If May/June 2026 exams are close and revision time is limited, these last-minute tips can still help you perform better.

1. Prioritise Ruthlessly

• Focus on weak areas – Topics you can improve quickly
• Review high-mark topics – Where you can gain the most
• Skip low-yield topics – If you really don’t have time

2. Use Past Papers

• Do at least one past paper per subject under timed conditions
• Mark using the mark scheme – See what examiners want
• Focus on question types – Structure and command words

3. Create Quick Reference Sheets

• Formulae – Maths, Physics, Chemistry
• Key definitions – Sciences, Economics
• Short topic summaries – One page per topic
• Review on the morning of the exam – Light last-minute review only

4. Sleep Well

• Don’t pull all-nighters – Sleep improves recall
• 7–8 hours before each exam
• Rest the night before – Avoid heavy revision

5. Stay Calm

• Breathe slowly – Before and during the exam
• Read instructions – Avoid careless mistakes
• Answer easier questions first – Build confidence
• Don’t panic if you blank – Move on and return later

6. Avoid

• Learning large amounts of new content – Focus on consolidating
• Cramming on exam morning – Keep it light
• Comparing with others – Focus on your own performance
• Negative self-talk – “I’ve done my best” is more helpful

7. The Night Before

• Light review only
• Pack your bag
• Eat a normal meal
• Get to bed on time

Remember

You can’t revise everything in the last few days. Use the time to strengthen weak spots, practice past papers, and stay rested. Good luck.

Tutopiya helps students prepare for IGCSE exams through expert one-to-one online tutoring. We offer the world’s largest AI-powered IGCSE resources bank to support your revision and exam success.