Toppers credit success to self-study, steady effort
As the Class X and XII results across ICSE, CBSE and PSEB boards were announced recently, one clear message emerged from Jalandhar’s top scorers — success doesn’t stem from shortcuts, expensive coaching or last-minute cramming. Instead, the toppers credited their achievements to disciplined self-study, consistent effort throughout the year and the smart use of technology.
Across different boards and backgrounds, the highest scorers echoed the same principles: follow a regular schedule, focus on concept clarity, avoid last-minute panic and use digital tools judiciously. Whether it was 99.8 per cent in CBSE Class X, 99 per cent in ICSE Class X, or 92.56 per cent in ICSE Class XII, the exceptional scores were built on daily habits rather than last-minute sprints.
Many students said they never waited for the final months to start preparing seriously. Instead, they revised regularly, practiced sample papers and treated every school test as a stepping stone towards board exams. Their success wasn’t the result of rigid timetables, but of setting realistic daily or weekly goals and meeting them with focus and honesty.
What stood out this year was how students approached social media — not as a distraction, but as a study aid. Academic videos, doubt-solving channels and exam updates were some of the productive uses mentioned. Still, toppers were mindful of their screen time. “Social media can help if you control it; it becomes a problem only when it controls you,” said Arya, one of the district toppers.
Interestingly, many of the top performers avoided private tuition altogether. Instead, they relied on school classes, self-prepared notes and online resources. Self-assessment was another common habit — they regularly solved mock papers, analysed their mistakes and ensured they didn’t repeat them. Rote learning was discouraged; deep understanding of concepts was the preferred strategy, enabling them to tackle diverse questions confidently.
“Consistency, more than intensity, was the keyword. I didn’t study 12 hours a day all year but gradually increased my study time and made it more focused as exams approached. I treated study as a daily habit rather than a panic response to looming deadlines,” said Adaa, the CBSE Class X district topper.
Mental well-being was also a priority. Many students said they stayed calm under pressure by taking breaks, speaking with family, or distancing themselves from negativity. They believed maintaining mental health was just as essential as academic revision.
For students currently in Classes IX and XI, preparing for next year’s board exams, this year’s toppers offer a clear and practical roadmap: start early, stay consistent, understand your subjects deeply, practise regularly and use technology wisely.
“The path to a high score is not a sprint in the last lap, but a marathon of small, disciplined steps taken every day,” said Trisha, another topper.
She added that if there is one lesson the results have driven home, it is this — there is no secret shortcut to success. Only a smart, steady and sincere approach will take you to the top.
Jalandhar