Scoring 94.2% in board exams might seem impressive to many, but I know I could have done better. More importantly, I believe you can surpass my performance if you avoid the mistakes I made during the early stages of my preparation. Here are the four key mistakes that hindered my full potential:
1. Neglecting Practice After Finishing the Math Syllabus
During the summer vacation, I completed my math syllabus at tuition and solved the main NCERT questions along with examples. However, I didn't continue practicing afterwards. I assumed I could revisit the material at school, but unfortunately, our math teacher was transferred and not replaced for several weeks. By the time a new teacher arrived, I had forgotten much of what I had learned. Completing the syllabus early isn’t a problem, but failing to practice is. Even if you haven't finished the syllabus, I recommend practicing consistently for the chapters you have completed to keep your skills sharp.
2. Ignoring Science Practice and Revision
Similarly, in science, we managed to get ahead of the school curriculum by four chapters during the vacation. However, our science teacher was also transferred at the start of the school year. I didn't bother practicing or revising the material, and my complacency was reinforced when I scored 76/80 in the mid-term exams due to a lenient contractual teacher. It wasn't until I scored 59/80 in the first pre-board exam that I realized the gravity of my mistake. Struggling with questions on mirrors and lenses, despite understanding the concepts well, was a wake-up call. I improved my score to 68/80 in the second pre-board and 73/80 in the boards, but regular practice and revision could have pushed it even higher.
3. Delaying the Completion of the Science Syllabus
I didn’t complete the science syllabus on a personal level until January. I had doubts and a blurry understanding of certain topics but was too lazy to address them. Instead of seeking help from my tuition teacher or my dad, I wasted time explaining what I knew to my peers. Prioritizing my own understanding would have been more beneficial. While I encourage you all to help your peers as and when you can, I strongly suggest you to prioritize your own learning agenda first.
4. Skipping Regular Self-Tests
Not testing myself regularly was another major mistake. My friends, who took weekly tests, retained information better than I did and were more aware of their weak topics so they could work better on it.. Regular testing helps identify knowledge gaps and strengthens concept clarity. Without it, you may struggle in exams due to unnoticed weaknesses in your understanding.
Conclusion
In summary, avoid neglecting your doubts and unfinished topics. Be persistent with your teachers until you grasp the concepts clearly. Consistency in revision and practice of previously covered material is crucial. Regular tests will help track your strengths and weaknesses.
These were my primary mistakes leading up to the pre-boards. I'll share more insights around October as you approach that phase. If you have any questions about academics, non-academics, or anything else, feel free to comment below or contact me through my personal number on the homepage. Also, suggest topics for future blogs if you have any in mind that will help you.
Love you all, and remember to work hard, especially when you don't feel like it.
Comments