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​Unusual habits of toppers that makes sense​

TOI Lifestyle Desk
| ETimes.in | Last updated on - Jan 10, 2025, 15:22 IST
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1/9

Here are a few secret tips for the upcoming exams!

Success often comes with unique traits and habits, and toppers—be it in academics, professional exams, or life—are no exception. While their strategies may seem unusual at first glance, they often make perfect sense in hindsight. Here are a few things that toppers do that make sense if you observe carefully.

2/9

Curiosity

Toppers aren’t content with surface-level understanding; they dig deeper. This relentless curiosity drives them to explore concepts beyond what’s taught in the classroom or outlined in textbooks. Instead of memorizing answers, they question the “why” and “how” behind every topic.

Curiosity leads to a stronger grasp of fundamentals, making it easier to apply knowledge in exams or real-life situations. This approach also generates critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

3/9

Micro-scheduling


While many people follow broad schedules, toppers break their day into smaller, precise chunks. They allocate specific time slots for each task, including short breaks, meal times, and even moments of relaxation.
This maximizes productivity and ensures focus on one task at a time. It also prevents procrastination and keeps distractions at bay. You can easily break your day into smaller intervals of 30-60 minutes and micro schedule your studies.

4/9

Learning though teaching


Toppers often take the time to explain complex topics to their peers, even if they’re not formally teaching. This habit helps reinforce their own understanding.
Teaching requires clarity of thought. When you explain a topic, you’re forced to simplify and articulate your understanding, which solidifies your learning.

5/9

Laziness

Surprisingly, toppers can appear “lazy”—but it’s often a strategic choice. They focus only on what’s necessary, skipping unnecessary details to save time and energy.
Prioritization is key to efficiency. By avoiding perfectionism in less important tasks, they dedicate their best effort to areas that truly matter.

6/9

Visualizing success


Visualization is a powerful habit among toppers. They often picture themselves acing an exam or achieving their goals, which keeps them motivated and confident.
Visualization primes the brain for success. It’s a proven psychological technique that enhances focus and reduces anxiety. Create a vision board with images and quotes that inspire you.

7/9

Seeking feedback early and often

Toppers actively seek constructive criticism from teachers, mentors, or peers. They’re not afraid to ask, “What can I do better?”
Feedback helps identify gaps in understanding or performance. Addressing these issues early prevents mistakes from compounding.

8/9

Embracing failure

Failure isn’t a deterrent for toppers; it’s a learning opportunity. They view setbacks as stepping stones to success and bounce back with improved strategies.
Resilience is crucial for long-term success. By analyzing their mistakes, toppers ensure they don’t repeat them.

9/9

Unconventional study spaces



Toppers often choose unusual places to study—cafés, parks, or even rooftops. The change in environment keeps them refreshed and engaged. They rotate study locations between home, libraries, or outdoor spaces.

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Copyright © Jun 12, 2026, 05.03AM IST Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service