Parents in Mumbai know how important it is to give their children the best chance in life. With so many school options, the IGCSE board is now a top choice for many families in our city. But the question many parents ask is this: how to study for IGCSE in a way that truly helps their child? Here’s a simple guide, full of practical tips that every parent and student can follow at home.
Understanding the IGCSE and Its Purpose
So, what is IGCSE? It stands for International General Certificate of Secondary Education. Designed by Cambridge, it’s for students aged 14 to 16. The Cambridge IGCSE syllabus is respected across the globe. It focuses on real understanding, not just memorising facts.
Students can choose from a wide range of subjects, from Science and Maths to Languages and the Arts. This flexibility lets your child explore their strengths. The curriculum builds strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are helpful for higher studies and future careers. Many IGCSE schools in Borivali offer this curriculum, making it a popular choice for families here.
Practical Tips to Support Exam Preparation
When it comes to preparing for IGCSE exams, you don’t have to spend on expensive tutors. These tried and tested steps work well for most students
- Understand the syllabus thoroughly
Sit with your child and go through the IGCSE syllabus together. Treat it like a checklist: tick off each topic as you finish it. Also, look at the assessment objectives and marking scheme. This way, your child will know what the examiner expects and which topics need more attention. Knowing the syllabus well gives students a clear path to follow and helps avoid surprises in the exam
2. Create a realistic study timetable
Help your child make a study calendar, using a school diary or a wall planner. Break down big topics into smaller tasks for each day or week. Be specific, like “finish algebra exercises” or “revise biology chapter 2.” Spread subjects out and mix easy and tough topics. This avoids last-minute stress and helps your child know what to do each day.
3. Practice with past papers and mark schemes
Doing past papers is one of the best ways to prepare. It helps students get used to the question pattern and timing. After finishing each paper, check answers using the official mark scheme. This shows how to write answers that fetch the most marks. Practising regularly makes your child more confident and quicker during the real exam.
4. Use quality study resources
School textbooks are good, but don’t stop there. Use other resources like IGCSE guides, online notes, and educational videos (such as on YouTube or Khan Academy). These explain topics in different ways and can help clear up doubts. Sometimes, other students’ notes or summary charts are helpful too. The right mix of resources gives a better understanding.
5. Try active revision techniques
Instead of just reading notes, encourage your child to use flashcards, draw mind maps, or summarise topics in their own words. Teaching a topic to a friend or even a family member is a great way to remember things. Practising these methods helps the brain recall facts faster in the exam hall.
6. Balance study with health and breaks
Remind your child not to study for hours without a break. Short and regular breaks, using the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes study, 5 minutes rest), work wonders. A balanced diet, drinking enough water, some daily exercise, and good sleep all help the brain work better. Staying healthy and relaxed is just as important as studying.
Why Choose Witty Schools for Your Child’s IGCSE Journey?
If you want guidance on how to prepare for IGCSE exams, Witty Schools is a trusted name. They follow the Cambridge IGCSE syllabus and have teachers who understand the needs of Indian students.
Along with studies, they focus on activities that help children grow all around. Whether you are looking for admission for kindergarten or higher classes, Witty Schools offer a safe and caring space. Many Mumbai parents pick Witty Schools for their strong academic support and focus on each child’s growth.