The countdown to the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) and Indian School Certificate (ISC) 2025 board exams has begun, and students are racing against time to prepare thoroughly. The examination day is the true test of all your hard work, sleepless nights, and countless hours of study.
Managing time effectively during the exam is as important as knowing the subject matter. It helps you stay composed, focused, and ensures you maximise your performance.
Tips to master time management on exam day
1. Skim the Paper Before Starting
Use the first 10-15 minutes wisely. Quickly skim through the entire question paper, read the instructions, and identify the questions you feel confident about. This helps you form a clear strategy to approach the paper.
2. Allocate Time Strategically
Each subject and exam format demands a specific time-management strategy
For ICSE (Class 10):
English Paper I (2 hours, 80 marks):
Science Papers (2-3 hours):
Pro Tip: For short answers, stick to concise responses. Diagrams (especially in Biology or Physics) should be neat, labeled, and accurate – they can fetch marks even with minimal explanation.
For ISC (Class 12):
Commerce Subjects (Accountancy, Business Studies, Economics)
Geography (3 hours, 70 marks):
Pro Tip: For map-based questions, use a pencil for markings, avoid guessing locations, and focus on accuracy.
3. Avoid Getting Stuck on One Question
If a question seems challenging, skip it and move on to the next. Return to the tough ones later. Spending too much time on a single question can prevent you from finishing the paper.
4. Write in Points Where Possible
For theory-heavy subjects, present your answers in bullet points. This saves time and makes your answers easier to read.
5. Maximise the Reading Time
Both ICSE and ISC papers allocate the first 15 minutes for reading the question paper. Utilise this time to:
Example: In ISC English Paper I, the precis question (8 marks) is part of the comprehension section (20 marks). Use the reading time to outline the summary, which will save you time during the actual writing.
6. Reserve Time for Revision
Finish your answers 10–15 minutes before the exam ends. Use this time to:
7. Stay Calm Under Pressure
Stress can derail your time management efforts. If you feel overwhelmed, take a few deep breaths to regain focus. A calm mind works faster and more efficiently.
By applying these time management strategies, you’ll be better equipped to handle the pressure of both ICSE and ISC exams, ensuring that you not only complete the paper within the stipulated time but also perform to the best of your ability.
Prepare well, manage your time effectively, and give it your best shot!
Abira Das is a seasoned educationist with over 26 years of experience in the field of academia. Currently serving as the Principal of Agrasain Boys’ School, she has been instrumental in shaping young minds and fostering a culture of excellence and holistic development. In her capacity as the Assistant Secretary of the Association of Schools for the Indian School Certificate (ASISC) for West Bengal and Northeast States, she plays a pivotal role in steering policies and practices across a vast network of institutions.