Prelims Are Coming Up. How Much Revision Is Actually Enough for National 5 & Higher??

As prelims approach, many families across Scotland start to feel the pressure build. Revision increases, expectations rise, and it can quickly feel as though more must always be done. Effective revision isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what works.

When revision starts to feel overwhelming

Prelims often highlight gaps in understanding or dips in confidence. This can lead to frustration, avoidance, or pupils feeling they “can’t do” certain subjects. When revision becomes stressful, adding extra hours rarely helps. What pupils usually need instead is clear explanations, reassurance, and time to revisit key topics calmly.

This is where flexible support can make a real difference.

What actually helps pupils prepare

Experience shows that pupils make the best progress when they:

• Focus on one subject or topic at a time
• Revisit explanations rather than rush through content
• Work in short, managable sessions
• Learn at a pace that suits them

Scottish Online Lessons is designed around exactly this approach.

How Scottish Online Lessons supports calm revision

SOL provides curriculum-aligned video lessons created by Scottish teachers, covering Primary 1 to S6. Lessons are available 24/7 and can be paused, rewound and rewatched as often as needed.

During prelim season, many families use SOL to:

• Revisit topics pupils are unsure about
• Focus revision on specific areas rather than whole courses
• Reduce pressure by allowing pupils to learn independently 
• Rebuild confidence through clear, structured explanations

This flexible approach helps pupils feel more in control of their learning, something that is especially important during exam preparation.

Support doesn’t have to add pressure

Extra support doesn’t need to mean intense schedules or long-term commitments. Sometimes, simply having access to the right explanations at the right time is enough to steady confidence. SOL allows families to use lessons alongside school learning, dipping in where support is needed most. For pupils who need more guidance, tutoring support is also available, but many families find the lessons alone provide the clarity they’re looking for.

There is no “right” amount of revision

Every pupil is different. What matters most is that revision feels manageable, focused and calm. Prelims are important, but confidence and understanding are just as valuable as exam results. Small, steady steps often lead to the biggest improvements.

Try Scottish Online Lessons during prelim season

Scottish Online Lessons offers a free trial, giving pupils full access to lessons so families can see whether this calm, flexible approach works for them with no obligation. For many families, knowing that support is there is enough to reduce stress and make this phase feel more manageable.

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