The festive season is here! With mince pies in the kitchen, Christmas lights twinkling, and holiday movies on repeat, it’s easy to get caught up in the season’s magic. But for students preparing for upcoming exams, balancing rest and study over Christmas can feel like a juggling act.
Fear not—there’s plenty of room for both festive fun and productive revision if you plan ahead. Here are some tips and tricks to help students stay on track while enjoying the holiday cheer.
1. Create a Festive Revision Schedule
A well-planned schedule is your secret weapon for balancing work and play. Map out specific times for study sessions and stick to them. Shorter, focused study periods are far more effective than hours of cramming, so aim for 25- to 45-minute sessions with regular breaks.
- Tip: Use a colourful calendar or festive stickers to make your schedule fun and motivating. Pencil in time for family activities and Christmas traditions so you can look forward to those moments.
2. Turn Your Study Space into a Winter Wonderland
Studying doesn’t have to feel like a chore, especially when your study area is cosy and inviting. A tidy, comfortable workspace can boost concentration and make learning more enjoyable.
- Ideas: Add fairy lights, a festive candle, or a soft throw to your chair. Just make sure the space is free from distractions so you can focus during study time.
- Bonus Tip: Pair revision with a hot chocolate—it’s a seasonal treat that makes studying a little sweeter!
3. Combine Study with Seasonal Activities
Who says studying can’t be festive? Get creative and blend revision with the holiday spirit:
- Flashcard Challenge: Write quiz questions on flashcards and turn them into a family game after dinner.
- Christmas Carol Study Sessions: If you’re revising a subject like history, pair it with instrumental Christmas music to set the mood (just make sure it’s not too distracting!).
- Decorate with Learning: Stick keynotes or diagrams around your room as part of your holiday decorations.
4. Make Time for Winter Reading
Winter is the perfect season for curling up with a good book—and winter reading is a fantastic way to relax while building critical thinking and comprehension skills. Whether your child prefers classic stories like A Christmas Carol or fantasy adventures like The Chronicles of Narnia, reading supports learning without feeling like work.
- For Younger Readers: Try The Jolly Christmas Postman by Janet and Allan Ahlberg.
- For Teens: Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials series is perfect for those who love a magical winter tale.
5. Embrace Active Revision Techniques
Keep revision engaging and dynamic with methods that encourage active learning. For example, try creating mind maps to organise ideas, using online quizzes to test knowledge, or teaching tricky concepts to a family member. Active revision helps retain information and breaks the monotony of passive reading.
6. Reward Progress with Festive Treats
Incorporating rewards into your revision routine can be a great motivator. Set small goals for each study session and treat yourself when you achieve them.
- Ideas: Enjoy a Christmas biscuit after completing a maths problem set or take a festive walk after finishing a practice essay.
7. Don’t Skip Rest and Relaxation
Christmas is a time for family, friends, and festivities, so don’t forget to enjoy the holiday magic. Taking breaks is just as important as studying, giving your brain time to process information and recharge.
- Activity Ideas: Spend time baking Christmas treats, playing games with family, or watching your favourite holiday films. These moments of joy can reduce stress and keep you motivated.
8. Reflect on the Year and Set Goals for the Next
Use the quieter moments of the holidays to reflect on your progress so far. What went well this term? Where can you improve? Setting small, achievable goals for the next academic term will help you hit the ground running in January.
A Merry Christmas and a Bright New Year
At Tutor Doctor, we believe the holidays are a time to celebrate achievements and prepare for future success. Whether your child needs help creating a study plan, tackling tricky subjects, or building confidence, our personalised tutoring services are here to help.
Find your nearest Tutor Doctor tutor today, and let’s make 2025 your child’s most successful year yet.
From all of us at Tutor Doctor, we wish you and your family a Merry Christmas! May it be filled with joy and plenty of festive cheer. Oh, and a sprinkling of learning, too!
