A Comprehensive Guide for Goa Board Students and Parents

The "Board Exam" season in Goa is often met with a mix of excitement and intense pressure. Whether you are a student preparing for your GBSHSE SSC (Class 10) or HSSC (Class 12) exams, or a parent watching from the sidelines, the tension can feel overwhelming.

But here is the truth, stress doesn't have to be your shadow. Learning how to reduce exam stress is just as important as mastering your Science or Maths syllabus. In this guide, we’ll explore practical ways to stay calm, focused, and healthy during the most critical months of the academic year.

1. For Students: How to Reduce Exam Stress While Studying

Studying hard is important, but studying smart saves your mental health.

• Break the "Mountain" into Small Rocks: Don't look at the whole Ganit Prakash or Science textbook at once. Use a "To-Do" list to finish one chapter at a time. Small wins boost confidence!

• The 50/10 Rule: Study for 50 minutes, then take a 10-minute break. Step away from your desk. Stretch, drink water, or listen to one favorite song.

• Active Recall over Re-reading: Instead of just reading notes, close the book and try to explain the concept out loud. If you can explain it to a friend (or even your pet!), you’ve mastered it.

• Prioritize Sleep: Your brain processes information while you sleep. Pulling "all-nighters" actually makes you forget things faster the next day. Aim for 7-8 hours.

2. For Parents: Being the "Anchor" in the Storm

Parents play a massive role in how a student handles pressure. Here is how you can help:

• Listen More, Lecture Less: If your child says they are tired, believe them. A 15-minute conversation about something other than exams can be a great stress buster.

• The "No Comparison" Rule: Avoid comparing your child’s marks with cousins or neighbors. Every student has a different learning curve.

• Create a Quiet Environment: Ensure they have a well-lit, quiet corner to study. Keep the household noise (like TV or loud phone calls) to a minimum during study hours.

• Healthy Nutrition: Prepare light, brain-boosting meals. Fresh fruits and plenty of water are better than sugary snacks that cause "sugar crashes."

3. Dealing with "Exam Hall Anxiety"

Sometimes the stress hits right when you sit at the desk in the exam hall. If your mind goes blank:

• Stop and Breathe: Take three deep breaths.

• Read the Easy Questions First: Start with what you know. This builds momentum and tells your brain, "I can do this!"

• Stay Hydrated: Keep a water bottle handy. A sip of water can physically calm your nervous system.