How useful are guides and notes ?

 Q. It has been observed that school and college students rely more on coaching centres and ‘Notes’ available in the market while school teaching and textbooks are becoming secondary.
Write an article in about 200 words on How useful are guides and notes? 

The Utility of Guides and Notes: A Double-Edged Sword
By: Vidya/Vinod 

In today’s competitive academic landscape, students are increasingly turning to coaching centers and market-available notes, often relegating school teaching and textbooks to a secondary role. While these resources can provide valuable supplementary learning, their overuse can also lead to certain drawbacks.

One of the primary benefits of guides and notes is their ability to offer focused and concise explanations of complex topics. They can break down difficult concepts into more digestible chunks, making it easier for students to understand and retain information. Additionally, these resources often include practice questions and exercises that can help students solidify their understanding and prepare for exams.

However, excessive reliance on guides and notes can have negative consequences. When students become overly dependent on these external resources, they may neglect to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They may also struggle to apply their knowledge in unfamiliar contexts, as guides and notes often provide a narrow and structured approach to learning. Furthermore, the quality of guides and notes can vary widely, and some may contain inaccuracies or outdated information.

In conclusion, while guides and notes can be helpful tools for students, it is important to use them judiciously. They should be seen as supplementary resources rather than primary sources of learning. By striking a balance between external resources and traditional classroom instruction, students can maximize their academic potential and develop the skills necessary for success.

• Relegate: to put someone or something into a lower or less important rank or position.
• digestible chunks: information that is easy to understand and presented in a way that is easy to consume.