Exam & Study Techniques for ADHD & Autism | IGCSE & GCSE Success — SENSpecialists

Preparing for IGCSEs and GCSEs can feel overwhelming — especially for students with ADHD or autism. With the right study strategies plus mentoring, guidance and bespoke SEN coaching, students of all abilities can study smarter, manage exam stress, and perform to their potential. Below is a parent‑facing guide that explains the essentials, shows how SENSpecialists helps, and gives practical steps you can use today.

Core study strategies (quick recap)

• Create a realistic, time‑blocked revision timetable: 25–45 minute focused sessions with short breaks.

• Use active recall: self‑quizzing, flashcards (physical or apps like Quizlet/Anki).

• Apply spaced repetition to consolidate memory rather than cramming.

• Practise past papers under timed conditions to build exam technique and pacing.

• Learn command words (explain, evaluate, compare) so answers hit examiner expectations.

• Mix subjects, use visual aids (mind maps/flowcharts), join small group study and take regular breaks (Pomodoro).

• Track progress and celebrate small wins to maintain motivation.

Bespoke SEN learning design — what it is and why it helps

SEN specialists create an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) tailored to your child’s profile. Key elements:

• Assessment of learning needs (working memory, processing speed, dyslexia, ADHD, autism).

• Scaffolding and chunking to reduce cognitive load and make tasks achievable.

• Multi‑sensory and assistive‑tech resources (text‑to‑speech, mind‑mapping, coloured overlays).

• Executive‑function coaching for planning, organising and time management.

• Adapted exam practice: shorter timed drills, step‑by‑step answer planning and targeted feedback.

Why it works: personalised scaffolds remove barriers, strengthen confidence and convert knowledge into demonstrable exam performance.

Mentoring, guidance & coaching — how they add value?

• Regular accountability and motivation through weekly check‑ins and goal reviews.

• Study‑skill coaching: how to revise efficiently, plan answers and practise exam technique.

• Emotional support and anxiety‑management strategies (breathing, routines, graded exposure to timed tests).

• Practical parent guidance so families can support routines without adding pressure.

• Transition planning (exam days, sixth form/college applications).

For students with ADHD and autism, mentors often prioritise executive skills (scheduling, breaking tasks into steps) and sensory/environment adjustments to improve focus and reduce overwhelm.

Why exam technique coaching matters for ADHD, autism and all students?

• Knowing content isn’t the same as demonstrating it under pressure.

• Students with ADHD may need help pacing and prioritising during an exam.

• Students with autism may benefit from explicit strategies for interpreting command words and structuring answers.

• Coaching teaches how to deconstruct questions, plan answers quickly, practise timing and build resilience — directly improving marks.

Practical routines and habits to build (everyone benefits)

• Weekly plan + daily micro‑goals.

• Retrieval practice: 10–15 minutes of self‑quizzing daily.

• One timed past‑paper practice per week in the run‑up to exams.

• Visual schedules, checklists and short task lists for executive‑function support.

• Prioritise sleep, nutrition and short movement breaks — essential for memory consolidation.

Quick checklist for parents and students

• Start with an initial assessment (tutor, SEN specialist or school) if organisation, concentration or exam stress is an issue.

• Create a simple, realistic weekly timetable with short, focused study blocks.

• Book weekly mentoring/coaching for accountability and technique work.

• Use assistive tools when helpful (speech‑to‑text, flashcard apps).

• Schedule one timed past paper per week, review errors and create targeted mini‑lessons on weak topics.

How SENSpecialists supports families?

• Diagnostic learning profiles and bespoke ILP creation.

• One‑to‑one tutoring adapted for ADHD and autistic learners.

• Exam‑technique coaching for IGCSE and GCSE subjects.

• Mentoring and weekly progress guidance to keep momentum.

• Parent workshops and practical resources to build effective home routines.

Ready to get started?

If you’d like practical help, SENSpecialists can:

• Create a personalised one‑week revision timetable for your child,

• Draft a parent handout on running productive past‑paper review sessions, or

• Begin weekly mentoring and coaching tailored to ADHD and autism.

Book an assessment or explore our services and help your child approach IGCSEs and GCSEs with confidence.

Request a Tutor or Book a Free Learning Assessment to discuss your child’s needs.