Revision is a common word in English with important meanings in both academic and writing contexts.
Definition
In British English, revision typically refers to the act of reviewing and studying material in preparation for an exam. In American English, this is often called “studying” or “review.”
In writing and editing, revision means making changes to improve clarity, structure, grammar, or style—essentially improving a draft.
Examples
- I spent the weekend doing revision for my history test. (UK)
- The teacher asked us to submit a revised version of our essay after peer feedback.
- Good writers understand that revision is a key part of the writing process.
Synonyms
Depending on context:
- Review, study, reread (for exam prep)
- Edit, rewrite, amend, refine (for writing)
Tips for Effective Revision
- Break your material into manageable sections.
- Use flashcards or summary notes.
- Practice past papers or sample questions.
- For writing: read your work aloud during revision to catch awkward phrasing.