Prepare for Elementary & Intermediate Drawing Exams at Home: The Elementary and Intermediate Drawing Grade Examinations are crucial for students who wish to showcase their artistic talents and gain recognition in Maharashtra’s art education system. Conducted by the Maharashtra State Board, these exams assess foundational and advanced skills in drawing and design, and are often considered a stepping stone for careers in fine arts, architecture, design, and animation.
If you’re looking to prepare for Elementary & Intermediate Drawing Exams at home, the good news is—you can do it effectively with the right guidance, tools, and practice. Whether you’re a student or a parent helping your child, this guide will walk you through the complete home preparation strategy.
Understand the Exam Structure First
Before you start studying, it’s important to know the format of both the Elementary and Intermediate exams.
Elementary Drawing Exam Includes:
- Object Drawing
- Memory Drawing
- Design
- Plane Geometry
Intermediate Drawing Exam Includes:
- Still Life
- Memory Drawing
- Design
- Applied Art / Lettering
- Geometry & Solid Geometry
Each paper is time-bound and assesses creativity, observation, imagination, and basic design knowledge.
Gather the Right Materials
To prepare for Elementary & Intermediate Drawing Exams at home, having the right supplies is essential.
Must-have items:
- Drawing sheets (A3 size, smooth)
- Pencils (HB, 2B, 4B, 6B)
- Colour pencils and watercolours
- Ruler, eraser, sharpener, compass
- Geometry tools (protractor, divider, set square)
- Black markers for lettering
Organise your workspace with good lighting and a comfortable drawing surface. Keep your materials ready before you begin practice.
Create a Weekly Practice Schedule
Consistency is key. Break down your syllabus into weekly tasks.
Sample Weekly Plan:
Monday: Object Drawing
Tuesday: Memory Drawing
Wednesday: Design concepts and colour theory
Thursday: Geometry practice
Friday: Model test paper
Weekend: Review and corrections
Spending at least 1–2 hours daily will help build confidence and speed.
Focus on Fundamentals
Understanding basic art concepts is vital for both exams.
For Object/Still Life Drawing:
- Practice drawing simple objects like bottles, fruits, lamps, and vases.
- Work on light, shadow, and proportions.
- Study the placement and composition of items.
For Memory Drawing:
- Choose real-life scenes: market, birthday party, traffic junction, etc.
- Break the scene into foreground, midground, and background.
- Keep characters proportionate and expressive.
For Design:
- Understand principles like balance, rhythm, contrast, and symmetry.
- Use basic shapes and create patterns.
- Practice using limited colour palettes effectively.
Learn Geometry and Lettering Techniques
In Intermediate exams, geometry and applied art have higher weightage.
- Practice drawing 2D and 3D shapes with accuracy.
- Label parts neatly using proper lettering style.
- For lettering, maintain size, spacing, and alignment.
- Use block letters, Roman or Gothic style depending on the paper format.
Solve Previous Year Question Papers
One of the best ways to prepare for Elementary & Intermediate Drawing Exams at home is by solving old papers. This helps you:
- Understand question patterns
- Improve time management
- Identify common topics
- Track progress
Try timing yourself during practice sessions. Stick to the official exam duration to build discipline.
Use Online Resources and Tutorials
In today’s digital world, learning drawing techniques is easier than ever.
Useful Platforms:
- YouTube (search for “Elementary Drawing Exam tutorials”)
- Pinterest and Instagram for design inspiration
- Mobile apps for colour theory and geometry practice
You can also download mock papers and exam samples from Maharashtra State Board websites or join WhatsApp/Telegram groups where students share study tips.
Get Feedback and Improve
Show your practice sheets to teachers, tutors, or experienced students for suggestions. Even at home, constructive feedback is vital to avoid repeating mistakes.
Tips:
- Keep a folder of your drawings in sequence to track improvement.
- Maintain a sketchbook to record daily practice.
- Review your weak areas weekly and work on them deliberately.
Mock Tests and Time Practice
Set up mock exam days at home before the actual test. Mimic the exam environment by following:
- Time limits (usually 2 or 3 hours per paper)
- No distractions
- Exam-specific format (draw border lines, write name and roll number neatly)
Practicing under pressure boosts speed and confidence.
Stay Mentally Prepared
These exams are important, but not stressful if approached with discipline and planning. Stay calm, focus on progress, not perfection.
- Take short breaks to avoid burnout.
- Eat well and sleep properly, especially before the exam.
- Avoid comparing your work with others. Every artist has their own style.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare without going to coaching classes?
Yes. With a clear schedule, practice, and online resources, home preparation is absolutely possible.
2. How long should I practice each day?
1 to 2 hours daily is ideal for regular progress.
3. Where can I find old question papers?
Check school archives, Maharashtra State Board websites, or ask seniors/teachers.
4. Is memory drawing difficult?
Not if you practice common topics and learn how to compose a scene.
5. Are these exams important for future careers?
Yes. They help build your art portfolio and are beneficial if you pursue design, architecture, or fine arts.
Final Thoughts
To prepare for Elementary & Intermediate Drawing Exams at home, all you need is dedication, practice, and a bit of creativity. These exams are a great opportunity to showcase your skills and lay a foundation for a future in art or design. Whether you’re studying on your own or with minimal support, consistent effort can lead to success.
Use the time at home wisely, set goals, stay focused, and let your creativity flow freely. Good luck—and enjoy the process of creating art!
