Many a parent often tells that the child learns till midnight or from four in the morning everyday, on the presumption that such an approach ensures quality in studies. They hardly realize that duration of learning does not reflect its effectiveness. We often wonder why certain students who burn the midnight oil fail in securing superior grades in examinations. The fallacy involved can be resolved if we appreciate the complex nature of the learning process.

From practical point of view, every student expects good grades if he puts in hard work. He may not succeed in achieving this objective, unless he follows sound methods and strategies for effective learning. In lower classes, high grades may be easy since the volume of lesson contents is relatively small. But at higher levels where the student has to handle large volumes in diverse subjects, he has to optimize his efforts and ensure quality in his learning style, if fine results are to be achieved. In other words, he should identify sound strategies to secure effectiveness in the learning process.

Another aspect to be considered is the style to be followed in answering examination questions. We know that a student who knows most may not score the highest marks in any examination. A lot depends on how he handles the questions and what strategies he adopts in presentation.

Let us analyze this problem in some detail. We would focus on learning with particular emphasis on academic studies aimed at examinations. Even though, examinations are only instruments for evaluating the achievement levels of students, our universities and other bodies often put the cart before the horse. “A cynic once remarked that the present system of learning and examination reminds us of ‘the tail wagging the dog’”. Be that as it may, we would look at various aspects of learning for examinations.

High achievers in examinations invariably keep in mind the types and standard of questions in the examination, during their preparation. They anticipate the test style and prepare to meed it effectively. The first step should therefore be a review of previous question papers .

As a student, you may face pressure from teachers and parents who raise the expectation level of your performance in the examination. the best approach is to take it as a positive influence. There may be several kinds of suggestions and advice from well wishers. Obviously you cannot follow all those. Process them in the crucible of your mind and arrive at your own style and approach in learning. Your burning desire for excelling others would also contribute to examination pressure and consequent tension. You must face the challenge calmly and attempt to do your best during the preparation and in the examination. Will be continued in the next post……