Success in board exams and competitive tests like NEET, JEE, and CUET doesn’t come from sheer hours alone—it comes from studying smarter, revising strategically, and staying mentally strong. We spoke to top performers from Dolphin Academy to uncover the habits that helped them excel.
From actionable study hacks and science-backed revision techniques to real-world exam strategies and mental health resources, here’s what helped our toppers—and what could help you too.
📅 1. Build a Study Timetable That Works for You
“My biggest breakthrough was realizing I needed a study plan tailored to my energy levels.” — Neha A., CBSE Science Topper
Top scorers use customized study timetables to stay on track. They:
- Block time for each subject based on difficulty
- Account for breaks and buffer time
- Use digital tools or wall planners
- Keep revising the plan based on what works
Need help building your plan? Here’s a practical guide on creating a revision schedule that you’ll actually use.
🧠 2. Smart Study Hacks That Actually Work
“I used flashcards and taught myself topics like I was explaining them to a class.” — Aryan J., NEET Qualifier
Dolphin’s toppers go beyond rereading notes. They use proven study hacks such as:
- Chunking topics into bite-sized concepts
- Mnemonics for tricky terms
- Teaching others (or even yourself!)
- Creating visual mind maps
Want a comprehensive list of ways to study more effectively? Victoria University offers 10 study tips that are perfect for school and competitive prep.
📝 3. Write It Down—The Power of Handwritten Notes
“Writing by hand helped me understand rather than just remember.” — Diya S., CUET Top Ranker
Toppers rely heavily on handwritten notes. Why?
- Improves memory retention and comprehension
- Encourages active processing of content
- Easier to create visual summaries like charts and diagrams
Try different methods like Cornell Notes, flowcharts, or blurting to see what clicks for you.
🔄 4. Use Active Recall to Retain More in Less Time
“I stopped rereading chapters—I started testing myself every day.” — Raghav T., JEE Advanced Qualifier
One of the most powerful learning techniques? Active recall. It involves actively pulling information out of your brain rather than passively reviewing material.
Techniques include:
- Flashcards
- Blurting (writing down all you know on a topic)
- Past paper practice
- Teaching others
Want more science behind it? Check out this deep dive on active recall from the University of Arizona.
⏳ 5. Time Management—During Prep and the Exam
“In the exam, I tackled the easiest questions first and returned to the harder ones later.” — Karan L., Class 12 Commerce Topper
Efficient time management is a game changer—both before and during exams.
- Use the Pomodoro Technique while studying
- Eliminate distractions with “focus mode” apps
- Break tasks down to avoid procrastination
- Create a prep + rest routine that’s sustainable
And for the exam itself? Learn the most effective exam strategies—like scanning the paper first, keeping time checks, and reviewing at the end.
🧘 6. Don’t Forget Mental Health
“I took Sundays off, went for walks, and kept reminding myself it’s just a phase.” — Tanvi P., CBSE Humanities Topper
Preparation doesn’t mean burnout. Toppers protect their mental health and manage stress as seriously as they manage their grades.
Explore resources like:
- NIMH’s student mental health tools
- The Jed Foundation for emotional well-being
- Active Minds, promoting mental health in academic settings
Take care of yourself—it’s the secret sauce to academic longevity.
💤 7. Sleep—The Topper’s Superpower
“Sleep wasn’t optional—it was part of my strategy.” — Yusuf R., CUET 99.8%ile Scorer
Almost every topper mentions one underrated tool: sleep. It helps with:
- Memory consolidation
- Emotional regulation
- Energy and focus during study marathons
Read more on how sleep impacts your studies and why it’s essential for academic success.
💬 Final Word: Find What Works for You
Every student is different. Use these proven methods from Dolphin’s best, but tailor them to your goals, your energy levels, and your mindset.
Smart prep > stress prep.
There is definately a lot to find out about this subject. I like all the points you made