GET THE HOMEWORK HABIT

We know that homework and revision can be a bore, but remember why you're doing it! Homework helps to reinforce what you learned in class and doing it well will improve your marks and exam performance.

Here are our top ten tips for getting into a good homework habit. If you've got advice we haven't mentioned here, please share it as a comment at the end of the article!

1. Get organised
Use a personal organiser or homework diary to record your homework. Write down what you need to do in as much detail as you can, so that it still makes sense when you read it a few days later.

2. Highlight the best bits
Underline or highlight key facts or points during your lesson, so that you can skim read more effectively when it comes to doing your homework or revision. You could also write notes in the margin of a handout or textbook.

3. Get the timing right
Everybody has a different body clock, so you need to work out when is the best time to do your homework. For some, it'll be straight after school, whilst others will work best later in the evening. Some might even prefer to work first thing in the morning at weekends! Everyone is different.

4. Do the most difficult tasks first
It's a good idea to do the hardest things, or the subjects you're least interested in, first. These might take you longer than you expected and by tackling it early, there'll be time to ask someone for help if you're totally stuck.

5. Take a break
Work out how much time you have for a particular piece of work and then decide when, during that time, you will have a break. It's important to do this, because learning and focusing is more difficult when you're bored or tired. Have a soft drink too, as hydration is important for concentration.

6. Remove distractions
If you're surrounded by things you would rather do than study, you will probably do those things instead of studying! Put away your mobile phone and visit The Buzz when you've finished your homework!

7. Reward yourself
If you've completed a big project or done loads of studying for an exam and you're confident you've done your very best, then treat yourself. Have an ice cream, and don't hold back on the chocolate sauce! You deserve it!

8. Study with your friends
It won't work for all subjects, but doing your homework or revision with friends might make it more fun, plus other people's perspectives on a topic can help you to learn about it. Try visual techniques, like making posters or revision cards together.

9. Ask for help
If you're struggling to form a good homework habit, don't be afraid to talk to your teachers. Even if your school doesn't operate a homework help session at lunchtime or after school, many teachers will help you during this time if you ask nicely. Don't be afraid, it shows you're keen to succeed.

10. Just do it!
Once you do, you'll feel loads better than when you were worrying about it! It's good to tackle your homework whilst the lesson is still fresh in your mind. The longer you put off your homework, the more difficult it becomes – you might forget important information.

• Are you stuck on your homework? Got a question you can’t answer? Have a look here and ask your question for some help.