As I sit here, reflecting on my experience with the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Mains, a whirlwind of emotions rushes me. This exam is a rite of passage for countless aspiring engineers in India, and for me, it was a journey filled with challenges and self-discovery.
The preparation of JEE-Mains began before the exam date. It was a grueling process that tested me, both academically and mentally. I spent countless hours poring over textbooks, solving practice problems, and refining my strategies. As I stepped into the examination hall, a sense of nervous anticipation gripped me. The 3-hour window seemed to fly by, as I meticulously tackled each question, drawing upon the knowledge and skills I had cultivated over the past months. I cleared the one with an 89 percentile.
Exam Format
The one with exam is a computer-based test (CBT) conducted in multiple sessions. For B.E/B.Tech aspiring students :
- This paper tests the candidate’s knowledge in physics, chemistry, and mathematics.
- The paper consists of a total of 90 questions, with 30 questions in each subject, from which 75 questions are to be answered (25 from each subject).
- The duration of the exam is 3 hours.
- The type of questions includes 60 MCQs (having 4 options each with 1 correct option) + 30 questions (for which the answer is a Numerical Value)(15 questions to be attempted).
- For MCQs: +4 for each correct response; -1 for each incorrect response, un-attempted questions will not be marked.
- For Non-MMQs: +4 for each correct response, no negative marking for incorrect answers or un-attempted questions.
Effective Preparation Strategies
Create a structured study plan
- Allocate time for each subject based on your strengths and weaknesses.
- Set every day goals and regularly review your progress to stay on track.
Develop a solid foundation of Basics
- Start by strengthening your conceptual understanding of the core subjects- Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Thoroughly revise the NCERT textbooks.
- Practice numerous problems and exercises to enhance your knowledge.
Practice Mock tests and Previous year’s Papers
- Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, question types, and time management by solving previous year’s question papers.
- Take regular mock tests under exam-like conditions to identify and address your weaknesses.
- Analyze your performance and work on improving your speed and accuracy.
Stay Motivated and Manage Stress
- Maintain a positive mindset and stay motivated throughout your preparation.
- Maintain a healthy work-life balance.
- Seek guidance and support from your mentors and teachers, or peers to help you stay focused and motivated.
When preparing for competitive exams, it is essential to follow certain Do’s and Don’ts to maximize your chances of success.
Do’s
Manage time efficiently : Practice time management techniques during mock tests and previous years papers.
Practice regularly : Solve a wide range of practice questions (previous years papers and mock tests) to improve your speed and accuracy.
Enhance problem solving skills : Develop critical thinking and analytical abilities to tackle complex problems. Engage and discussions, online forums and competitions to sharpen your problem solving skills.
Don’ts
Don’t neglect weak areas : Identify your weaknesses and allocate sufficient time to improve in those areas.
Don’t rely on shortcut : Avoid relying on shortcuts or memorizing formulas without understanding the underline concepts, develop a good understanding for the topics.
Don’t neglect your health and well-being : Ensure you get adequate sleep, nutrition and exercise to maintain physical and mental well-being. Avoid burn-out by taking regular brakes and practicing stress management techniques.