How to get an A or A* grade in A-level History

If you’re struggling to get an A or A* in A-level History, you’re not alone. Whether you’re in the final stretch or just figuring out how to start your revision, knowing how to revise effectively for A-level History can make a huge difference.

We’ll walk you through exactly what works, from breaking down exam formats and tackling source analysis, to using proven revision methods that help you stay focused. 

And if you’re aiming for that top grade, expert support can make all the difference. Our A-level History tutors offer personalised lessons to get you there. With only 5.7% of students securing an A* in History in 2024 (FTT Education Lab), having the right guidance matters.

Ready to excel in A-level History exams? Let’s get started.

What Makes A-Level History So Challenging?

The Breadth and Depth of the A-Level Syllabus

A-level History (United Kingdom) is demanding because you’re expected to master both breadth and depth of content. You’ll need to develop an understanding of historical events across different periods while critically engaging with primary and secondary sources. The A level History syllabus isn’t just a continuation of the GCSE History specification; it introduces more complex concepts, critical thinking tasks, and independent research. You’ll have to study history in a whole new way to pass your a-level exams.

Beyond Memorising Dates

Doing well in the History exam takes more than just a strong memory. In A-Level History, success comes from applying knowledge, using clear methodology to evaluate sources, and writing sharp, focused essays under time pressure.  Your ability to demonstrate a deeper understanding of historical interpretations and to analyse source material will often be what separates a B from an A*.

How Do Exam Boards Like AQA and Edexcel Differ?

Understanding the Structure

Different exam boards offer varied assessment formats, meaning your revision strategy should be tailored to your specific board. We’ve laid out the information below:

Why It Matters

Exam boards such as AQA often give more weight to source questions, while Edexcel leans towards thematic depth. Familiarising yourself with the types of questions and exam format is essential for effective revision. Among different exam boards are varying expectations for how students should analyse sources, structure essays, and demonstrate understanding of historical periods and events.

Not sure what your exam board’s really looking for? Our A-level History tutors do. From AQA to Edexcel and OCR, they know every exam format, question type, and mark scheme— so you can revise smarter and aim higher.

What’s the Best Way to Start A-Level History Revision?

Organise Based on the Syllabus

Start your A-level history revision by identifying the topics you need to cover. Get a copy of your syllabus (or use online resources) and break it down by theme, time period, and type of question (e.g. essay vs source).

Set a Structured Timetable to Study History

A strong management strategy involves allocating more time to your weakest topics. For example:

Use tools like flashcards and mind maps early in the revision process to build a solid understanding and deep knowledge.

How Can You Effectively Use Past Papers and Exam Questions?

Practice Makes Perfect

Practising past papers trains your brain to approach the A level history exam with confidence. Look at past paper questions to identify patterns and understand examiner expectations. Familiarising yourself with the exam requirements and mark scheme will help you secure an A or A* in A-level History.

How to Use Past Papers

1. Complete full papers under timed conditions.
2. Compare your answers with the mark schemes.
3. Review examiner reports for insights into common mistakes.

This method helps you become familiar with the marking criteria and types of questions you’ll likely face.

Need help with practice questions? Our A-level History tutors can upload past papers directly into our lesson space and work through questions with you in real time.

What Are Source Questions and How Should You Tackle Them?

Types of Source Questions

Source questions require you to analyse primary and secondary sources, often comparing them to your broader knowledge of historical events.

How to Structure a Source Answer

Use this method:

Mentioning both primary and secondary sources in your answer helps you cover all the A and A* criteria: it shows you understand the source, can place it in context, and can support or challenge it with wider knowledge. These are the skills examiners reward with top-band marks.

What Are the Most Effective Revision Methods for A Level History Exams?

Active vs Passive Revision

Passive methods (e.g. re-reading notes) won’t cut it. To engage in effective revision, you need active techniques:

• Mind Maps: Great for connecting historical themes and events.
• Flashcards: Reinforce memory through active recall.
• Essay Planning: Develops your structure and argumentation skills.

Incorporating Exam Questions

Integrate past paper questions into your study sessions. For example, after revising the British Empire, immediately write an essay plan based on a real exam question.

How Can a History Tutor Help You Get an A or A*?

Personalised Support

A history tutor provides one-on-one help tailored to your learning style. Whether you’re struggling with essay writing or analysis of primary sources,  Our A-level history tutors can target those areas directly.  In fact, our expert tutors can go through past exam papers with you, aiding your grasp of the material.

Why It Works

Our A-level History Tutors can:

• Help you hone specific exam techniques
• Clarify difficult topics
• Equip you with A* knowledge and skills
• Mark essays and provide detailed feedback
• Point you in the direction of the right resources
• Offer new perspectives on historical interpretations

If you’re aiming for a top grade, a history tutor can make a real difference. From the very first lesson, they’ll spot where you’re losing marks and help you turn those weak areas into strengths, so you feel more confident, more prepared, and ready to ace your exams.

What Resources for A-Level History Are Actually Worth Using?

Best Online and Offline Resources

To supplement your notes and deepen your understanding of the subject, use a mix of traditional and digital tools.

