Top Revision Techniques for SATs & 11-Plus Success (2025 Guide)

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Why Smart Revision Matters

2. SATs and 11 Plus Explained

3. When to Start and How to Plan

4. Proven Revision Techniques That Work

5. Subject-by-Subject Strategies

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

7. Parental Support: How to Help Your Child

8. Tools, Apps, and Resources for 2025

9. The Final 30-Day Revision Plan

10. Summary and Call to Action

1. Introduction: Why Smart Revision Matters in 2025

Revision is the bridge between what a child knows and how they perform under pressure. With 2025 SATs and 11 Plus exams becoming more competitive, using the right revision strategies can make all the difference.

At Read With Us, we provide expert tutors in Maths, English, Science, Phonics, and SATs/11 Plus Prep. We've helped hundreds of students prepare efficiently using smart, focused revision methods.

2. SATs and 11 Plus Explained

SATs (Year 6)

SATs measure attainment in:

• Maths (Arithmetic & Reasoning)

• English Reading

• Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling

• Writing (teacher-assessed)

They are used to place children in appropriate Year 7 groups.

11 Plus

A selective entrance exam for grammar schools that covers:

• English

• Maths

• Verbal Reasoning

• Non-Verbal Reasoning

Scoring well often requires months of preparation and targeted practice.

3. When to Start and How to Plan

Recommended Start Times:

• SATs: Begin revision 3–6 months before the test date

• 11 Plus: Begin structured prep 9–12 months ahead

Sample Weekly Study Plan:

4. Proven Revision Techniques That Work

1. Spaced Repetition

Revisit key topics regularly using flashcards, review books, or apps.

2. Active Recall

Encourage your child to explain topics aloud or quiz themselves.

3. Timed Practice with Past Papers

• Builds exam stamina

• Highlights weak areas

• Boosts confidence

4. Mind Mapping

Helps children visualise relationships between topics, especially in grammar or reasoning.

5. Subject-by-Subject Strategies

 English

• Practice reading comprehension regularly

• Build vocabulary through reading

• Focus on writing structure (beginning, middle, end)

 Maths

• Daily mental maths

• Repetition of times tables

• Practice word problems and multi-step calculations

 Verbal Reasoning

• Code-breaking

• Word meaning puzzles

• Vocabulary building games

 Non-Verbal Reasoning

• Shape patterns

• Odd-one-out exercises

• 3D visualisation and puzzles

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Cramming last minute: leads to stress and poor retention

• Ignoring weak subjects: every section counts

• Lack of breaks: tired brains don’t learn

• Doing too much at once: overwhelm reduces confidence

7. Parental Support: How to Help Your Child

• Create a calm, clutter-free study space

• Stick to a consistent routine

• Celebrate progress (not just results)

• Avoid pressure—encourage effort, not just perfection

8. Tools, Apps, and Resources for 2025

Recommended Tools:

• CGP Practice Books (SATs and 11+)

• BBC Bitesize

• Atom Learning or Bond Online

• Quizlet for flashcards

• Read With Us Tutors for personalised, live sessions

9. The Final 30-Day Revision Plan

Last Month Strategy:

Weeks 1–2:

• Focus on weak areas

• Do at least 2 full practice papers

Week 3:

• Time yourself under test conditions

• Mix topics for revision

Week 4:

• Light review only

• Early nights and positive reinforcement

• No new topics—only strengthening known material

10. Summary and Call to Action

Success in SATs and the 11 Plus doesn’t depend on natural intelligence—it depends on preparation, consistency, and support. With the right revision plan, your child can approach their exams with confidence and skill.

At Read With Us, we provide expert tutors who guide students through every step—offering:

• One-to-one tailored lessons

• Structured group revision sessions

• Online learning you can access from anywhere in the UK

📞 Ready to Help Your Child Succeed?

👉 Visit readwithus.org.uk to book a free consultation or browse our expert Maths, English, Phonics, and SATs Tutors.