By Callum 
Preparing for IB Maths can be challenging, but the right revision plan helps students understand the curriculum better, improve learning habits, and build confidence for the final exams. With support from experienced teachers and trusted resources, including experts in maths tutors, you can organise your studying in a clear, manageable way. This guide shows how to structure your revision step by step.
Start by Understanding Your Current Level
Before planning your study schedule, you need a realistic picture of your current level. This helps you focus on the topics that truly need attention.
Review past tests and mock exams
Look carefully at your previous school assessments. They reveal what you understand well and what still needs work. Check where you lost marks, whether the mistakes repeat, and how you perform under exam timing. This simple review forms the foundation of your revision plan.
Identify weak areas in the IB Maths syllabus
The IB syllabus is broad, so it’s essential to highlight your weak spots early. These may include calculus, functions, trigonometry, statistics or modelling. Understanding where you struggle allows you to prioritise those areas and build stronger overall knowledge.
Questions to ask yourself when identifying weaknesses:
- Which topics lower my grades the most?
- Do I understand the concepts, or just try to memorise steps?
- Where does my teacher consistently give feedback for improvement?
Build a Practical Weekly Revision Schedule
A successful revision plan is regular, realistic and balanced with school work.
Assign topics to focused study sessions
Divide your week into short, concentrated sessions. Instead of long hours of studying, focus on one topic at a time. Alternate between challenging topics and areas you already understand to maintain motivation and avoid stress.
Include past paper practice and timed tasks
Past papers show what IB exam questions look like and help you learn what examiners expect. Include timed practice in your week to improve your speed and accuracy. Try to complete a small set of Paper 1 or Paper 2 questions at least once a week.
A sample weekly revision structure:
- Two sessions for topic review and exercises
- One session for past paper practice
- One longer weekend session for mixed problems and exam-style questions
Track Your Progress and Improve
A revision plan is not static. You need to track your progress to make it effective.
Keep an error log
An error log is a simple but powerful learning tool. Write down the types of mistakes you make, the correct method and what you need to remember next time. This makes it easier to avoid repeating errors and helps you understand patterns in your learning.
Adjust the plan based on results
If a topic still feels difficult after several sessions, increase the time you spend on it. If a topic becomes easier, move on to more advanced problems. Your plan should adapt as you grow more confident.
Take Advantage of Helpful Resources
Your revision becomes more effective when you use the right materials and support.
IB-specific books, flashcards and digital tools
Different students learn in different ways. Some prefer textbooks, others like flashcards or visual explanations. Choose resources that help you understand concepts clearly and revise regularly.
Support from experienced IB Maths tutors
A skilled tutor can explain complex topics quickly, provide structured revision strategies and help you improve your exam technique. This personalised guidance is especially useful when preparing for mock exams or aiming for top grades.
Useful revision tools to include in your plan:
- IB Maths study guides and formula sheets
- Digital graphing and problem solving apps
- Flashcards for rules, formulas and definitions
Maintain Balance and Reduce Stress
Good revision is not only about studying. It is also about staying healthy, organised and focused. Use time management techniques, take short breaks and keep a positive mindset towards your exams. Proper rest improves concentration and helps you perform better on exam day.
Conclusion
A powerful revision plan for IB Maths combines understanding your current level, building a realistic schedule, tracking progress and using the right resources. With consistent effort and clear structure, students can strengthen their understanding, build confidence and improve exam results. Support from tutors, teachers and high quality learning tools makes the process smoother and more effective.