Coimbatore: Students preparing for public examinations should maintain a healthy diet and adopt structured study techniques to improve concentration and retention, psychological counsellor Arul Vadivu said.

He advised students to consume easily digestible foods such as idli, upma and sprouted grains in the morning, fibre-rich vegetables, greens and eggs in the afternoon, and light dinner options to stay energised during preparation.

Explaining an effective learning strategy, he recommended the “SQWRRR” technique — Survey, Question, Write, Read, Recite and Review — to enhance memory. Students should first understand questions and answers thoroughly, read aloud to reinforce learning, write down what they have studied and periodically review or teach the content to others, he said.

Excessive use of mobile phones, laptops and television can lead to eye strain and reduced focus, he cautioned, urging students to limit screen time.

He also emphasised the importance of confidence, regular practice and time management to perform effectively in public examinations.