Introduction
Having your hardest IB exams scheduled back-to-back is one of the most intimidating situations students face.
The problem isn’t intelligence or ability.
It’s how revision is timed.
Students who struggle usually:
- Over-revise one subject
- Neglect the other
- Burn out before the second exam
This article explains how to revise smartly when your toughest exams are consecutive.
The Biggest Mistake Students Make
The most common mistake is trying to prioritise only one subject.
This leads to:
- Confidence in the first exam
- Panic in the second
- Uneven performance
Both exams need to be prepared before the exam period begins.
The Correct Way to Think About Consecutive Hard Exams
You are not revising for two separate events.
You are preparing for:
- A high-fatigue block
- Sustained performance
- Consistency, not peaks
This requires a different revision mindset.
How to Revise Before Exams Begin
Strong preparation happens early.
Students should:
- Finish heavy content revision for both subjects well in advance
- Alternate revision between the two subjects
- Practise switching focus
- Identify overlap in skills (e.g. problem-solving, writing)
The goal is familiarity, not last-minute mastery.
How to Revise in the Final Days
Final revision should be:
- Light
- Targeted
- Confidence-focused
Prioritise:
- Key topics
- Common mistakes
- Exam technique
Avoid full practice papers at this stage.
How to Manage the Gap Between the Exams
Between consecutive exams:
- Do minimal review only
- Do not try to “catch up”
- Protect sleep
- Keep routines stable
Recovery is part of revision.
How High-Scoring Students Stay Consistent
Strong students:
- Accept that the second exam may feel harder
- Stick to structure
- Focus on process over emotion
- Trust preparation
Feeling tired does not mean performing poorly.
Using the RevisionDojo Study Planner
The RevisionDojo Study Planner helps students manage consecutive hard exams by:
- Balancing revision early
- Preventing over-prioritisation
- Highlighting fatigue risks
- Protecting energy before exams
Plan strategically here:
https://www.revisiondojo.com/study-planner
RevisionDojo Call to Action
Consecutive hard exams don’t require superhuman effort — they require smart planning.
Use the RevisionDojo Study Planner to:
- Prepare early
- Avoid burnout
- Perform consistently
Start planning here:
https://www.revisiondojo.com/study-planner
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I revise one subject more than the other?
No. Both exams need to be prepared early to avoid imbalance.
Is it normal to feel worse in the second exam?
Yes. Fatigue affects perception more than performance.
Should I do a practice paper between exams?
No. Light review is more effective than heavy practice.
Can planning really offset fatigue?
Yes. Early, structured revision significantly reduces the impact of consecutive exams.
