Board exams can feel overwhelming. And it is true, whether you are in class 10 or you are about to take a board exam in 12th, now there is the pressure to fare well. The good news here, though, is that with the right mindset and smart preparation, you can not only pass, but you can actually perform excellently in your exams. This guide will feature useful study tips which have helped many students to make it.
We need to understand why board exams are so important before we delve into the tips for studying. Your 10th and 12th board results open good colleges and career opportunities. They make a grand stride in your educational career. However, keep in mind that not all of them are like this. They can be easily dealt with with proper preparation and a proper attitude.
Class 10 is your first significant board exam experience. Here's how to prepare effectively:
Don't wait for the last two months to begin your preparation. Start at least 4-5 months before your exams. Studying for 3-4 hours daily is better than cramming for 12 hours a day in the final weeks.
Get a clear picture of what you need to study. Make a list of all chapters in each subject. Mark the ones you find difficult and need more time on. This helps you plan better.
Reading between the lines is great, but when you write it yourself in your own words, then you will be reminded. You should use words that make sense to you. Include diagrams, flowcharts and bullet points to simplify revision.
Solving old question papers shows you the exam pattern. You'll understand which topics appear frequently and the types of questions that are asked. Try to solve at least 5-7 previous year papers for each subject.
Class 12 boards carry more weight as they affect your college admissions. Here's how to prepare:
Different subjects need different approaches. Math and science require daily practice of problems. For subjects like history and economics, focus on understanding the concepts and writing clear, concise answers.
Create a realistic timetable. Give more hours to subjects you find challenging. Don't forget to include breaks. Your brain needs rest to absorb information properly.
Friends can be helpful to study with, provided that it is done in the right way. Talk about challenging subjects, challenge other students and exchange notes. Yet ensure that such sessions do not become attempts to deviate into studies.
NCERT textbooks are your best friends for boards. Most questions come directly from these books. Read them thoroughly and solve all exercises provided at the end of each chapter.
These tips work for both class 10 and 12 students:
Focus 80% of your time on important topics that carry more marks. The remaining 20% can go to smaller topics. Check your exam pattern to identify high-weightage chapters.
Instead of just reading, test yourself regularly. Close your book and try to write down what you remember. This strengthens your memory far better than passive reading.
Create acronyms, rhymes, or stories to remember difficult information. For example, "VIBGYOR" helps remember rainbow colours. Make your own memory tricks for formulas and dates.
Your body and mind need to be in good shape. Sleep for 7-8 hours daily. Eat nutritious food. Take short breaks every 45-50 minutes of study. Physical exercise, even a 15-minute walk, refreshes your brain.
In the last month before exams, focus on revising what you've already studied. Reviewing your notes multiple times is more effective than trying to cover new topics.
Want to know what toppers do differently? Here are three powerful techniques:
This is non-complicated and yet effective. Choose any subject matter and attempt to explain it to someone who is not conversant with the subject matter, such as your younger sibling or friend. When you can explain it in simple terms, then you are fully aware. This way identifies loopholes in your knowledge.
Every time you learn something, it's a good idea to review it within two minutes. Then check again in one hour, then in one day and then in one week. It is this spacing effect that causes information to stick in your long-term memory.
Many students study well but score less because they don't write answers correctly. Practise writing complete answers with proper structure – introduction, main points, and conclusion. Time yourself while writing to build speed.
Your preparation is complete; now it's time for the actual exam. Here's how to perform your best:
Spend the first 5 minutes reading all the questions. This helps your brain begin to work on all topics. Mark questions that you find easy and answer them first.
Divide your time based on marks. If a question is worth five marks, don't spend 30 minutes on it. Stick to your time limit and move on.
Read questions twice. Understand exactly what they're asking. Many students lose marks by writing everything they know about a topic instead of answering the specific question that was asked.
Write neatly. Use paragraphs. Underline important points. Leave proper margins. Teachers appreciate well-presented answers, and this can positively impact your marks.
If you're stuck on a question, skip it and move ahead. Come back to it later. Panicking wastes time and affects your performance on other questions.
If you complete ahead of schedule, use the time to review. Look at silly errors in calculations. Ensure that you have attempted all questions. Write in any points that you may have missed.
Exam preparation isn't just about studying. Your mental state plays a huge role:
It is not unusual to experience some pressure, which can help you focus even more. Stress is bad, but an excess of it becomes detrimental. Practise deep breathing. Be able to discuss with your parents or teachers when you are overwhelmed.
Do not draw parallels between your preparation and that of other people. Each has its own pace and style. Focus on your own progress.
Instead of negative thoughts, such as 'I cannot do this,' you replace them with positive thoughts, like 'I am improving day to day.' It is your attitude that influences results.
Spending hours upon hours studying is not a practical approach. Take 10-15-minute breaks every hour. Listen to music, stretch or relax.
Learn from others' mistakes:
The last day should be only for light revision. Learning new things creates confusion and increases anxiety.
Staying up all night before exams may seem productive, but it actually harms your performance. Your tired brain won't work correctly during the exam.
Eat proper meals, especially breakfast, on exam days. Your brain needs fuel to function.
Social media is a big distraction. It also increases anxiety when you see others claiming they've studied everything. Focus on your own preparation.
Board exams are lonely at times to prepare for. There may be times that you feel doubtful, stressed or confused about what you really want to do. It is at that point that everything depends on the support you have.
An introvert knows what you are passing through. We are a student career placement and mental health service organisation in India. We can connect students in grades 9-12 with highly qualified counsellors who have been part of the Indian education system and are well aware of the various pressures.
Creating a study plan, figuring out the correct profession after your boards, or needing someone to talk to about exam anxiety – our counsellors have got you covered. Our online tutoring is available in the form of one-on-one individual sessions, tailored to your specific preferences. The remarkable thing is that Mentrovert also offer free counselling sessions, as we understand that every student needs support, regardless of their financial situation.
Lucky with your preparation! You've got this!
Q1: How many hours should I study for board exams?
Quality matters more than quantity. Study 6-8 hours daily with full concentration rather than 12 hours with frequent distractions. Include revision time in this schedule.
Q2: Is one month enough to prepare for board exams?
It is not the best place to get good marks, but a one-month period of dedicated study will allow you to pass. As exams are a month or two away, start preparing early (classic preparation and revision) three to four months in advance.
Q3: Which time is best for studying for board exams?
Early morning (5-7 AM) works best for most students, as their minds are fresh and alert. However, find your own productive hours. Some people concentrate better at night—study when you feel most alert.
Q4: How can I stay focused while studying for my board exams?
Maintain a clean and quiet place in which to study. Put your phone away. Learn in about 45-50 minute intervals separated by short periods. Drink plenty of water and ensure you get enough sleep.
Q5: Should I study all subjects equally?
No. Allow more time for subjects you find challenging or that carry more weight in your stream. However, don't completely ignore any subject.
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