By Meenakshi Sharma
The last few weeks before the Grade 12 board examinations are a crucial period that can significantly influence a student’s performance. At this stage, smart planning and focused revision
are more important than learning new topics. A well-organised approach can help students revise effectively while reducing stress and anxiety. Writing English examinations may seem challenging; however, with appropriate preparation and effective strategies, students can optimise their performance.
Understand the exam format: Familiarise yourself with the structure of the question paper, which may include multiple-choice questions, short answers and long answers. Attempt previous years’ board papers and the sample papers shared by your teacher, and ensure that you practise them within the allotted time.
This exercise helps you understand the exam pattern, marking scheme and time management. It also helps identify weak areas that need extra attention. Writing answers within the given time limit builds confidence and improves speed.
Focus on high-weightage topics: Pay special attention to prose and poetry lessons, important themes, character sketches and literary devices.
Special emphasis should be given to writing skills such as articles, letters, reports and notices, as these carry fixed marks and can be scoring.
Textbook revision should be given top priority. Most board examination questions are framed directly from the textbooks. Revise all chapters carefully, underline important points and memorise key quotations. Reading the lessons repeatedly improves comprehension and helps in writing accurate answers. Do not depend on YouTube videos for revision.
Avoid unnecessary distractions and follow a realistic study timetable. Short study sessions with regular breaks are more effective than long hours of continuous study.
At the same time, proper sleep, a balanced diet and light exercise should not be neglected, as good health improves concentration and memory.
You must keep calm by following these routines:
• Take regular breaks
• Exercise and spend time outdoors
• Talk to someone — a friend, sibling, parent or teacher
• Drink some herbal tea or hot chocolate. It is a well-known fact that hot drinks are soothing
• A shower or a bath can help relieve stress
• Get adequate sleep. The importance of a good night’s rest during exam season should not be underestimated
• Make a checklist. Write down everything you need to do and try to tick tasks off one by one. The feeling of being in control of your revision can be reassuring
In conclusion, the final month before the board examinations should be utilised wisely by focusing on important topics, revising textbooks, practising question papers and maintaining a disciplined routine. With consistent effort and a positive mindset, you are sure to achieve excellent results.
Greet the day with resolve and go to bed with peace.
(The author is a PGT English teacher at Shiv Nadar School, Faridabad. The views expressed above are personal and solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of News18.)
