How to Achieve an A* in A-Level Biology

A-Level Biology is a content-heavy and conceptually demanding subject. To achieve an A*, students must do more than memorise facts,  they must understand processes in depth, apply their knowledge to unfamiliar scenarios, and write with scientific precision. Success comes from consistent practice, critical thinking, and mastering exam technique alongside strong subject knowledge.

This guide outlines the strategies you need to consistently perform at the top level across all components of the course.

Understand the Specification and Assessment Objectives

Start by carefully reviewing your exam board’s specification. This outlines exactly what you're expected to know and how you're assessed.

Core Assessment Objectives (AQA example):

• AO1: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, processes, techniques and procedures.
• AO2: Apply knowledge and understanding to a range of contexts and novel situations.
• AO3: Analyse, interpret and evaluate scientific information, including data handling and practical work.

Knowing which objective each question tests will help you tailor your responses and revision accordingly.

Master Core Concepts and Processes

Biology requires a deep understanding of interlinked topics. Top students focus on building strong foundations before adding detail.

Key Concepts to Focus On:

• Cell structure and function
• Biological molecules (e.g. proteins, carbohydrates, enzymes)
• DNA, genes and protein synthesis
• Transport systems (plants and animals)
• Immunity and the immune response
• Photosynthesis and respiration
• Homeostasis and feedback mechanisms
• Genetics and populations
• Natural selection and evolution
• Gene technologies and biotechnology

Use the big-picture approach: understand how different processes relate (e.g. how DNA replication links to the cell cycle and mitosis).

Use Active Revision Techniques

Passive revision (reading and highlighting) is rarely effective on its own. A* students revise actively by engaging with material in different ways.

Active Techniques:

• Flashcards: For definitions, processes, and required practicals.
• Mind maps: To connect topics visually.
• Flow diagrams: For step-by-step processes (e.g. the nephron, glycolysis).
• Condensed notes: Summarise topics in bullet points or tables.
• Teaching others: Explaining topics aloud boosts retention.
• Exam questions: The most effective revision is practising the real thing.

Focus especially on processes that require explanation or sequencing, such as protein synthesis, photosynthesis, and the immune response.

Master Required Practicals and Data Analysis (AO3)

Practical skills and data interpretation are heavily tested,  even in written exams.

How to Revise Practicals:

• Know each required practical: method, variables, results, evaluation.
• Understand common techniques (e.g. colorimetry, serial dilution, aseptic technique).
• Practise data analysis: interpreting tables, graphs, and experimental outcomes.
• Learn to identify sources of error and suggest valid improvements.

Use exam-style questions on practicals and ensure you can explain why each step is taken, not just what you did.

Learn to Answer the Question: Exam Technique

Even students with strong knowledge can drop marks by misunderstanding the question. Success depends on precise and purposeful writing.

Key Exam Tips:

• Read the question twice,  underline command words and keywords.
• Use biological terminology accurately and consistently.
• Avoid vague or non-scientific phrasing (e.g. don’t say “it dies”, say “cell lysis occurs due to osmosis”).
• Keep answers concise and focused, no waffle.
• For longer questions, structure your answer logically and support it with examples or evidence.

Common Command Words:

• Describe: Say what happens, no explanation needed.
• Explain: Give reasons, refer to processes or mechanisms.
• Compare/contrast: Identify similarities and differences clearly.
• Evaluate: Weigh up strengths and weaknesses, often with data or experimental design.
• Suggest: Apply knowledge to unfamiliar situations, think creatively but logically.

Apply Your Knowledge (AO2)

Application questions (novel scenarios) are often where A* students distinguish themselves.

Strategies:

• Don’t panic if the context is unfamiliar, the biology is often standard.
• Identify what topic the question relates to.
• Think: what do I know that’s relevant here?
• Use precise language, make every sentence count.
• If data is provided, refer to it explicitly and interpret trends.

Regularly practise these questions and review examiner mark schemes to understand what they’re looking for.

Strengthen Your Maths and Graph Skills

Around 10% of marks in Biology are based on maths skills at GCSE level.

Key Skills:

• Percentages and percentage change
• Standard form and significant figures
• Graph interpretation (especially rates from curves)
• Statistical tests (e.g. Chi-squared, t-tests, Spearman’s rank — depending on board)
• Calculating magnification and using the formula triangle
• Interpreting and drawing standard deviation/error bars

Don’t lose marks for basic calculation errors or poor graph labelling, practise using past paper data questions.

Use Past Papers and Mark Schemes  (All available biology past papers can be found on Revision Science).

Past papers are your most valuable resource. Aim to complete all available papers under timed conditions.

How to Use Them Effectively:

• Start early, don’t wait until exams are near.
• Mark your answers using official mark schemes.
• Keep a mistake log of topics or question types you struggle with.
• Review examiner reports for insight into common pitfalls.
• Redo questions you got wrong after a week to test retention.

Practise both short-answer recall and longer application questions to build versatility.

Manage Your Time and Revision Schedule

A-Level Biology covers a vast syllabus, so organisation is key.

Time Management Tips:

• Create a revision timetable with regular slots for Biology.  
• Break down topics into manageable chunks.
• Alternate between learning content and practising exam skills.
• Leave time to review areas of weakness and revisit them often.

Use the Pomodoro technique or 45–15 minute blocks to stay focused and avoid burnout.

Final Advice from A* Students

• “Make sure you fully understand before memorising. Understanding lasts longer.”
• “Don’t just revise the ‘easy’ topics, prioritise your weaknesses.”
• “Write answers out in full, don’t just plan or make notes.”
• “Read every question carefully. It’s easy to miss what it’s really asking.”
• “Use the mark schemes and examiner reports as a checklist for top marks.”