CBSE Class 12 Board Exam Tips: ‘Answer your questions in points’

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has slated the Business Studies exam for March 27, 2024. Students must have already completed their initial round of prep for the exam. However, studying the chapters needs to be complemented by solving several question papers to ensure one is exam-ready.

To make it easier for students, Sonia Kapoor, PGT-Business Studies at Apeejay School, Noida, shared some important tips not just for what to do a day before the exam but also how to attempt the question paper on the final day of the exam.

“Many of the students don’t know how to use their time most effectively. And often students prepare for exams using inefficient strategies. If they don’t have a strategy in place, it will make it difficult for students to complete their paper on time, let alone leave time for proper revision which is essential,” Kapoor said.

Revision is the key to a deeper understanding of a concept and facilitates retention. So remember to revise previous topics (learnt) before students start studying a new chapter. “Students should follow SMART learning – Smart Notes; Methodical Revision; Active Learning; Rest and finally follow a Time management strategy,” Kapoor said and shared five things that students must keep in mind a day before appearing for the exam.

·         Revise not only the content but also apply the knowledge by practicing questions.

·         Attempting sample papers gives you an idea of:

1.      The topics that require more attention.

2.       It helps students manage time better.

·         Making flowcharts, mind maps, and or revision sheets (compressing your learning into one page) will help students in quick revision.

A day before the exam can be stressful. So students should have their notes that are easily accessible. Last minute cramming is not going to help and nor will learning a topic. It is better if the students thoroughly revise what they have already done,” Kapoor said.

·         Practice a lot of MCQs as they can make or break your chances of getting a centum.

“To score a centum in this subject, students must read every word of the NCERT. This will help them become well-versed with every chapter and topic making it easy for them to answer MCQs,” Kapoor advised.

·         Eat healthy, stay hydrated, do some light exercise, and take breaks.

The educator also said that Business Studies is all about presentation and expression. “Hence, on the day of the exam, every student must have a plan in place on how he/she will approach the question paper,” Kapoor said and shared a few tips.

1.      Use the reading time (15 minutes) judiciously to understand the nature of the questions.

2.      Comprehension (understanding) of the question takes away half the problem that the question poses.

3.      Strategise how you will move ahead while reading the question paper.

4.      Attempt the paper sequentially if possible, attempt all parts of a question at one place.

5.      Answer your questions in points. Paragraphs are not appealing and takes a lot of time for the evaluator to find your answer.

6.      If you must write in para, underline the key points. Highlight keywords and phrases to catch the attention of the evaluator.

7.      In case of a case-based question, read the question first and then the case so that you can focus on what is asked.

8.      Keep at least 10 minutes for revision of your answers.

9.      Write in a neat and legible hand. Avoid too many corrections and overwriting.

10.  Always stick to the word limit that has been given on the question paper.