NEET UG 2024: Expert tips, chapters for Biology, Chemistry, Physics

Mastering Biology

Biology, which encompasses Botany and Zoology, holds the key to securing up to 50 per cent of the total marks in NEET, making it a crucial subject to master. While rote learning plays a pivotal role here, don’t overlook the significance of concept, application and interpretation of the NCERT passages.

Follow a well-structured-plan:

— Begin with a thorough reading and revision of the NCERT biology book.

— Prioritise reading all the questions in Section B before selecting the 10 questions in which you feel confident.

— Approach ‘assertion-reason’ questions with an open mind; they may not be as difficult as they seem.

— Aim to complete Biology in 45-50 minutes in the mock tests.

Important chapters in Biology

Bear in mind that lengthy questions, such as those involving statements or matching columns, might initially appear daunting but frequently conceal simple solutions. However, certain chapters, such as Human Reproduction and Biotechnology: Principles and Processes, may appear deceptively straightforward but frequently yield perplexing questions. Other topics, such as Molecular Basis of Inheritance and Principles of Inheritance and Variation, require multiple revisions.

Mastering Chemistry

Chemistry encompasses Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Inorganic Chemistry. Performing well in this subject, accounting for a significant portion (25 per cent) of the total marks in NEET, might become your trump card to secure a coveted seat in a prestigious medical institution. To excel in this subject, categorise topics based on their difficulty level and allocate your attention accordingly.

A tried-and-tested approach:

— Begin with a meticulous study of the NCERT book, as questions often resemble those given in it.

— Rote learning can help you score high in Inorganic Chemistry.

— Memorise formulas and equations.

— Create a formula chart for easy reference.

— Practice solving numerical problems regularly.

Important chapters in Chemistry

Mastering Physics

Physics, often considered the most formidable among the subjects, demands a methodical approach to overcome its challenges.

Strategy for Physics

— Enumerate all topics according to their weightage.

— Select appropriate study materials, including NCERT, exemplars, and Concepts of Physics by H. C. Verma (Vol. I & II). Avoid reading multiple books for a single topic and always choose the trusted sources only.

— Mark the important questions, especially in Mechanics and Electromagnetism. It will help you during revision.

— Grasp the fundamental ideas and concepts before grinding away the formulas.

Important chapters in Physics

Some extra tips

Being organised

Organise your study schedule into dedicated time slots for each subject, encompassing Physics, Chemistry, Botany, and Zoology. Allocate additional time to the more challenging subjects and topics, while ensuring ample time for revision and regular tests. Establish pragmatic daily, weekly, and monthly study objectives. Monitor your progress and adapt your goals as necessary to stay on track. Abide by your schedule diligently and adhere to deadlines unfailingly.

Identifying weaknesses

Identify weak areas and strengthen them by solving problems through multiple approaches. Do not exempt any chapter or topic from your study plan.

Rigorous practice and consistency

Regularly engage yourself in full-length mock tests that simulate the real NEET exam conditions. This practice will help you develop the right mindset for the exam, and improve your speed and accuracy.

Include the questions of the previous years in your tests and integrate concepts from different chapters while practising questions. Remember that when you fully grasp the language of a question, half the task is done.

Pay attention to keywords like “do not,” “incorrect/correct,” and “true/false” in questions. Push yourself to explain why wrong choices are wrong for flawless elimination before choosing the correct one. When faced with questions that have several seemingly correct responses, opt for the most suitable option. During tests, make use of rough papers to jot down formulas and solutions briefly to improve clarity.

Reading NCERT

A majority of NEET questions — more than 90 per cent — follow the language written in the NCERT books verbatim. Hence, while reading them you must underline, encircle, or highlight important keywords and sentences to aid retention. Write key points in the margins and add additional notes while practising previous-year questions. Also, avoid starting your preparation with those chapters from where questions haven’t been asked in the last few years.

Take a breather

The uphill journey to crack NEET and achieve your dream of becoming a medical professional requires unwavering dedication, razor-sharp focus, and meticulous planning, which is unquestionably both gratifying and taxing. Therefore, it becomes imperative to strike a harmonious balance between your study routine and personal well being. By taking care of your body and mind, achieved through regular exercise, ample rest, and a nourishing diet, you not only enhance your overall preparedness but also pave the way for effective studying and sustained excellence.

(The author is National Academic Director (Medical), Aakash BYJU’S)