Preparation strategy for JEE Advanced

Preparing for JEE Advanced is the first step of the journey to becoming an IITian. JEE Advanced, being one of the toughest national level examinations, tests one’s patience, concepts and ability to manage time effectively. Undoubtedly, it is an exam of true grit. With less than a month left, this last stage is one of the most critical phases in the life of an aspiring IITian who at this point are battling with frayed nerves and weakening confidences.

In this fraught environment, a well planned strategy ensures coverage of vital chapters, proper time management that are necessary to ace the exams. It is essential is to develop a preparation strategy on the basis of crucial topics and subjects, covering the most at a minimal timeframe.

Add these vital preparation strategies to your list to ensure that you come on top on the D-Day:

Know the JEE advanced exam pattern
You know your preparation is headed in the right direction if you are well aware about the exam structure and syllabus. Since the exam pattern varies year to year, update yourself on the working of the actual exam to familiarize with the marking scheme, marks weightage, questions weightage and types of questions.

Mock tests in simulated environment
Solve mock tests and sample papers to identify weak-spots and gaps in your preparation. This will enable you to gauge your performance and clear doubts, if any, with your teachers or tutors. Time yourself as it is always good to monitor the time spent per question, given the limited time frame for JEE Advanced. Before solving the paper, go through the entire paper to assess and prioritize question based on your capabilities and thoroughness. By following this practice, you can easily score on the question familiar to you and keep the difficult ones towards the end.

Stay healthy
In order to achieve your goal, you have to stay fit and healthy; this entails physical fitness as well as mental. Students must indulge in a healthy, nutritious diet and also maintain a good sleep pattern. Five to six hours of sleep is a must, especially 3-4 days before the exam. Short naps will help to regain freshness, however, avoid over-sleeping during the day.

Indulge in stress busting activities
All work and no play, never does any benefit for anyone. Moreover, during this last month, candidates tend to have high stress levels which can play havoc to the immune system. Try to avoid stressing out. Take regular breaks and ensure you spend time indulging in hobbies and favourite pastimes. Refrain from social media platforms. Actively manage your stress levels with exercise, connecting with friends/family, meditate, walks, playing sports or spend some time in nature to maintain optimal health. Such activities are stress busters and help you keep your cool through thick and thin. It is imperative that you stay calm and stress free for a successful run towards JEE Advanced.

Retrospect your day
After each day, spend some time to retrospect on our achievements and challenges faced during the day. For example, answer questions such as ‘Where did you waste your time most? How can you optimise your time better? Did you achieve your plan for the day? If not, what are the areas where you wish to improve? Analyzing your day will keep your preparation in check and also ensure that you
improve each day.

Follow these strategies and you will realize how preparing for JEE Advanced is one of the most rewarding experiences in your life. Remember, a determined mind and strong will can positively open up a lot of avenues for you today and also in the future.

By: Ramesh Batlish
The writer is head FITJEE, Noida