The O-Level Chemistry Exam can seem a little intimidating at first. But, with the right style of study and revision, thousands and millions of candidates excel in the paper every single year. If you’re wondering how they achieve that dream score, well then, you’ve come to the right place. Revising for the exam effectively is half the battle, and in this post we’ve written down tips on exactly how you should do it.
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- Use the power of cheat sheets!
Cheat sheets are the best tools of revision – period. When your exam approaches and you’ve already gone through most of the content of the syllabus, it is finally time to make cheat sheets. Begin with a single chapter of your Chemistry book. Starting from the beginning, slowly work your way through it, noting down definitions, formulas, chemical equations, and key concepts (in short bullet points, as concisely as you can). Once you’re done, on a fresh page, repeat the same for another chapter. In this way, you will have your very own handmade set of cheat sheets, perfect for last minute revision. The best part? While you were making the sheets, you’ve already revised the entire syllabus once already.
- Hammer down the calculations
There isn’t much math in the chemistry syllabus, but you are still expected to know fundamental calculations, such as the number of moles, atoms, proton and neutron numbers etc. Moreover, you will be expected to know how to balance a chemical equation and write a compound’s formula from its elements’ valences. Commit a day to just solving mathematical problems like this so that you’re confident during the exam. Solve as many problems from previous question papers as you can.
- Skim previous question paper answers
Speaking of previous question papers, if you already have a bunch of them filled out, then you have the opportunity to implement a fantastic revision technique. Simply skim through these papers, by first reading over a question and then answering it in your head, before you look at your written answer. You can repeat this without having to write anything down, thus making the process even quicker.
- Use flashcards
There is a considerable amount of factual information that needs to be retained in order to do well in the O Level Chemistry exam. If you find yourself forgetting something, then flashcards are definitely an effective revision technique to use. On one side of the card, write the name of the chapter or topic from which the material you’re forgetting is from. Also, write a question. For instance, “What are three physical properties of transition elements?” could be a question. On the other side of the card, write down your question’s answer. In the same way, you can make as many flashcards as you need, and at random moments of the day, you can pull the cards out to see which ones you’re getting right, and take another look at the answers you’re getting wrong. Flashcards are a fantastic way to learn definitions especially.
- Create a glossary booklet
Definitions are common in the O-Level Chemistry exam, more so in Paper 2 (Theoretical Questions). Therefore, a glossary booklet containing handwritten definitions of all the key words in your chemistry book can help you out a lot. If you don’t have enough time to make one, then consider skimming to the back of your book and if you’re lucky, you might find one there. You can also find such glossary documents on the internet; and of course, there is always the option of simply making one yourself.
- Don’t be afraid to underline, jot notes, and highlight
This tip works great if you already have a bunch of notes ready. Now in order to begin revision, you don’t have to make new notes from afresh. Pick up a marker or a highlighter and while rereading through your notes, mark them. Highlight a definition or an equation. Underline an important formula. This is a really effective way to revise and in doing so, you will also be able to keep track of the material that you’ve already finished.
- Finish revising in sprints
The O-Level syllabus is big to say the very least, and trying to finish every single thing in one run is a mistake. Revise for 20 minutes, and then take a 2-5 minute break. During this time, take a walk, drink a glass of water, and treat yourself to some chocolate. Repeat. Studying smartly is better than studying continuously any day.
In our post we’ve included several tried and tested revision techniques designed to help you make the best out of your study time. This is no way a complete list, however. Try the suggestions here and then keep trying – soon, you will find out exactly what works for you.
Read Also:
6 Answering Tips to Excel At O-Level Chemistry
Time planning for the O-level Chemistry Examination