Using appropriate resources and knowing how to utilise them ensures your revision process is thorough and well-rounded.

How Should You Structure A-Level History Essays?

Essay Writing Essentials

To score well in essays, you need to address the question directly, argue clearly, and back up your claims with evidence.

Paragraph-by-Paragraph Guide

1. Introduction: Define key terms, outline your argument.
2. Body Paragraphs: PEEL structure — Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link.
3. Conclusion: Summarise key arguments and offer a nuanced judgement.

Incorporate both primary and secondary sources to show your understanding and critical thinking and analytical ability. Always refer to the marking criteria set by your exam board.

What Final Exam Strategies Should You Use to Maximise Marks?

Before the Exam

• Revise exam strategies like time management and essay planning.
• Do timed essays for practice.
• Use checklists to track revision progress.

During the Exam

After Mock Exams

Ask your teacher or History Tutor for feedback. This gives you an opportunity to fine-tune your approach and demonstrate a deeper understanding of historical events.

How to Handle A-Level History Coursework

Understanding the Role of Coursework

Many A-level history students underestimate coursework, but it can make a major difference in your final grade. Coursework typically counts for 20% of your final result (depending on the exam board) and gives you the chance to demonstrate your ability to research, analyse, and construct a sustained argument over a longer piece.

This is where your understanding of historical methodology and historiography can shine. You’ll need to use both primary and secondary sources, cite scholarly historians (using resources like JSTOR), and evaluate differing interpretations of historical events. The coursework allows you to demonstrate critical thinking and analytical skills at a deeper level than in timed exams.

Coursework Tips

• Start early. Don’t leave research until the last minute. The more time you allow for finding appropriate resources, the stronger your essay will be.
• Stay focused on the question. Always refer back to the central question or hypothesis. It’s easy to veer off track in a long-form essay.
• Structure is everything. A clear introduction, argument-driven paragraphs, and a concise conclusion are essential.
• Reference properly. Use footnotes and a bibliography. Familiarise yourself with your exam board’s required referencing style.
• Work with an online History tutor. A Spires tutor can help you plan, refine, and polish your coursework — making sure it hits the assessment objectives and stands out for all the right reasons.

How to Analyse Primary and Secondary Sources for A-Level History

What Makes a Source “Good”?

Analysing historical sources (especially under time pressure) requires a clear process. Whether it’s for coursework or A-level history exams, you’ll be expected to judge a source’s origin, purpose, and content, and contextualise it using your own historical knowledge.

When working with primary sources, consider the perspective of the author, the time period, and their potential bias. When working with secondary sources, examine the historian’s argument and how they use evidence.

Source Analysis Table

How to Develop Your Source Evaluation Skill

Practice with source questions and seek feedback from a History teacher or an expert History tutor. Ask yourself:

• How typical is this source?
• What is the purpose behind its creation?
• How does it compare to other accounts of the same event?

What’s the Difference Between GCSE History and A-Level History?

Transitioning from GCSE history to A-level History can be a big leap. At GCSE, you’re often focused on narrative understanding — what happened and when. At A-level, you’re asked to analyse why things happened, evaluate different interpretations, and engage with more complex historical debates.

Major Differences

Many students feel overwhelmed at first. That’s where using revision techniques, history revision guides, and support from an experienced History tutor can ease the transition and build confidence.

How to Use Effective Study Strategies and Time Management

Create a Study Plan That Works

One of the biggest mistakes students make is cramming before the A-level history exam. Instead, try the spaced repetition method, where you review topics at regular intervals over time. Pair this with active recall (e.g. using flashcards) and interleaved revision, where you study multiple topics in a single session to improve retention.

Weekly Study Strategy Example

Top Time Management Tips

• Prioritise weaker areas first.
• Use a timer (Pomodoro technique) to stay focused.
• Mix revision types: essay plans, source analysis, and active recall.
• Build in breaks and time to relax.

What Types of Questions Appear in A-Level History Exams?

Question Types by Exam Board

Understanding the types of questions you’ll face helps you prepare more strategically. You’ll typically see a mix of:

• Source-based questions – where you’re asked to assess reliability or utility.
• Thematic essays – requiring you to evaluate causes, consequences, or significance.
• Period-based comparisons – asking you to compare events or policies across a set period.

Example Questions

Find below types of questions that could appear in your History exam papers.  Whether you’re studying British history or Russian history, make sure you nail the ability to critically evaluate the question.

Common Mistakes Students Make in A-Level History Exams (and How to Avoid Them)

Even high-achieving students can lose marks by making avoidable mistakes. One of the most frequent is failing to answer the question directly. Always ensure your response links back to the question throughout, not just in your conclusion.

Another common issue is spending too much time on one question. The A level history exam often involves multiple essay questions, so pacing is key. If you’ve planned effectively and practised with past papers, you’ll be able to manage your time confidently.

Finally, many students struggle with source questions because they either take the source at face value or ignore the context altogether. To avoid this, always analyse both content and provenance, and relate your evaluation to your wider historical knowledge.

Avoiding these traps can make the difference between a B and an A* — and a good History tutor can help you spot these early and correct them.