JEE Main Preparation and Exam Experience 7

Getting into the NITs, the most sought-after engineering institutes in India after the IITs is the dream of lakhs of JEE(Main) aspirants. Only the best get the opportunity to study in these renowned institutes with the finest faculty, excellent infrastructure, and a mesmerizing campus.

I was one of the many students preparing for the JEE(Main) exam in 2013, aspiring to gain admission to the Electronics & Communication Engineering Department in one of the top NITs. The JEE is a rigorous test that examines quick comprehension ability, problem-solving skills, time management, and deep conceptual clarity in physics, chemistry, and mathematics. Considering these factors, I studied for 2+ years before appearing for this arduous exam. I successfully cleared it with a score of 184/360, which opened the gates of my dream college for me. Below are a few strategies and resources that might be helpful for someone aspiring to get into the prestigious NITs.

Getting into a Coaching Institute

Before commencing this tough yet exciting journey, choosing a coaching institute is crucial. I enrolled in Concept Educations, which offered a structured plan with experienced faculty. The institute provided regular exams and numerous DPPs (Daily Practice Problems) that played a significant role in helping me reach my goal. A coaching institute aids in the timely completion of the syllabus and follows the learn-test-revise strategy. Regular tests conducted by coaching institutes help in getting used to the time pressure during exams, building exam temperament, and training oneself to stay focused for 3 hours.

Exam Pattern

Understanding the exam pattern is key to success. Here’s a comparison of the JEE Main format from my time in 2013 and the current format in 2024:

JEE Main 2013 Overview

Exam Mode: Offline (Pen and Paper)

Duration: 3 hours

Sections: Physics, Chemistry, Maths

Total Questions: 90 (30 per section)

Total Marks: 360 (120 per section)

Question Type: MCQs

Marking Scheme:

Correct Answer: +4 marks

Incorrect Answer: -1 mark

JEE Main 2024 Overview

Physics:

Section A: 20 MCQs (20 can be attempted)

Section B: 10 Numerical Value Questions (5 can be attempted)

Chemistry:

Section A: 20 MCQs (20 can be attempted)

Section B: 10 Numerical Value Questions (5 can be attempted)

Maths:

Section A: 20 MCQs (20 can be attempted)

Section B: 10 Numerical Value Questions (5 can be attempted)

Total Questions: 90 (75 can be attempted)

Total Marks: 300

Marking Scheme:

Correct Answer: +4 marks

Incorrect Answer: -1 mark

Daily Study Routine

Regular studying is crucial for completing the vast syllabus. A strict timetable is necessary. Avoiding distractions like social media, television, and OTT platforms will provide ample time for studying. Include 30 to 45 minutes of exercise and around 7 hours of sleep in your schedule to stay healthy and efficient.

My Routine:

Morning:

2 to 3 hours of study

Exercise

Daytime:

Attend coaching classes

Revisit topics covered in lectures

Evening:

Plan the next day’s study schedule

Useful Resources and Preparation Strategy

Mathematics

Mathematics is the toughest part of the JEE exam. Practicing questions is crucial.

Physics

Physics is a scoring section. Key resources include:

NCERT textbooks for Class XI & XII

Concepts of Physics by HC Verma

High-weightage topics: Alternating Current, Current Electricity, Magnetic Effects of Current, Modern Physics, Semiconductors, Communication Systems, Thermodynamics, Units and Dimensions, Laws of Motion, Rotational Motion.

Chemistry

Chemistry is the most scoring section, but you need to study and learn how to memorize and remember well.

High-weightage topics: Chemistry in Everyday Life, Polymers, Biomolecules, Surface Chemistry, Aldehydes and Ketones, General Organic Chemistry, Hydrocarbons, Chemical Kinetics, S Block Elements, P Block Elements, Metallurgy, Electrochemistry, Thermodynamics.

Revision Plan

Revise the entire syllabus at least twice before the exam. Create a revision plan and stick to it. In the first round of revision, cover all topics. In the second round, focus more on weaker areas. Start solving mock tests and previous years’ papers two months before the exam. Track your scores and time spent on each section and try to improve with each attempt.

The Exam Day

A day or two before the exam, don’t stress yourself. Rest well and eat appropriately. Don’t worry about the results. Revisit your strategy, meditate, and stay calm. During the exam, read the instructions and questions carefully. Solve each question with a fresh mind and believe in the power of hard work and perseverance.

Conclusion

Remember that your hard work will pay off. Stay focused, follow your study plan, and maintain a positive attitude. Best of luck to all the JEE aspirants