Preparation Tips For NEET- How To Ace The Test
Sitting for competitive exams has always been a daunting task. Nonetheless, millions of students appear for them every year to secure their seats in the college or job of their choice. NEET or National Eligibility cum Entrance Test is no different, accounting for nearly 10-15 lakhs of these applicants. Consequently, candidates fight fiercely for a seat in their chosen medical college.
NEET 2021, however, will be more challenging. With the panic of the worldwide pandemic infecting every household, students are under much more duress and find it more difficult to concentrate. Thus to ace this examination, a focused preparation strategy is of utmost importance. But before we dive into that, let us take a look at the examination pattern for this year as announced by the National Testing Agency-
- The syllabus includes Class 11th and 12th standard Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
- There are a total of 180 questions (90-Biology, 45-Chemistry, 45-Physics)
- With every right answer, you are awarded four marks, and with every wrong one, one mark is deducted.
- Thus, the maximum possible mark is 720 (360-Biology, 180- Physics and Chemistry each).
- The total exam time is 3 hours and will be conducted offline.
Now that we have an overview of the examination, let’s look at some useful strategic tips for preparation.
- Know your strengths
Trends in the last past year have shown that a score of 500-600 is considered acceptable and will secure a seat in a nationally acclaimed medical college. Thus it is vital to ascertain which subjects and areas you are strong at and try to get maximum accuracy in those sections. It is advisable to build your strength in Biology since it has maximum weightage in the examination.
- Plan your day’s schedule the previous day
You mustn’t waste time procrastinating. To avoid that, always prepare the next day’s schedule the night before to save time and have a clear mindset of your goals. And ALWAYS achieve your daily goals. NEVER keep it for the next day.
- Time allotment
Break up your day in portions for studying, revision, etc., and STICK to it. Moreover, try to ascertain whether you are comfortable with long stretches of study sessions or shorter ones with breaks in them. This generally varies from person to person, but psychological testing has shown shorter sessions for memorizing materials and longer stretches for revision to be most effective.
- Practice questions and give mock tests
In the initial months of preparation, it is essential to study as much as possible. But as the exam approaches, start practicing as many questions as you can and giving mock tests.Search Teachers offers various and sectional tests for a continuous and holistic practice. After attempting these mocks, it is also crucial to analyze them and work on your mistakes to improve your score.
- Keeping a score log
Drawing from the previous point, always maintain a score log of your mocks along with a section-wise break-up of scores. This will motivate you to work harder and show you the areas you need to improve.
- Practice past year question papers
This will help get a comprehensive idea about the examination trends and question types.
- Taking care of your mental health
Lastly, you must find ways to keep focused and calm throughout the stressful situation we have all found ourselves in. Even for 5 minutes during any time of the day, meditation or guided meditation will help you keep centered and calm. Eating healthy food and sleeping for at least 7 hours a day is also essential. DO NOT study when you are feeling tired or sleepy. This will only add to the pressure but not achieve anything fruitful.