With the 2026 A-Level exams fast approaching, students are looking for the most effective ways to revise. The truth is, there isn’t one single “best” method — but there are certain resources that consistently help students achieve top grades. From classic past papers to innovative digital tools, the right combination can transform your revision.
This guide breaks down the top 10 revision resources for A-Level students in 2026, explaining why each one matters, how to use it, and how to combine them for maximum results.
1. Past Papers and Mark Schemes
Past papers are the foundation of A-Level revision. They are the real exam papers from previous years, complete with official mark schemes.
Why it works in 2026: Exam boards rarely repeat questions word-for-word, but the styles of questions and the ways marks are awarded stay consistent. By working through past papers, you’ll see patterns emerge and become familiar with the structure of your subject’s exams.
Tip: Always mark your own answers with the official mark scheme. This teaches you how examiners think.
2. Predicted Papers (ResourcesToday.com)
Predicted papers are designed to replicate the style and difficulty of upcoming exams, using insights from exam trends and previous paper patterns.
Why it works in 2026: Past papers stop at 2025 — but students sitting exams in 2026 need fresh practice. Predicted papers provide unseen questions that push you to apply knowledge in new contexts, just like the real exam.
They’re especially powerful for mock exams or final revision in spring.
👉 Find 2026 predicted papers here
3. Revision Textbooks and Course Companions
Official textbooks from Pearson, Hodder, and Oxford University Press are written to match exam specifications. They provide in-depth explanations of each topic, practice questions, and end-of-chapter summaries.
Why it works in 2026: With frequent specification tweaks and exam board emphasis shifting, updated textbooks ensure you’re not revising outdated material.
Tip: Don’t just read — actively test yourself using chapter questions.
4. Flashcards (Anki, Quizlet, or Handmade)
Flashcards are perfect for drilling key terms, theories, and case studies. Apps like Anki use spaced repetition algorithmsto bring up cards just before you’re about to forget them.
Why it works in 2026: With exams demanding fast recall under pressure, flashcards ensure definitions and key theories are at your fingertips.
Tip: Write your own flashcards rather than just using pre-made sets — making them helps you learn.
5. YouTube Revision Channels
YouTube is packed with free revision help, from quick explainers to full essay walk-throughs. Many channels are run by teachers and examiners who break down tricky concepts.
Why it works in 2026: Visual, bite-sized content is easier to digest when you’re tired of textbooks. Plus, new videos often include the latest examiner insights.
6. Study Apps and Timetable Planners
Apps like Adapt, Notion, and Forest keep you organised and motivated. They allow you to create structured revision timetables, set daily goals, and track your progress.
Why it works in 2026: A-Level content is vast — poor organisation means wasted time. A good planner helps spread revision evenly across months, avoiding last-minute cramming.
Tip: Build in rest days — consistency beats burnout.
7. Revision Websites and Online Notes
Websites like Physics & Maths Tutor, Save My Exams, and Seneca Learning offer concise notes, worksheets, and online quizzes.
Why it works in 2026: These sites are constantly updated with new resources. Many also offer topic-by-topic quizzes, making them great for identifying weak spots.
Tip: Use these for quick revision, but don’t rely on them alone — combine with deeper resources like textbooks and predicted papers.
8. Mind Maps and Visual Aids
Mind maps, diagrams, and flowcharts help students see the “bigger picture” of their subjects. Tools like Miro or even pen-and-paper sketches can transform revision notes into visual summaries.
Why it works in 2026: A-Level exams often require linking topics across themes. Mind maps make these connections clear, helping with synoptic questions.
Tip: Redraw your mind maps from memory to check recall.
9. Group Revision & Study Communities
Revising with friends or joining online groups like The Student Room, Reddit (e.g. r/6thForm, r/Alevel), or subject-specific Discord servers helps you test your understanding.
Why it works in 2026: Explaining concepts to others reinforces your own knowledge. You also gain new perspectives and study tips from peers.
Tip: Use groups for accountability, not distraction — set specific goals for each session.
10. Teacher Feedback and Marked Work
One of the most underrated revision tools is feedback from your own teachers. Having essays, exam questions, or data responses marked by someone who knows the exam board is invaluable.
Why it works in 2026: Teachers often have insight into exam trends and know exactly where students lose marks. Their personalised feedback is something no app or website can replace.
Tip: Don’t just look at the mark — act on the feedback and re-write improved answers.
How to Combine These Resources for Maximum Effect
The strongest revision strategies use a blend of these resources:
- Use past papers to master exam technique.
- Use predicted papers for fresh practice in mocks and final prep.
- Use apps, flashcards, and mind maps to organise knowledge and recall.
- Use teacher feedback and peer groups to refine your skills.
This combination means you’ll be confident in both knowledge and technique by exam day.
FAQs About A-Level Revision Resources 2026
Q: What’s the single best revision resource?
A: There isn’t one. Past papers are essential, but predicted papers add realism, and apps keep you organised. Use them together.
Q: When should I start using predicted papers?
A: They’re best in mocks (Jan/Feb) and again in the final run-up (April/May). Use past papers earlier to build exam technique.
Q: Are free resources enough, or do I need paid ones?
A: Free resources (websites, YouTube, forums) are excellent for knowledge. Paid resources (like predicted papers or premium apps) are worth it for authentic exam practice.
Q: How many past papers should I do?
A: Aim for at least 3–5 per paper across the course. Alternate with predicted papers to avoid over-familiarity.
Final Thoughts
Revision for A-Levels in 2026 doesn’t need to be overwhelming. The key is choosing the right mix of resources that help you practise, organise, and build exam confidence.
Past papers show you what examiners have asked before. Predicted papers give you unseen practice for what they might ask next. Apps, flashcards, and feedback help you refine your knowledge and technique.
By using the top 10 resources in this guide, you’ll be setting yourself up for success when exam season arrives.