Effective Study Tips for Winter Board Exams
Preparing for Board Exams Amidst Winter Challenges
New Delhi: The countdown for board examinations has officially begun across the nation. With temperatures dropping in northern India and several other states, students are facing challenges such as lethargy and distractions during morning study sessions. Sitting in one place for extended periods becomes a daunting task in the cold. Therefore, it is essential to adapt study methods. A proper strategy, a warm and comfortable environment, and mental focus can help students excel even in harsh weather conditions.
As concerns about studying in winter rise among students, educators emphasize that this is not a time to panic but to proceed with a well-thought-out plan. Effective studying in cold weather requires both the body and mind to remain active. Short study sessions, appropriate timing, revision techniques, and healthy habits provide a solid foundation for preparation. This article sheds light on these crucial and practical strategies.
Create a Warm and Focus-Friendly Study Space
The first rule for studying in winter is to ensure the environment is conducive. Allow some sunlight into the study room, seal any gaps in windows, and safely use heaters if necessary. Place thick fabric or mats on tables and chairs to prevent cold from reaching the body. Keep the atmosphere fresh with lightly scented incense or a diffuser. A warm and quiet space helps maintain concentration for longer periods and enhances the quality of study.
Adopt the 25-5-25 Study Formula
Long study sessions in the cold can lead to fatigue. Therefore, the most effective method is to study for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and then resume for another 25 minutes. During breaks, drink warm water or do light stretching. After 3-4 slots, take a longer break of 15 minutes. This technique provides energy to combat the cold and recharges the mind. Content studied in shorter sessions tends to be retained longer, making revision easier.
Tackle Difficult Subjects in the Afternoon
In winter, the body tends to be sluggish in the morning, so it’s advisable to study challenging subjects in the afternoon when temperatures are slightly higher. Use the morning for lighter topics, reading notes, revising flashcards, or memorizing formulas. The brain is more active between 12 PM and 4 PM, enhancing comprehension. Properly utilizing this time slot makes board exam preparation balanced and effective while saving time.
Enhance Focus with Warm Beverages and Healthy Snacks
Instead of tea, opt for warm milk, ginger-honey water, or light soup during study sessions. These keep the body warm and reduce lethargy. For snacks, choose peanuts, jaggery, fox nuts, dry fruits, or roasted chickpeas, which boost energy. Avoid heavy fried foods that can induce sleepiness; instead, eat light and nutritious meals. The combination of warm drinks and healthy snacks keeps the mind sharp and maintains study continuity.
Make Revision a Habit, Not Just Study
Revising is more crucial than merely reading. Dedicate 10 minutes each night for micro-revision, where you mentally review the topics studied throughout the day. Set aside one hour each week for a comprehensive revision block. Also, reserve the last 5 minutes of each Pomodoro session for revision. This habit makes studying feel lighter even in winter. Consistent revision strengthens memory and helps recall answers quickly under exam pressure.