Physics isn’t the
monster it’s made out to be. In fact, once you understand its logic, it can become your strongest
scoring subject (Image: AI Generated)–Vinod Kumawat
Every year, over 20 lakh students appear for the NEET (UG) examination with one dream — to wear the white coat. Among the three pillars of NEET, namely Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, Physics often becomes the subject that students fear the most. I have seen that anxiety many times in my classroom: the sighs when numerical problems appear, the hesitation before attempting a new concept, and the sense of defeat before even beginning.
But let me tell you something from years of teaching and mentoring students for NEET, Physics isn’t the monster it’s made out to be. In fact, once you understand its logic, it can become your strongest scoring subject. The secret lies in three things: conceptual clarity, consistent practice, and a calm mind.
In NEET (UG), Physics carries 45 questions with a total of 180 marks. While Biology has a greater share with 360 marks, Physics often decides whether a student will be among the top rankers.
Biology largely depends on memorisation, while Physics tests understanding and application. It demands reasoning, connection between ideas, and a clear thought process. These qualities form the foundation of a doctor.
Physics teaches discipline, sharpens analytical ability, and prepares students to handle uncertainty. In many ways, the challenges of Physics resemble those faced in medical practice.
Over the years, I have observed that top-performing students in NEET do not necessarily study for long hours. Instead, they study in a structured and efficient way. The following approach can help any student achieve similar results.
Build Conceptual Depth — Not Surface Understanding
Begin each topic with your NCERT textbook. Read the definitions, formulas, and derivations carefully. Don’t rush. If a concept feels unclear, seek clarification immediately from your teacher, a friend, or even a trusted online source. Most NEET Physics questions are rooted in these basic principles, not in obscure trick questions.
Relate Physics to Everyday Life
Physics isn’t confined to equations on paper; it is everywhere around you. The friction that keeps your shoes from slipping, the refraction that bends a pencil in water, or the circuits behind your home’s light switches all of these are Physics in action. When you start connecting theory with real experiences, retention improves naturally.
Maintain Formula Sheets and Notes
Create a dedicated formula sheet for every chapter. Include key equations, laws, exceptions, and typical errors. When revision time comes, this sheet will be your best friend.
Practice — Every Single Day
There is only one way to truly master Physics: practice. Start with basic problems to strengthen your fundamentals. Gradually move to mixed-concept and application-based questions. Daily problem-solving builds both speed and confidence — two assets you’ll need in the exam hall.
Revisit Previous Year’s Papers
Past NEET papers are a goldmine. They reveal patterns, frequently tested concepts, and the level of difficulty you can expect. Solve them within time limits to simulate the real test environment.
Take Mock Tests Seriously
Mocks are not just practice; they’re dress rehearsals for the big day. Use them to improve time management and mental composure. Analyse your mistakes and identify weak areas because that’s where your next round of preparation should focus.
Physics problems are like puzzles — they reward patience and strategy. Here’s how to approach them smartly:
–Understand before applying. Don’t jump to plug in formulas. First, identify which principle applies.
–Visualise. Draw a diagram if needed. Mechanics, optics, and electromagnetism become much clearer when you can see the problem.
–Check dimensions. A quick dimensional analysis can save you from silly errors.
–Estimate results. If your answer seems too high or too low, it probably is. Recheck.
These habits may sound small, but they make a big difference in accuracy, and that’s what adds up in NEET.
The NEET examination not only tests knowledge but also composure and time management. Keep the following points in mind during the Physics section:
–Spend no more than one and a half minutes on each question during the first attempt.
–Mark difficult questions and revisit them later.
–Use logical shortcuts wherever applicable.
–Avoid guesswork because of negative marking.
–Stay calm; nervousness often leads to mistakes in simple questions.
Many students prepare sincerely for months, even years, yet on the day of the exam, they fall short of their potential. The reason is seldom a lack of effort; it is often the stress and anxiety carried into the examination hall.
Mental balance is just as important as preparation. Take short breaks while studying, stay physically active, meditate for a few minutes, and ensure proper rest before the exam.
Success in Physics does not come from shortcuts or luck. It comes from clarity of concepts, steady practice, and composure under pressure. View Physics not as an obstacle but as an opportunity to sharpen reasoning, build discipline, and strengthen resilience.
When you truly understand Physics, it does not just help you score marks — it helps you think like a problem solver. And remember that the path to success in Physics passes through hard work, understanding, and composure.
Kumawat is an expert in Physics at the ALLEN Career Institute Pvt Ltd, Kota


