How Much GCSE Revision Should My Child Be Doing Each Day?

How Much GCSE Revision Should My Child Be Doing Each Day?

As exam season approaches, one of the most common questions we hear at Tilly’s Tutoring is: “How much revision should my child be doing each day?” It’s a question that can cause stress for both students and parents alike — but the good news is that with the right structure, consistency, and support, revision can become far more manageable. At Tilly’s Tutoring, we believe that quality always beats quantity when it comes to studying effectively.

Finding the Right Balance

The amount of revision a child should do each day depends on several factors — their year group, how close exams are, and how confident they feel in each subject. For most students, it’s not about cramming for endless hours but developing a steady, sustainable routine that keeps motivation high and stress low.

If your child is in Year 10, an hour to 90 minutes a day during the school week is a great place to start. This helps them build good habits early without feeling overwhelmed. Closer to the exams, in Year 11, two to three hours of focused revision per day (with plenty of breaks) is usually ideal. On weekends or during holidays, this might increase to around four hours — but it’s important to remember that breaks, exercise, and downtime are vital too.

At Tilly’s Tutoring, we often remind students that consistency is key. Doing a little bit every day is far more effective than leaving everything until the last few weeks. A short, focused study session beats a long, distracted one every time.

Quality Over Quantity

Many students think more hours mean better results, but that’s not always true. The most successful revision comes from working smarter, not just harder. Using techniques such as active recall, past paper practice, and spaced repetition helps information stick far better than passive rereading.

Encourage your child to use a timer to stay focused — for example, the Pomodoro Technique, which involves 25 minutes of study followed by a five-minute break. After four rounds, take a longer rest. It’s simple but incredibly effective for keeping concentration levels high.

Our team at Tilly’s Tutoring often helps students create personalised study timetables that suit their individual learning styles and goals. Every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another — that’s why tailored support can make such a difference.

Building Confidence Along the Way

Revision isn’t just about memorising facts — it’s about building confidence and reducing exam anxiety. Parents can play a big part by encouraging their child, helping them plan their time, and celebrating progress along the way. Even small achievements deserve recognition!

Remember, it’s okay to have off days. What matters most is getting back into routine the next day. With structure, support, and the right mindset, GCSE preparation can actually become an empowering experience.

If you’d like expert guidance and practical advice on how to help your child plan and manage their revision, Tilly’s Tutoring is here to help.

👉 Visit www.tillys-tutoring today to book a GCSE revision tips session and give your child the confidence and structure they need to succeed.