Breaking Down Revision: ADHD-Friendly Strategies for GCSE & A-Level Students

Revision season can feel overwhelming for any student. The endless notes, chapters, and practice questions can look like one huge mountain to climb. For neurodivergent learners, especially those with ADHD, the challenge isn’t just the content - it’s knowing where to start and how to keep going.

But revision doesn’t have to be an impossible task. By breaking it down into smaller, structured steps, students can turn “I’ll never manage this” into “I’ve got this.”

Why Revision Can Be Overwhelming for ADHD Students

Large assignments or whole exam syllabuses can trigger procrastination. For many students, especially those who struggle with executive functioning, the problem isn’t ability, it’s organisation. When the brain sees “revise all of history,” it panics. The trick is to reduce the size of the task until it feels doable.

Chunking the Work

Chunking means dividing big tasks into smaller, more achievable pieces.

• Instead of “revise Macbeth,” focus on “create notes for Act 1.”

• Swap “study algebra” for “practice 10 quadratic questions.”

• Tick off each chunk as it’s completed. Small wins build motivation!

  
  

Time-Blocking: A Key Revision Strategy for ADHD Learners

Time-blocking helps prevent long, draining revision marathons.

• Work in short bursts (e.g. 25 minutes of focus, 5 minutes of rest).

• Switch subjects regularly to stay engaged.

• Use timers, alarms, or apps to stick to the rhythm.

Short, focused sessions are far more effective than hours of distracted studying.

Visual Timetables

Many students find visual cues easier to follow than written lists.

• Colour-code subjects and topics.

• Add breaks, meals, and downtime to keep balance.

• Keep the timetable in sight - above the desk, or even on a phone wallpaper.

A clear visual plan turns “chaos” into structure.

How Walron Supports ADHD Students with Personalised Revision Strategies

At Walron, we understand the challenges neurodivergent students face when it comes to revision. Our tutors use strategies like chunking, time-blocking, and visual supports to make learning manageable and achievable. With the right guidance, big tasks become smaller steps, and smaller steps lead to real progress.

Revision isn’t about doing everything at once, it’s about moving forward, one step at a time.