Use a work-reward system to curb smartphone usage: CBSE class 12 Term 1 toppers of Apeejay Saket

Jatin Gupta, the school topper from Commerce stream with 98.4% marks religiously followed a study schedule. “I started my preparation in April 2021. I created a study schedule and adhered to it religiously. On weekdays, my task was to complete the desired syllabus and do the revision on weekends. Having a schedule will help you split your studying into bits and allow you to earmark what you need to do per day. I also took the active help of my teachers when faced with doubts.”

Jatin further said he didn’t worry about the results and stayed away from gadgets. “The effort should be to gain as much knowledge and not worry too much about the outcome or results, just focus on what you need to do. Also, except WhatsApp, I don’t use any other social media app. I used to keep my gadgets away after the completion of online classes. Another strategy for curbing excessive phone usage and managing one’s time is using a work-reward system. For example, I would commit to studying without distractions for a defined period and then reward myself with 5-10 minutes of social media use.”

He added, “There is no shortcut to success and success comes gradually with persistent hard work, it can’t be gained in a day. Having a hobby to refresh yourself is also important. I used to meditate to relieve my stress and anxiety.” 

Runjhun Yadav, also from the Commerce stream, came second with 96.8% marks. “I attended all the classes, listened carefully to the teachers, made notes and did a lot of revision.”

Runjhun said she had to work hard to avoid distraction from gadgets. “In this digital age, being cocooned at home during the current pandemic has only augmented our addiction to technology. I too, like many others, struggled to manage my screen time. I had to establish clear rules and set reasonable limits for the use of digital media.”

Runjhun said she aims to get into one of the top colleges of DU (University of Delhi) and later pursue a Chartered Accountancy Course.

Avi Sharma, Abhishek Nayak and Kashika Popli from Science stream stood a joint-third with 96% marks.

Talking about his preparations, Avi Sharma said it was challenging to prepare for IIT-JEE along with Board exams. “A student does not have the luxury of missing out a single topic while preparing for board exams and IIT-JEE. I worked hard to ensure that I have a clear understanding of all the concepts. I extensively studied the NCERT books and refer frequently to the notes made during online classes.”

Like Jatin, Avi too used a work-reward system to fight digital distraction. “It’s difficult to avoid gadgets altogether. However, setting up a reward system is a good way to limit screen time. For example, if you finish a chapter without any distractions, give yourself a reward like using the social networking site or surfing the web for some time.”

Avi also emphasised that self-analysis is important after attempting a mock test. “After giving the mock test, doing a thorough self-analysis is vital as it helps you identify your weaknesses.” 

Avi, who wants to be a Silicon Valley software engineer, said hard work is necessary to not just get a good academic score, but to shine in all endeavours. 

“Ambition is the path to success. Persistence is the fuel to keep the engine going…”

DR. SUJEET ERIC MASIH, PRINCIPAL, APEEJAY SCHOOL, SAKET