How To Avoid These 10 Common Mistakes During Your Exams – News18

Last Updated:March 19, 2025, 07:41 IST

Board Exams 2025: Avoid common board exam mistakes like misreading questions, poor time management, and lack of revision to improve your scores.

Board Exams 2025: With exam season in full swing, students are working tirelessly to perform their best. However, even with thorough preparation, certain mistakes can impact your score. Common pitfalls include misreading instructions, poor time management, and more. Here’s how to avoid these blunders and walk out of the exam hall with confidence.

Misinterpreting the Question

If you don’t read a question carefully, you may misinterpret it and write an answer that doesn’t align with what is being asked. To avoid this, take your time to read each question thoroughly, underline key terms, and ensure you fully understand its requirements before responding.

Time Mismanagement

Getting stuck on a tough question can disrupt your entire exam strategy, causing you to spend more time than necessary and leaving other questions unanswered. To avoid this, set a mental time limit for each question and move on if you’re struggling. You can always return to it later.

Ignoring Keywords

Exam questions often contain keywords like “explain,” “compare,” or “analyse.” These words do more than just instruct; they offer clues about what the examiner expects. Structuring your response around these keywords ensures that you directly address the question, showcasing your understanding and attention to detail.

Overlooking Marks Allocation

Spending too much time on low-mark questions or rushing through high-mark ones can significantly impact your overall score. When reviewing the exam paper, take note of the marks assigned to each question. Prioritise high-value questions and allocate your time accordingly to maximise your score.

Failing to Review Answers

Skipping a final review can lead to missed errors or overlooked details that could have improved your score. Set aside the last five to ten minutes to go through your answers. Check for skipped questions, calculation mistakes, or minor typos that might impact your final marks.

Starting Without a Strategy

Jumping straight into writing without a plan can lead to missed questions, poor time management, and overlooked key points. After reading the instructions, take a few minutes to scan the entire paper. Identify high-mark questions and those you feel most confident about to ensure a balanced and efficient approach.

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Overworking Yourself

While studying hard is essential, burning out on exam day can do more harm than good. Balance your study schedule with proper sleep, nutrition, and short breaks to stay fresh and focused. A well-rested mind performs better than an exhausted one.

Poor Spelling and Grammar

Careless errors in spelling and grammar can cost you valuable marks, even if your answer is otherwise correct. Under exam pressure, it’s easy to make simple mistakes. Instead of rushing, focus on writing clearly and correctly, and take a moment to review your work before submitting it.

Lack of Proper Preparation

Underestimating the time and effort needed for each subject or relying on last-minute cramming can hurt your performance. Plan your study schedule well in advance, ensuring you cover all topics thoroughly and revise regularly.

Skipping Practice Papers

Avoiding past exam papers or mock tests can leave you unprepared for the real exam format. Practising with previous papers helps you understand question patterns, improve time management, and boost confidence before the big day.