As most of the students are net-savvy these days, online games seem to be the most preferred option for students. “After long hours of studying, online games come as a breather. I prefer playing alone or compete with my friends who are online. It refreshes my mind a lot,” says Rajat Khanna, a Class X student.

His friend, however, catches up with books and newspapers as a means of recreation. “Whenever I take a break from studies, I read newspapers and also read a novel at times. While newspapers update me about the happenings around the globe, a story book apart from entertaining me also refines my writing skills,” says Ankush Kumar, another student of Class X.

Music, too, scores high among students as a stress buster. “During examinations, it is rock music that becomes my favourite. I also listen to old Hindi melodies as they help in calming my nerves. Ghazals are another favourite but at times they get very philosophical,” feels Kashish, a student of Class XII. Dance classes, football and cricket matches are other favourites that help students beat stress. 

Parents too feel that children should be allowed to pursue their interests during examination time.

“My daughter loves gardening. So I let her spend an hour or so in the garden during the evening. This not only breaks her monotonous routine of academics, but also lets me spend quality time with her,” says Supreet Kaur, mother of a Class X student.