Overview
Textbook notes are wide. Mark schemes are what earns marks — learn to [read one like an examiner](/blog/how-to-read-a-cambridge-mark-scheme). Build notes from schemes and you revise exam language.
One-page template per topic
For Cambridge mark Cambridge past papers, topic name + syllabus code + date updated
Header
Must-write phrases (5–8 bullets)
Copied from allow lists in schemes
Never-write / reject (3 bullets)
From reject or examiner report
Worked past-paper Q
One question number you missed — 2-line reminder
Checklist
Command word + common trap
Workflow (30 min per topic)
For Cambridge mark Cambridge past papers, ---
- Open 2 mark schemes on same topic
- Highlight repeated phrases
- Copy into template — no paraphrase on definitions
- Close schemes — test recall next day
Pair with past papers
For Cambridge mark Cambridge past papers, after sitting a question, update the one-page note with your personal miss.
Digital option
For Cambridge mark Cambridge past papers, notion/Obsidian linked to paper codes — still one page per topic max.