NEET Exam Day Strategy – What to Attempt First & Why: The NEET UG 2025 exam, scheduled for 4th May 2025, is a crucial milestone for lakhs of aspiring doctors in India. After months of rigorous preparation, performing smartly on the exam day can make a significant difference in your final score. It’s not just about how much you know: it’s about how strategically you approach the paper. In this article, we’ll guide you through the perfect NEET exam day strategy, covering what to attempt first and why, tips to manage time effectively, and how to stay calm under pressure. Let’s dive in!
Understanding the NEET 2025 Exam Pattern
Before deciding on a strategy, it’s important to know the structure of the NEET UG 2025 exam:
| Section | Number of Questions | Marks | Subjects Covered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section A | 35 Questions (each) | 140 | Physics, Chemistry, Biology |
| Section B | 15 Questions (each) | 40 | Physics, Chemistry, Biology |
| Total | 200 questions (180 to attempt) | 720 |
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Physics: 45 questions
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Chemistry: 45 questions
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Biology (Botany + Zoology): 90 questions
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Marking Scheme: +4 for correct answer, -1 for incorrect answer
Candidates must attempt 180 questions out of the available 200.
What Should You Attempt First in NEET 2025?
1. Start with Biology
Why?
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Biology carries the maximum weightage (50% of the paper).
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Most students find Biology easier and quicker to solve.
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A strong start boosts confidence for the tougher sections ahead.
How to Approach?
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Quickly go through direct NCERT-based questions.
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Avoid spending too much time on tricky or analytical Biology questions; mark and review them later if needed.
2. Move on to Chemistry
Why?
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Chemistry acts as a bridge between Biology and Physics.
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Many questions in Chemistry, especially Inorganic and Organic Chemistry, are fact-based and formula-driven, requiring less time.
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Solving Chemistry next helps maintain your exam momentum.
How to Approach?
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Attempt easy memory-based questions first.
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Apply formulas carefully in Physical Chemistry problems.
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If calculation looks lengthy, mark it and revisit after completing the easier ones.
3. End with Physics
Why?
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Physics is often considered the most time-consuming and challenging section.
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Attempting it last ensures you have already secured good marks in Biology and Chemistry.
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Starting with tough sections might lead to panic, affecting performance in easier subjects.
How to Approach?
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Solve direct formula-based questions first.
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Skip lengthy numerical problems during the first pass and attempt them only if time permits.
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Be cautious of negative marking; guesswork should be minimal.
NEET 2025 Exam Strategy – Step-by-Step
| Time Slot (Out of 3 Hours 20 Minutes) | Section | Strategy Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| First 50–55 Minutes | Biology | Quick solve, prioritize easy NCERT-based questions |
| Next 50–55 Minutes | Chemistry | Attempt memory-based and formula-based questions first |
| Remaining 70–80 Minutes | Physics | Focus on direct questions first, then time-consuming numericals |
| Last 15–20 Minutes | Review | Revisit marked questions, check answers carefully |
Important NEET Exam Day Tips
1. Manage Your Time Smartly
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Don’t stick to a single tough question for more than 1 minute.
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If confused, mark it for review and move ahead.
2. Use Rough Sheets Efficiently
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Keep rough work neat, especially for Physics calculations.
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Number your rough calculations to match them with questions easily.
3. Stay Calm and Composed
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Deep breathing helps if you feel anxious during the exam.
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Positive thinking can make a big difference in performance.
4. Watch Out for Silly Mistakes
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Always double-check your option before marking.
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Read units in Physics and Chemistry questions carefully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in NEET 2025
| Mistake | How to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Spending too much time on one question | Set a timer and move on after 60 seconds if unsure |
| Blind guesswork | Attempt only if you can eliminate at least two options |
| Ignoring instructions | Carefully read all section-wise instructions |
| Not reviewing answers | Reserve last 15–20 minutes for a full review |
Benefits of Attempting Easy Questions First
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Boosts Confidence: Solving easy questions first creates positive momentum.
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Maximizes Attempts: Increases the number of questions attempted correctly.
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Saves Time: Avoids wasting crucial minutes early on.
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Reduces Anxiety: Completing one section early lessens exam stress.
Key Topics to Focus While Attempting NEET 2025
| Subject | Important Topics |
|---|---|
| Biology | Human Physiology, Genetics, Ecology, Cell Biology |
| Chemistry | Chemical Bonding, Coordination Compounds, Organic Reactions |
| Physics | Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Modern Physics |
Focus more on NCERT-based direct questions to maximize your score quickly.
Essential Things to Check Before Leaving for the Exam
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Admit Card printout
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Valid ID Proof (Aadhaar card, Passport, etc.)
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Transparent ballpoint pen
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Passport-size photographs (as specified)
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Water bottle (transparent)
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Know your exam center location and reporting time
Conclusion
Remember, the NEET 2025 exam is as much about smart execution as it is about knowledge. Starting with Biology, followed by Chemistry, and finishing with Physics is a time-tested approach that has helped thousands of toppers maximize their score.
Stick to your strengths, keep calm, manage your time smartly, and most importantly — believe in yourself. Your preparation will reflect in your performance if you execute the exam day strategy wisely.
Good luck to all NEET 2025 aspirants!
NEET Exam Day Strategy – What to Attempt First & Why FAQs
1. Which subject should I attempt first in NEET 2025?
It is generally recommended to attempt Biology first in NEET 2025.
Since Biology has the maximum number of questions and is more fact-based, solving it first can boost your confidence and help you secure more marks quickly before moving on to Chemistry and Physics.
2. Why should I leave Physics for the last in NEET?
Physics is often the most challenging and time-consuming section for many students. Attempting it after Biology and Chemistry ensures that you have already secured marks in easier sections. Starting with Physics might consume too much time early in the exam, leaving less time for high-scoring subjects.
3. Is it okay to skip difficult questions initially during NEET?
Yes, it is advisable to skip difficult or time-consuming questions during your first attempt.
Focus on answering all the easy and direct questions first. This strategy saves time and ensures that you attempt maximum questions correctly without getting stuck.
4. How much time should I allocate to each section in NEET 2025?
Ideally, you should follow this time distribution:
Biology: 50–55 minutes
Chemistry: 50–55 minutes
Physics: 70–80 minutes
Review time: 15–20 minutes
This allocation helps you manage the 3 hours 20 minutes duration effectively without rushing in the end
5. Should I attempt all 200 questions in NEET?
No, you are required to attempt only 180 questions out of 200.
Be selective and avoid attempting questions you are unsure about, as wrong answers will lead to negative marking. Prioritize accuracy over attempting all questions.
