The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) of India is a sky-high competitive exam that determines the fate of thousands of over 18 lakh medical aspirants one year after another. NEET is the holy grail of some of the best medical colleges in India. If an individual harbors the dream to get there, he must make it a mission in his life to adopt rigorous practices layered with a touch of patience so that he can ace the exam with flying colors.
Here are some time-tested tips and tricks the aspiring individual can adopt to prepare for the upcoming NEET 2023 exam.
The first step to scoring high marks in NEET is to understand the exam pattern. NEET is an MCQ-based exam comprising 200 questions, each carrying four marks. The paper consists of three main sections-Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Botany and Zoology). Knowing the exam pattern beforehand helps you plan your study preparation and develop a profound sense of strategy to tackle the exam.
Second, creating a study schedule is integral to the preparation process. A well-planned study schedule can help you stay on track with your preparation and adjust your timings as required. It can also create openings for following up on topics you do not have a clear grasp of yet. It pays dividends if one can spend pre-allotted time on each subject layered with regular revision tests. This initiative can spread the importance you give to every topic in a time-effective manner.
Third, studying from standard NCERT books is the most crucial step. While several reference books exist for students in the market, which can send you on a wild goose chase, it is best to stick to standard textbooks the board prescribes for exam givers. NCERT textbooks are a good starting point for your NEET preparation because if one goes through the previous papers from the last few years, 90-95 percent of the questions directly come from the NCERT books.
Here is a list of the most important books you can study for every subject.
PHYSICS
Main book
NCERT Physics – Class 11 and 12
Reference book(s)
Objective Physics by Pramod Agarwal
Problems in General Physics by I. E. Irodov
Fundamentals of Physics (Halliday, Resnick, and Walker)
Concepts of Physics by H. C. Verma
CHEMISTRY
Main book
NCERT Chemistry – Class 11 and 12
Reference book(s)
Physical Chemistry by O.P. Tandon
Organic Chemistry by O.P. Tandon
Organic Chemistry by Morrison and Boyd
Inorganic Chemistry by O.P. Tandon
Concise Inorganic Chemistry
BIOLOGY
Main book
NCERT Biology – Class 11 and 12
Reference book(s)
SC Verma Biology books
Biology by GRB Bathla’s Publications
Trueman’s Biology
Fourth, practicing the previous question papers is a crucial step in understanding the questions that will come in the exam. Solving question papers from past exams remains an excellent way to comprehend the exam pattern, the type of questions asked, and its difficulty level. It also helps you identify your weak areas and encourages you to work on them.
Fifth, take regular mock tests! Mock tests simulate the actual exam environment and help you practice time management. It pays to take mock tests on alternate days and analyze your performance to keep improving your scores. The process is not a one-time affair; regular practice benefits the most!
Sixth, do not avoid stressing about your weak areas. Weed out the topics you are weak at and stress greater importance to them. Daily revision should revolve around those topics you find the most difficult, and do not hesitate to seek help from your teachers or mentors.
Seventh, developing shortcuts and tricks can go a long way in saving you a lot of time during the exam. In NEET, time management is as crucial as covering the syllabus. Developing shortcuts and tricks can help you sort and solve your questions one after another without panicking about what you should solve next!
The final step is to gather your thoughts and maintain a calm spirit. Positivity is essential to remember what you have covered and the approach you have set to attempt the exam. A positive attitude and an unworried mind will always help you stay focused and let you improve your performance.
In conclusion, NEET is a challenging exam and is not easy to crack if one has to be honest. But with the right amount of preparation, it is possible to ace it and get admission to the university of your dreams. Follow these tips and tricks, stay focused, and work hard. With appropriate dedication and effort, success is within your reach.
