Relax. It’s just an exam

With board exams barely a fortnight away, and parental expectations at their apex, students can be a mass of nerves.

With board exams barely a fortnight away, and parental expectations at their apex, students can be a mass of nerves. HT asked experts ways beat the stress.

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n Revision is the way to go. “I would advise students to consolidate all they have learnt in the last few months,” says Usha Ram, Principal, Laxman Public School, Hauz Khas Enlave, Delhi. “I would also advise them against last minute learning: introduction to new topics at this stage can be confusing.”

nAttempt sample papers within the stipulated three hours. “Sample papers include important questions and give students an idea of what to expect from the final question paper,” Ram says.

nTime yourself. Students often miss out on precious marks as they are unable to complete the examination. “A time slot of three hours, between 10:30 am and 1:30 pm will help the child get accustomed to writing the exam,” says Geetanjali Kumar, counsellor with the Central Board for Secondary Education (CBSE).

nFeed the brain. Meals should be light and nutritious. “Eating small meals at regular intervals helps ward off laziness. Avoid junk food and drink lots of liquids. Light exercise for 30 minutes and eight hours of sleep are important,” says Kumar.

nFinally, laugh. During exams, the house becomes a silent zone, which can be disturbing for the child. A normal environment is essential. Says Kumar, “The child should not feel exams are scary. Laugh, crack jokes and relax. Be normal.”