Board exams are going on. Monica Malhotra Kandhari shares last minute tips which can help students to remain stress-free and well-prepared

Board exam is the first formally organised examination taken by students.It sets the tone for a student's academic future as board results define the career path. Meritorious result in the board exam is commendable and boosts one’s confidence. Hence, it creates a lot of pressure on students to perform well and make their parents, teachers, friends and well-wishers proud.

With careful planning and disciplined execution, students can prepare efficiently for their exams and achieve desirable outcomes. Here are some practical tips which can help students remain stress-free and prepare more efficiently for the upcoming board exam.

• Prepare an agenda and time table: Studying too much may at times be counter-productive to the task at hand, so it is healthy to pay attention to what you are studying rather than just memorising it for hours. It helps to first analyse and then chart out a How To Study plan.
• You will also have to make a timetable in order to maintain a balance between study and rest, to avoid a burn out.
• Identify the important sections and your areas of weakness.
• Be realistic about how much you can achieve in a day or week or a study session.
• Prepare short notes: One of the most efficient ways to save time and energy is to memorise by using short notes, charts and diagrams. That way, when there isn’t enough time to revise in a detailed manner your memory can be refreshed by consulting the easy-to-understand short notes.
• Solve previous years’ question papers: Solving previous years’ question papers can give you an understanding of what to expect, and if you attempt them analytically, you will be able to find a way that helps you give your best in the exams. You get to know the structure and level of difficulty of the question papers. You should also look at the model test paper and the marking scheme issued by the board to get an idea of what to expect in the exam. You will not feel stressed as there will be no fear for the examination. Consequently, your mind will stay calm and focussed, which is conducive for performing well in the exams.
• Group study can help: Studying in a group helps in resolving doubts or questions. However, it is important to keep in mind that group study hours should be used for studying only.
• Study regularly: Consistency is essential in studies.That way one can be exam ready without relying too much on last-minute cramming. Studying on a regular basis can help you complete the course early,leaving you with ample time for revision.
• Take care of your mind and body: You need a sound body and mind to perform to the best of your abilities in the examinations. Stress is likely to affect your performance adversely. So staying healthy and calm is as important as it is to concentrate on studies.

Board exams are arguably one of the most stressful times in a student's life. It is important to accept the fact that stress is an unavoidable part of life, and getting overwhelmed does not help in any way. So the best way to approach the exams is by assessing one’s strengths and weaknesses and making a realistic plan and following it sincerely.

The writer is MD, MBD Group