Knee-deep in GCSE or A-Level revision? There's no way of avoiding or fast-tracking it, but there are tools and gadgets that can help you focus and revise more effectively. I've rounded up my ultimate revision kit below.
Let's start with the tech. If you're revising on a laptop, a proper setup will make a big difference. Investing in a laptop stand to elevate the screen, and separate Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, means you won't be hunched awkwardly over a screen for hours. If your wrist is starting to complain, it's a really smart idea to switch to an ergonomic or upright mouse (do it now; you need that hand in good, working order for your exams).
My exam days are behind me, but if I'm trying to focus on a tricky task, my non-negotiable is a decent pair of noise-cancelling headphones. I'm wearing some right now, to drown out the deafening sound of the mechanical keyboard on the desk beside mine (should be banned in offices; this is a hill I will die on). I've included some of our top-rated options below.
If the amount of learning required feels overwhelming, a Pomodoro timer is great for breaking revision sessions into manageable chunks of focused time. Analogue solutions still have their place too. For consolidating information, you can't beat a well-organised cue card — I've included colourful and plain white options, as well as a range of pens and highlighters for emphasising key info.
One final tip if you're prone to procrastination is to install a site-blocking app on your phone and/or laptop. It's a sure-fire way to make sure you don't accidentally end up going down an Instagram / TikTok rabbit hole when you need to be learning. Happy studying.
Revision essentials
Pros
- Satisfying clicks
- Good customizations
- Easy three-way switching
Cons
- No side buttons
- No wired or 2.4GHz wireless
- No rechargeable battery
Pros
- Ergonomically wonderful for small or medium-sized hands
- Deep customizations to help streamline workflows
- Connectivity options for those with multiple devices
Cons
- Connectivity button could be somewhere more convenient
- Sensor was a little finicky with our review unit
1MORE Sonoflow Pro HQ51 over-ear headphones
Pros
- Customizable, satisfying sound
- Effective ANC
- Fantastic battery life
Cons
- App situation is a bit messy
- Button controls appear a little cheap
- Build slightly flimsy
Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise Canceling Headphones
Pros
- Excellent noise-cancellation
- Wonderful sounding performance
- Smart ambient features
- An app you'll actually want to use
Cons
- New design is less portable
- Still no water resistance
- More expensive than previous models
- Not a gigantic upgrade over the still-excellent WH-1000XM4
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (1st gen)
Pros
- Fantastic, detailed sound with rich bass
- Class-leading noise-stopping power
- Comfortable and premium, with folding design
- Great smart features
Cons
- 24-hour battery life is weak
- Some will prefer a more neutral sound
- No USB-C audio input
- No LE Audio support (but it's promised)
