Number of hours isn’t important, staying focused is, recommends Apeejay Noida class 10 topper

Students of class 10 of Apeejay School, Noida once again gave a wondrous performance at the CBSE AISSE class 10 Board examination for the session 2020-21.

Out of 324 students who appeared for the exam, an overwhelming 151 have secured 90% and above in aggregate.

Mekhla Dhar topped the school with 99.4% marks.  She scored a perfect 100 in French and Social Studies and 99 in English, Mathematics and Science.

“We all had a small get-together at home after the results were announced,” she said. Asked about her favourite subject, she mentioned that French as a language is something that fascinates her.

Sharing her study technique, Dhar said, “NCERT is everything. Each and every line written in the book is very important. Go through everything. Practice a lot of sample papers. In my case, I solved 10 years of papers. Time to time revision will make your learning strong.”

“Note making is the key for you.  Stick to NCERT and take up reference books if needed. Stay focused during the time you are dedicating for self-study,” she added.

Aspiring to be a cardiac surgeon, Debotreo Mitra is the second topper of his school. He scored 99.2% by getting a perfect score of 100 in four subjects—Science, Mathematics, German and Social Studies. He got 96 marks in English.   

Asked about his mantra of scoring 100/100, Mitra says, “The most important thing has been my hard work, dedication and focused studies. The guidance by my teachers and parents also helped me remain consistent in my preparation.”

Sharing his study technique, Mitra elaborates, “Read NCERT many times and be thorough with it. Follow your teachers, as they will provide you the best guidance.  Before giving any exam, it is better to practice from sample papers. I have solved 30-40 sample papers of each subject.”

Mitra is currently preparing for his medical examination. He didn’t have to look far for inspiration as there are a number of renowned doctors in his family. “My grandfather’s elder brother was a great surgeon. He performed the first heart surgery in Kolkata. I too am interested in this subject. Also, the heart is the most important part of the body and I want to save lives and bring smiles to faces,” he said.

Both Veda Nagpal and Prapti Jain scored 99% marks in the board examination. Veda Nagpal scored 100 marks in Mathematics, Social Studies, Science and Sanskrit. She got 95 in English. Prapti scored 100 in Science and Social Science, 99 in mathematics and 98 apiece in French and English.

It was challenging for Veda Nagpal to study in November last year as her mother was infected with Covid-19. Her father and brother took care of household chores and let Veda focus on her studies. She said, “If you attend your classes regularly and be serious, scoring 100 is not difficult. Teachers at Apeejay are well-experienced. You need to build a bond with them so you can clear your doubts anytime. You don’t need coaching if you are alert in school.”

“After school, I used to revise whatever was being taught in the class. Then I read NCERT books, solved past papers, worksheets and sample papers,” she added.

Nagpal lost her mentor and grandfather Group Captain (retired) OP Khurana, owing to Covid-19. He used to teach her physics and guide her in other subjects. In a choked voice, she said, “I wish he were alive. He supported me throughout. Now when I’ve scored good marks, he isn’t there with me. My parents’ appreciation and mom’s good food kept me going, she added.

Talking about her success mantra, Jain said, “Treat NCERT books like your Bible. Whatever tips are given by the teachers, make sure to follow them. Manage your time. I never used to keep count of the number of hours I studied. Rather, set a target and achieve it.”

Apart from studies, it is important to refresh your mind daily, avers Jain. “I am trained in Indian classical music. I have been learning music for the last five years and practised every day for an hour,” she said.
Jain believes in staying connected with her friends and never envying her fellow students. “One must have healthy competition,” she feels.

“I congratulate dear students for their patience and outstanding results. Along with them, the teachers and the parents deserve a huge applause for their support during trying times. All these children should now go forth and embrace their future journey of life.”

-AK Sharma, Principal