert strategies and tips on how to get back on track with your exam preparation after a break. By the end, you’ll feel more confident, organised, and ready to take on the challenges ahead. Let’s get started!

1. Acknowledge and Reflect on the Break

Before diving straight into revision, it’s important to acknowledge the break you’ve had and reflect on it. Understand why you took a break in the first place. Was it to recharge, or did you experience burnout? Reflection will help you identify whether there’s any lingering stress or anxiety around the break that needs to be addressed.

Tip: Start by journaling your thoughts. This can be a simple way to express any frustration or anxiety you may have about getting back into your routine. Journaling can also provide clarity about your feelings and motivate you to take positive steps forward.

If you’re unsure how to start journaling, check out The Benefits of Journaling for Mental Health to understand how this practice can help reduce stress and boost productivity.

2. Set Realistic Goals

Now that you’ve reflected on the break, it’s time to set realistic and achievable goals for your exam preparation. Jumping into an ambitious study schedule can lead to burnout quickly. Start small and gradually increase your efforts.

Tip: Break down your revision into manageable chunks. Focus on one subject at a time, and set daily goals. For instance, aim to revise one chapter a day for each subject, or create weekly targets. Prioritise subjects that you may have neglected during the break.

3. Create a Study Schedule

One of the most effective ways to get back on track with exam preparation is by creating a study schedule. A well-structured plan will provide you with a clear roadmap and ensure you stay on track without feeling overwhelmed.

Tip: Schedule your study time around when you feel most productive. If you’re a morning person, tackle your most challenging subjects first thing in the day. If you work better in the evenings, set aside your prime study hours during the afternoon or evening.

4. Start with a Review of What You’ve Already Learned

Rather than starting from scratch, begin by reviewing what you’ve already studied. This will refresh your memory and help you identify gaps in your knowledge. It’s important to regain confidence in your understanding of the material before you move forward.

Tip: Use past notes, textbooks, and revision guides to revisit key concepts. Create summary sheets or flashcards to summarise information in a way that’s easy to recall. Revisiting old notes will not only help reinforce what you’ve already learned but will also boost your confidence.

If you need help with summarising your notes, check out this guide on effective note-taking by Study Well.

5. Focus on Time Management

Getting back into exam preparation after a break often feels like you’re racing against time. Good time management is crucial to avoid stress and ensure you cover all necessary material before the exam.

Tip: Use the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of focused study followed by a 5-minute break) to stay productive without feeling burnt out. Tools like Trello or Google Calendar can help you manage your time effectively.

Explore this article on time management strategies for students by the American Psychological Association for more tips on how to stay on track.

6. Eliminate Distractions

When you’re getting back into study mode, distractions can quickly derail your progress. Create a distraction-free environment that allows you to focus fully on your work.

Tip: Put your phone on ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode, use website blockers (e.g. Cold Turkey, StayFocusd) to prevent distractions, and find a quiet, comfortable place to study. A distraction-free space can help you concentrate better and retain more information.

7. Take Care of Your Wellbeing

The pressure of getting back on track with exam preparation can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Prioritising self-care is essential to maintain focus and prevent burnout.

Tip: Eat well, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. Incorporate mindfulness techniques like deep breathing exercises or meditation to reduce stress and increase your focus. Maintaining a healthy routine can significantly improve your productivity.

8. Seek Help If Needed

If you’re finding it difficult to get back on track, don’t hesitate to seek help. There’s no shame in asking for assistance, whether it’s from a tutor, a study group, or an online resource.

Tip: Consider joining a study group, hiring a tutor, or accessing online courses for additional support. Sometimes, talking through the material with others or receiving one-on-one assistance can make a big difference.

At Exam Centre London, we offer a variety of exam preparation resources, including tailored tuition to help you succeed.

9. Stay Consistent and Don’t Overdo It

Consistency is key when it comes to exam preparation. It’s important to pace yourself and avoid overloading your schedule in an attempt to catch up quickly. Small, consistent efforts will yield better results than trying to cram all the material at once.

Tip: Plan to study in small intervals, such as 2-3 hours at a time, with regular breaks. Stick to your study timetable as closely as possible, but allow yourself time to relax.

Read more about avoiding burnout and maintaining consistency in this article on study consistency from the National Institutes of Health.

10. Track Your Progress and Adjust as Needed

As you begin to study again, monitor your progress and be flexible with your schedule. If certain subjects require more time, adjust your plan accordingly. Regular self-assessment will keep you on track and help you achieve your goals.

Tip: Use practice exams or quizzes to gauge your understanding and track improvement. This can also help identify areas that need more attention before the exam.

Conclusion

Getting back on track after a break doesn’t have to be a stressful or overwhelming experience. By setting realistic goals, creating a study schedule, eliminating distractions, and taking care of your mental and physical health, you’ll be well on your way to exam success.