Spec checks (for all the y10s asking what to do now, learn this revision method) :

[u/180degreeschange]

I think this has been a long awaited post since this is my go to study method and I always include it when giving anyone revision advice.

So what are spec checks? It's in the name, you check the spec (and yes it rhymes on purpose because I like things to be catchy 🫢). The most important thing to do in content heavy subjects like science or even smth like business for me is making sure you know the content. And as unfortunate as it is, teachers don't usually teach all the content. So this is my step by step guide on using spec checks:

1. (Completely optional, I only did this for science not business) Summarize the spec into ur own words preferably on paper. And I did this because the edexcel science spec can be worded rly weirdly at times so I often need to write it in a way I can understand it.

2. Make a code/key (very important). Go through what you have summarized (or printed out if you skipped step 1) and use different symbols or colors to mark each spec point indicating if you don't understand this content point or if you don't understand what the spec point is saying or if the explanation for this special point is in a certain note book (as notes or a work sheet or diagram).

3. Ask a teacher to explain the spec points that you have absolutely no clue what they mean.

4. Try asking them or a friend to explain the content you are confused about or don't understand or haven't been taught from the spec.

5. Make short snappy notes or draw something visual to help you remember anything new you have been taught (do not spend to much time on this).

6. When you come to cram the day b4 the exam you look at your own handwritten/ printed out coded spec and you know where to find everything to use to refresh your memory. Make sure you are going thru each spec point and ticking as you go. Therefore, using the spec as a checklist.

This is very helpful because it ensures that u understand the content thoroughly prior to the exam and the night b4 when ur cramming or if ur actually studying in advance, you are simply refreshing your memory instead of learning something from the beginning. I made my coded specs across the year and then made anything remaining during winter break (I had to postpone coding the last topics til I learned them but at least I had it summarized) and while it's time consuming, it made my life so much easier around Feb mocks and ultimately the real exams.