Mukhtar Ahmad Qureshi
Board examinations are a vital milestone in a student’s life. While gearing up for such exams, being able to utilize time effectively holds the key. We usually complain of huge syllabi, escalating pressure, and fear of low performance. Yet, if we change our pattern from rote learning to competency based education as suggested by NEP 2020 and NCF 2023, then we can prepare for exams without fear and in a well conceived manner.
The 21st century competencies of critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, and time management are the keys to success in board exams. In this, I will take you through successful time management techniques, the teacher’s, parent’s, and student’s role, and how to shun stress and peer pressure while maintaining competency based learning.
Understanding the nature of examinations
Exams are not only about testing memory but also about testing understanding, application, and problem solving. Most students find exams tricky, but the truth is that exams are designed to test our comprehension of concepts rather than our capacity to memorize information.
By emphasizing competency based education, we build the skills to solve real life problems and analytical questions rather than just memorizing textbook definitions. So, while getting ready for your board exams, change your thinking from “How much can I memorize?” to “How well do I apply and comprehend these concepts?”
Time management techniques for students
1. Fix clear goals and prioritize topics
Divide the syllabus into manageable pieces.
Organize topics according to difficulty level begin with tough ones when your brain is new.
Develop short term and long-term goals, with continuous improvement.
2. Practice the 50-10 rule
Study for 50 minutes and rest for 10 minutes to refresh your brain.
Short duration focused study sessions assist in improved retention and less burnout.
3. Practice active learning techniques
Rather than passive reading, interact with the material use mind maps, flowcharts, and mnemonics.
Practice concept based and application based questions rather than cramming.
4. Time yourself while practicing
Solve previous years’ question papers within a time limit to improve speed and accuracy.
Use a timer to simulate real exam conditions, helping you manage time better on the actual day.
5. Allocate time for revision
Keep the last 10–15 days exclusively for revision.
Summarize key points in bullet form for quick recall.
6. Avoid last minute cramming
Cramming for an exam causes anxiety and confusion.
Instead, study in an organized way, maintaining conceptual clarity.
Resisting peer pressure
Numerous students are pressured by the study habits of their peers, high expectations, and competitive settings. Board exams, however, need to be about your own development and not comparison.
Do not blindly follow others
Just because a friend spends 10 hours a day studying does not mean you must do the same. Quality is more important than quantity.
Trust your study approach
If competency based learning suits you, stick to it.
Avoid unnecessary discussions
Steer clear of last minute discussions that can create panic.
Role of teachers, parents, and students
1. Role of teachers, encouraging conceptual learning
Teachers have a significant role in instilling confidence among students prior to exams.
Promote application based learning instead of rote learning.
Organize interactive classes for doubt clarification.
Educate time management techniques and strategies to attempt exams effectively.
Create a positive classroom environment to minimize exam fear.
2. Parent’s role, expect less, support more
Being parents, it is only natural to expect good results, but excessive expectations can place undue pressure on children.
Promote effort rather than perfection. Appreciate persistent work effort and not just marks.
Develop a peaceful home atmosphere. Do not compare a child with others.
Foster a healthy lifestyle adequate sleep, diet, and physical activity are as critical as studying.
Be around to offer emotional support. On occasion, all that a child might need is a “You are doing great” to give them confidence.
3. Role of students: Taking ownership of learning
Take charge of your preparation. No one else will study for you.
Prioritize learning, not merely marks proficiency competency based education will benefit you in the long term.
Balance your physical and mental well being with studies.
Encouragement from examination staff
Examination staff have a major role during exams to ensure a smooth and stress free process for students. Here’s how they can encourage students:
1. Creating a positive atmosphere
Welcome students with a smile and reassurance when they go into the exam hall.
Avoid stern or threatening behavior that might enhance nervousness.
2. Giving clear instructions
Make sure students know the format of the question paper before they start writing.
Clear up any doubts peacefully before the examination begins.
3. Managing exam hall stress
Ask students to remain calm and breathe deeply if they appear anxious.
Keep an eye on time and provide soft reminders regarding remaining time.
4. Ensuring fair conduct
Keep discipline and also provide encouragement to those getting overwhelmed.
Board exams are an important but possible phase of the life of the students. Managing time well, keeping competency based learning in the centre, and not getting overwhelmed, students are able to deliver their best without undue stress.
As we enter this critical phase, let us remain dedicated to learning and not rote memorization, encourage one another, and go into exams with confidence and clarity. Have faith in yourself, you can succeed.
(The author hails from Boniyar, Baramulla and can be reached at [email protected])
