The answer
68% is actually a solid score, especially if the paper was tough or the class average is lower. In Indian exams, percentage is just a number; what matters is your relative performance. If you scored 68 and the topper got 75, you're not far behind. But if the average is 40, you're above average. Percentage = (Marks obtained / Total marks) × 100. For example, if you got 34 out of 50, that's .
Marks alone don't define your potential. Many competitive exams (like JEE, NEET) use percentile or normalisation, where your rank matters more than raw marks. A 68% in a board exam can still get you a good stream in Class 11 if the cut-off is around 65. In college, 68% might be a first class in some universities (often 60-75% is first class). So don't let mom's 'paisa vasool' logic scare you.
How to defend it to mom: 1. Show her the class average – if it's lower, you're actually ahead. 2. Remind her that schools and colleges value consistency – a 68% is a decent base to improve from. 3. Compare with last year's toppers – if the topper got 70, you're not bad. 4. Add that extra-curriculars and life skills matter too – not just marks.
In short: 68% is not a failure, it's a stepping stone. With focused effort, you can easily push it to 80+ next time. So next time mom says 'beta, 68% hai kya?', just smile and say, 'Maa, average se upar hoon, aur improvement ka scope bhi hai.'
