How to approach your GCSE resit with confidence

If you’re resitting your maths or English language GCSE this November, you’re not alone.

Around three in ten year 11 students didn't achieve a grade 4 in maths or English over exam season this year - that's around seven in an average class. Like you, many of these learners go on to resit their exams to achieve the grade they need for their next step towards college, apprenticeships or a job.

This BBC Bitesize article offers advice and tips on how to prepare for your resits and look after your wellbeing to set yourself up for success.

Exams can be anxiety-inducing for even the best-prepared student, especially if your first attempt didn’t go as you’d hoped. If you revise and have a clear plan for your resit, you can walk into the exam knowing you've given yourself the best possible chance of success.

In fact, a bit of nerves can actually help you to focus and do your best on exam day. But if you start to feel overwhelmed, take a deep breath and focus on the next question you can answer. When you feel ready, give it another go.

Revise little and often

Revising little and often is usually more effective than trying to learn everything at the last minute. Even 20 to 30 minutes a day can help build knowledge and confidence over time. And, revision doesn't have to involve you sat in silence at a desk. Our GCSE resit hub has a load of videos, quizzes and even podcasts for you to change up your revision.

You might think cramming a year's worth of learning into a couple of days will help, but short, regular revision sessions are often easier to remember and less stressful.

Do a timed past paper

Past papers are one of the best ways to prepare for your resit. They help you get familiar with the types of questions that appear in the exam and show you which topics you need to spend more time on.

Once you've worked through a few questions, try completing a paper under timed conditions. This helps you practise managing your time and gives you a better idea of what the real exam will feel like.

Think like an examiner

Afterwards, use the mark scheme to see how marks are awarded. Looking at examiner expectations can help you understand the methods, vocabulary and steps needed to gain marks, even if you don't always reach the final answer.

Following a general guide of a mark a minute is a great way to give yourself a sense of how long to spend on particular questions. It’s all about exam technique!

Get organised

Make a note of your exam dates and add them to your calendar. Knowing exactly when your exams are can help you create a realistic revision plan and avoid last-minute surprises.

Manage stress

Revision is important, but so is taking care of yourself. Studying for hours without a break can leave you feeling tired, stressed and less able to concentrate.

Try to build regular breaks into your revision routine. Going for a walk, doing some exercise, listening to music or spending time with friends can help you recharge and come back to your studies with a clearer mind.

It's also important to make time for the things you enjoy. Resitting an exam can feel like a lot of pressure, but it shouldn't take over your whole life. Striking a balance between revision and downtime can help you stay motivated and avoid burnout.

Remember, confidence isn't just built through revision. Looking after your physical and mental wellbeing can help you feel calmer, more focused and better prepared when exam day arrives.

Get enough sleep

A good night's sleep can help improve concentration, memory and focus. Try to maintain a regular sleep routine in the week leading up to your exams, rather than staying up late revising.

Prepare the night before

Pack any equipment you'll need, such as pens and calculators, and check where and when your exam takes place.

Focus on what you can control

You can't change what happened in your previous exam, but you can control how you prepare for this one. Every revision session, past paper and practice question is a step towards feeling more confident on exam day.

Remember you're not alone

Thousands of students resit GCSE maths and English every year. A resit is another opportunity to show what you've learned and move closer to your goals.