Understanding the IIT JEE Exam

Format of the Exam

The IIT JEE is divided into two parts: JEE Main and JEE Advanced.

• JEE Main: It is the first stage and consists of two papers: Paper 1 for B.E./B.Tech and Paper 2 for B.Arch/B.Planning. Paper 1 includes multiple-choice and numerical answer-type questions from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
• JEE Advanced: Only those who clear the JEE Main are eligible for JEE Advanced. This exam is more rigorous and includes two papers, each with questions from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. The questions test not only knowledge but also comprehension, reasoning, and analytical ability.

My Preparation Strategies

Self-Study: The Key to Success

Given the financial constraints, I couldn’t afford coaching classes during my drop year. Instead, I relied entirely on self-study. Here’s how I structured my preparation:

• Utilizing Free Resources: I made extensive use of free online resources, including YouTube tutorials, free mock tests, and educational websites like Khan Academy and NPTEL.
• Daily Schedule: I created a disciplined daily routine, balancing my study hours, revision sessions, and practice tests.
• Library and School Resources: I frequently visited the local library and used school textbooks and reference materials.

The journey to clearing one of the most challenging entrance exams in India, the IIT JEE, is never easy. For me, it was a path filled with determination, hard work, and learning from failures. Here’s my story of perseverance and triumph, coming from a humble background and overcoming financial constraints.