How to prepare well for entrance exams in a limited time?

How are you preparing for the most challenging and toughest engineering and medical entrance exams? Cracking JEE, NEET, AIIMS or JIPMER is a dream cherished by millions of aspirants that aim to become an engineer or a doctor. It is the gateway to one of the most sought after and premier engineering and medical institutions such as the IITs, NIITs, AIIMS and other top notch colleges. However, to be honest, as exciting as it feels, cracking the tough nuts like JEE or NEET can be daunting and only a small percentage of students are fortunate enough to make the mark. But wait, did we forget to tell you that with the right preparation and attitude you can smoothly cruise through this tornado and take a step closer to your dream career.

With the clock fast ticking and barely a month to go, the following tips can help you prepare well and in a limited time.

1. It’s about the balance

Strike a balance between the preparation for boards and entrance exams. Plan your time strategically so that you can give enough time to both. The syllabus for both the exams is based on the NCERT textbook. You can pen down the syllabus for both and start with common topics first. Once you are done with it, dedicate time to other topics. It is advisable though to cover the topics with more weightage first.

2. Avoid too many books

It is rightly said that too many cooks spoil the broth. Similarly, studying from too many books is not only time consuming but also exhausting and confusing. With barely a month to go, it’s better to channelize your energy and time wisely. Therefore, read from limited books may be just one or two and devote more time to practising quality questions.

3. Practice hard as nothing comes easy

It is indeed true that practice makes a man perfect. If you want to make a mark, practice hard. Solve as many questions as possible. The more questions you’ll solve the more confident and prepared you’ll be for the exam. Go through previous year papers, solve all the questions and make a note of unsolved ones. Practice them again and again until you succeed.

4. Focus

There would be distractions and there would be time when the pressure to perform might overtake you but don’t lose your focus. It’s your focussed attitude that can turn the tables for you and help you achieve more in less time. A focussed approach leads to better productivity and helps you achieve your goals.

5. Refer to Video Lectures

In the techno-savvy world we live in, access to internet is easy. Make use of it and look for video lectures which can help clarify your doubts and teach you complex concepts in the most simplified way. Watching video lectures is quite an engaging experience which enhances your learning experience. Moreover, these video lectures can be paused and played end number of times at the sole discretion of the learner.

6. Talk to the Experts

Preparing for such coveted exams is not a cakewalk. Even after thorough preparation, students tend to face doubts and have problems in understanding concepts. It is advisable to not lament on it and talk to the experts. They can be your teachers, professionals, alumni, or experts who have been in your shoes. Having “been there and done that”, a chat with them can give you a whole new insight and help you know the dos and don’ts of preparing for the exam.

7. Form a peer group

Surrounding yourself with focussed and goal oriented students can take your preparation up a few more notches. Be a part of a peer group or form one. These can be your classmates, roommates or other aspiring students. Spend time after the class, discuss the concepts, share queries, etc. All this will not only keep you updated with the latest and important questions but will also introduce you to newer ways of solving problems.

8. Unwind yourself

Staying hooked to the textbooks all day long can be quite exhausting for the brain. It is, thus, important to unwind yourself. Listen to some good music, go for a walk to get some fresh air or play your favourite sport. It will not only relax your mind but will also improve your concentration and focus.