The NEET-PG 2023 examination is right around the corner. The competition is fierce, and there can be no end to preparing thoroughly. Last year, over 1.8 lakh students appeared for the exam, now with only a few days left, it is crucial to not let the ball drop. So, hang in there till it’s over. In this article, we will discuss a few last-minute strategies to help you feel more confident. Let’s get started.?
- Solve previous years’ papers: If you haven’t until now, then this is your final chance. Previous year papers
are an excellent way to gauge the preparation level. Students should try to solve atleast last 5 years’ papers before the exam. Solving papers will help you get an idea of the type of questions asked in the exam and the level of difficulty, as well as boost your confidence level for the upcoming exam. If possible, time your papers to have a better idea on which sections tend to be more time consuming for you.
- Practice time management: The exam is will be carried out in 3 hours and 30 minutes, however when you are in it, time would start fleeting. At least one time in a day every day till the exam, take mock tests with a goal of finishing in three hours rather than 3.5 hours. Even in subject wise preparation, make a habit of setting a time limit for each topic and try to complete it within the given time. This will help you manage your time effectively during the exam.?
- Revise MCQs: Students should revise as many MCQs as possible in the last few days before the exam. Revising MCQs will help you identify your weak areas and work on them. Also, revising MCQs will help you develop a time management strategy and increase your speed.??
- Take mock tests: Taking mock tests is a brilliant way to simulate the real exam environment. Students should take mock tests in the last few days before the exam to get a feel of the actual exam. Mock tests will help you assess your knowledge, give you an idea of the topics that require more attention, and develop a time management strategy.?
- Practice image-based questions: The NEET-PG 2023 exam is likely to also have image-based questions, like previous years’ pattern. These questions require one to interpret images, graphs, and charts. If you get better at it, you can save time by taking on these questions initially and guaranteeing some score, then proceed to the other ones. Thus, it is essential to focus on image-based questions and practice interpreting various types of images.?
- Brush up on your strengths: Now is the time to focus on the subjects which you consider to be your strengths, rather than subjects which you may find difficult. Given the negative marking, an important part of the exam strategy would be to answer everything confidently as for every correct answer, four marks will be awarded, whereas for every incorrect answer, one mark is going to be deducted. (Source: Official Information Bulletin by the NBE)?
The table below is an estimated break-up of the subjects and last three years question distribution pattern. It will give you an idea on maximum number of questions per subject, so you can mentally plan accordingly.
- Prioritize high-yielding topics: A keen revision of the previous years’ papers will give you an idea on the high-yielding topics. In the last few days before the exam, it is essential to focus on these topics which have a high probability of being asked in the exam. Students should revise these topics thoroughly and practice MCQs related to them.?
- Analyze your performance: After solving the previous years’ papers, and taking mock tests, it is essential to analyze your performance. This will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. It will also help you develop a strategy for the exam day. You should analyze the questions you got right and the ones you got wrong and also identify the topics that you need to work on.?
- Use mnemonics and memory aids: Preparing for NEET-PG
requires you to memorize a lot of information. Mnemonics and memory aids can help you remember important points and topics. You can create your own mnemonics – remember – the funnier, and the more personally relatable the mnemonics are – the easier it will be to remember. The faculty will also be discussing mnemonics and memory aids with you from time to time, even the text books and review books will carry some.?
- Set realistic goals: Not only for last few days, but this is for the rest of your life. It is important to set realistic goals for yourself and work towards achieving them. A realistic goal should be achievable and should not be too intimidating. Once you have set your target, create a study plan that incorporates all the relevant topics and subjects according to their importance. This will help you to stay motivated and will also help you to track your progress.?
- Avoid last-minute cramming: This can increase your stress levels and affect your performance. Make sure you have revised all the important topics and have a good understanding of the concepts. Stay calm and confident and trust your preparation.?
