Year 11 Goes Faster Than You Think - Do These 5 Things Early
Year 11 doesn’t feel rushed at the start, but suddenly it’s mocks, then exams, then it’s over. The students who cope best aren’t the ones who panic-revise at the end, but the ones who quietly put systems in place early on.
In this video, a former GCSE student (David) shares five habits that helped him stay organised, avoid burnout and walk into exams feeling calmer and more prepared. It’s practical advice focused on planning ahead, using feedback properly, and managing stress; especially useful if you want Year 11 to feel controlled instead of chaotic.
Watch this if you want future-you to feel grateful.
Five GCSE Tips That Make Year 11 Easier
Here are my five tips for GCSEs - especially if you want Year 11 to feel more manageable.
1. Make Revision Resources by the End of Year 10
One of the most important things you can do is make your revision resources by the end of Year 10.
This makes your life so much easier later on.
I made flashcards and summary sheets early, then added to them in Year 11 as new topics finished.
Staying organised like this means you're always prepared - and you'll genuinely thank yourself by the end of Year 11.
2. Do Past Paper Questions and Use Teacher Feedback
Do lots of past paper questions, especially for English Literature.
Give your answers to your teacher to mark and make sure you actually use their feedback.
This helped me massively when I was writing answers for predicted questions in Year 11.
Remember - your teacher is there to help you get the grades you want.
3. Don't Revise Too Much
Revision is important, but too much can be harmful.
Over-revising can lead to burnout, which makes everything feel harder.
Instead of doing everything at once, revise for shorter periods with breaks in between.
For example, try one hour of revision followed by a 20-30 minute break.
4. Stay Calm Before Exams
Feeling stressed before exams is completely normal.
The key is not to overthink the exam or convince yourself it will be impossible.
Staying calm and collected helps you focus better and avoid silly mistakes.
5. Time Flies in Year 11 - Stay Organised
Year 11 goes incredibly fast.
Stay organised, stay on task and don't waste time in lessons.
Try to revise for at least an hour a day.
Before you know it, you'll be sitting in the exam hall, so make sure all that learning doesn't go to waste.
Quick Recap - GCSE Habits That Help
- Make revision resources early.
- Use past papers and teacher feedback.
- Avoid burnout by revising in short sessions.
- Stay calm to avoid careless mistakes.
- Stay organised - Year 11 moves fast.
These habits don't just help with grades - they make GCSEs feel far more manageable.
