CUET UG 2024: Understand the syllabus, analyse exam pattern; follow this preparation plan

According to the National Testing Agency (NTA), this year, approximately 19.2 lakh candidates took the entrance test, marking a 100 per cent increase compared to last year’s 9.6 lakh. Moreover, over 1,000 students achieved perfect scores in political science, history, and accounting.

In this fiercely competitive landscape, the aspirants need to have a holistic approach towards preparing for this test, if they have to succeed in it. Here are some tips and tricks to prepare effectively and excel in the CUET UG 2024:

Understand the syllabus

Before embarking on the preparation journey, students should thoroughly review the CUET UG syllabus. Understanding the topics is essential for focused and efficient preparation. Students should create a checklist of subjects and sub-topics to guide their studies. It is expected that the NTA will not make any changes to the CUET 2024 syllabus. The domain-specific subjects syllabus will be the same as the NCERT syllabus, which includes:

• Section I – Language: Reading Comprehension based on different types of passages (Factual, Literary, and Narrative), Literary Aptitude, and Vocabulary

• Section II – Domain Subject: Class 12 Board Exam Syllabus of the Subject

• Section III – General Test: General Knowledge, Current Affairs, General Mental Ability, Numerical Ability, Quantitative Reasoning (Simple application of basic mathematical concepts arithmetic/algebra geometry/mensuration/stat taught till Grade 8), Logical and Analytical Reasoning

Analyse exam pattern

Candidates should be well acquainted with the CUET exam pattern before appearing for the exam. The CUET UG exam pattern consists of the following sections:

• Section IA – 13 Languages and Section IB – 19 Languages: 40 questions to be attempted out of 50 in each language, with 45 minutes for each language

• Section II – 27 Domain-specific subjects: 40 questions to be attempted out of 50, with 45 minutes for each Domain-Specific Subject

• Section III – General Test: 60 questions to be attempted out of 75, with a 60-minute duration

To get a deeper understanding of the exam pattern, students should examine previous years’ CUET UG papers and take note of the number of questions, time duration, and any format changes over the years. This insight will help students tailor their preparation strategy accordingly.

Invest in quality study material

It is essential for students to choose study materials wisely and invest in good-quality books that offer comprehensive coverage of CUET UG topics, such as books with a reputation for high-quality questions and explanations. Additionally, students should consider online resources, tutorials, and practice tests to supplement study material.

Implement a strategic study plan

By utilising digital learning platforms and modules, students can access high-quality study material, mock tests, and personalised learning experiences. A systematic study strategy that includes learning new topics, practising questions from study material, revising recently studied subjects, and regularly testing with mock exams is essential. This approach ensures well-rounded preparation and helps improve time management skills.

Create and follow a daily time table

A well-structured study timetable can be the roadmap to success for students preparing for the CUET exam. Creating a daily or weekly plan that specifies the number of chapters or topics to cover, the number of questions to solve, and the time allocated for each task, and then diligently sticking to it will ensure consistent progress. It is necessary to identify the difficult and unknown sections in the daily timetable, segregate them into strong and weak sections according to personal experience and weightage and make sure to revise them religiously to retain the gained knowledge on the examination day.

Set targets

Aspirants should divide the syllabus into short, achievable milestones. Assign specific topics or chapters to each milestone and work towards completing them within a time-boxed frame. After studying a chapter or topic, students should assess how much they can recall and how well they understand it, as part of the self-assessment. Further, celebrating achievements as they reach each milestone will help in staying motivated.

Make detailed notes

While studying, students should create organised and comprehensive notes. These notes will serve as valuable reference material during revision. Students must summarise key concepts, formulas, and important points in a concise and understandable format.

Maintain physical activity

Students shouldn’t underestimate the importance of physical fitness during preparation. They must engage in regular exercise, jogging, or sports to reduce stress and keep their mind and body in optimal condition. A healthy lifestyle contributes to better concentration and overall well-being.

Stay mentally active

To maintain a balanced approach, engaging in extracurricular activities, reading newspapers, and novels, or pursuing hobbies will not only help students relax their minds but also enhance their knowledge and creativity. This mental stimulation can be a refreshing boost to your exam preparation.

Preparing for the CUET UG exam demands dedication, discipline, and a well-thought-out strategy. By adhering to the insights shared in this guide, students can maximise their chances of success and secure admission to the university of their dreams. Remember that consistent effort, smart study techniques, and a balanced lifestyle will be the keys to taking the CUET UG exam.

(The writer is an author at Pearson India)