- Stay updated: It is essential to stay updated with the latest medical news and developments during your NEET-PG exam preparation. Something you should prioritize round the year, but in the last few days, make sure you are updated about the latest news and information related to NEET-PG 2023.??
- Seek help when needed: Preparing for NEET-PG can be challenging, and it is essential to seek help when needed. You can approach your teachers or mentors for guidance and support. You can also join online forums or study groups to interact with other medical students and clear your doubts.?
- Collaborate with peers: Collaborating with peers can be an effective way to prepare for NEET-PG. Group study sessions can help you clarify concepts, discuss challenging topics, and share study materials. Collaborating with peers can also help you reduce exam anxiety and increase motivation. You can form study groups with classmates or connect with other medical graduates preparing for NEET-PG through online forums and social media groups. Collaborating with peers can also help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and tailor your preparation strategy accordingly.?
- Stay healthy: In the last few days before the exam, it is essential to take care of your health. Students should eat a healthy and balanced diet and avoid junk food. Also, students should try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night. Getting enough rest is essential for the brain to function properly.?
- Stay positive: Staying positive is crucial in the last few days before the exam. Students should avoid stress and anxiety and stay positive. You should believe in your preparation and yourself. Staying positive will help you stay motivated and focused.?
- Do not start anything new: In the last few days before the exam, students should not start anything new. You should not try to learn new concepts or start a new topic. Starting anything new will only add to the stress and confusion. Instead, students should focus on reviewing and consolidating their existing knowledge. This includes going through the notes, revising important formulae, and practicing past papers. This will help you feel more confident and prepared for the exam. Additionally, you can use the last few days to develop a solid exam strategy. You can figure out how much time you want to spend on each section, which questions to attempt first, and how to manage your time effectively. This will help you approach the exam with a clear and calm mind, and maximize your chances of performing well.?
- Take breaks and hydrate yourself: Students should not study continuously and take breaks in between. You should indulge in activities that help you relax, such as listening to music, playing a sport, or watching a movie. Also, important to stay hydrated all the time as it will directly impact your overall health right before the exam.?
- Be well-equipped for the exam day: On the day of the exam, make sure you are well-equipped and have all the necessary documents. Carry your admit card, ID proof, and essentials. Reach the exam center well in advance and avoid any last-minute rush.?
Few things you can do to channelize your inner strength and ease anxiety are as follows:??
- Practice meditation or deep breathing exercises to help calm your mind and reduce stress.?
- Stay away from social media and other distractions that can consume your time and energy.?
- Stay organized and keep your study materials in one place to avoid wasting time searching for them.?
- Make a list of all the formulae and concepts that you need to remember and revise them frequently.?
- Try to stay away from negative influences and people who may demotivate you.?
It is essential to note that the strategies suggested above are a reference point and in no way should be taken as a substitute for consistent and disciplined preparation throughout the year. It is vital to have a solid foundation in the subjects and a good understanding of the concepts. Students should also make sure to manage their time effectively and create a study schedule that fits their needs. A good way to ensure that all the concepts are covered is to make a study plan and stick to it throughout the year. The study plan should allocate time for each subject and also for revisions and mock tests. Students should also try to make notes for each subject, which can help them with quick revisions later.?
It is important to remember that the NEET-PG exam is not about memorizing the concepts but about understanding and applying them. Therefore, you should try to solve as many practice questions as possible, which will help you to improve your problem-solving skills. The exam pattern for NEET-PG 2023
has undergone a revision, resulting in a reduction in the number of questions from 300 to 200 that need to be answered in 3.5 hours (as per the information bulletin by the NBE).?
The NEET-PG exam is a significant milestone for medical students in India. With only few days left for the exam, it is critical to focus on the key elements mentioned above. By staying disciplined and focused, and following the right tips and strategies, students can achieve their dreams of becoming successful specialists in fields of their choice.??
We hope that some of the strategies discussed above help you prepare well for the upcoming exam. All the best for your NexT big leap!???
