Why Past Papers Are the Most Effective Revision Tool for GCSE, IGCSE & A Level 2026 Exams
As students prepare for the May/June 2026 examination series, one revision method consistently stands out: past papers. Research and teacher experience show that practising real exam questions is the most efficient way to prepare for high-stakes exams.
1. Understand Real Question Styles
Past papers show how the exam board phrases questions, the type of diagrams used, and how command verbs (evaluate, describe, analyse) appear.
2. Identify Strengths & Weaknesses
Students quickly learn which topics need more revision by attempting papers under real exam conditions.
3. Improve Time Management
Timed practice helps students avoid rushing Section B or leaving questions unanswered.
4. Learn Marking Patterns
Mark schemes reveal:
Key points examiners expect
How many marks each step earns
The level of detail required
5. Build Exam Confidence
When students repeatedly practise old papers, the exam feels familiar. This reduces stress and increases performance.
MyPastPapers.co.uk provides:
AQA
Edexcel
OCR
WJEC
CIE (Cambridge)
past papers covering multiple years, making exam preparation easier than ever.