As the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET UG) 2024 approaches, aspiring medical students across India are gearing up to tackle one of the most challenging entrance exams. The NEET UG 2024 exam will evaluate a candidates' grasp of the four subjects of the exam – Physics, Chemistry, Botany and Zoology. Consisting entirely of multiple choice questions (MCQs), it will have a total of 200 questions carrying 720 marks.
Understanding the nuances and preparing strategically for Physics can significantly enhance one’s overall performance. To help our readers navigate this maze competently, The Telegraph Online Edugraph caught up with Bishwajit Barnwal, affectionately known as BB Sir – a veteran educator with over 14 years of experience in guiding aspirants through the toughest competitive exams.
What are the key topics?
BB Sir emphasised that while all chapters are important, “many questions are asked from short chapters, namely, Units and Measurement, Kinematics, Kinetic Theory of Gases, Thermodynamics, Atoms, Nuclei, Dual Nature and Semiconductors.” He stressed that with strategic preparation in these chapters aspirants can score high with very little effort.
How to effectively manage time?
Efficient time management can make or break one's performance in the exam. BB Sir clarified, “Of the 50 questions, one should first spot and solve the 30-35 questions which would be one liners and attempt the time consuming questions later. Once they have finished 30 questions in 30 minutes, one’s confidence will be bolstered.”
How to strengthen understanding of fundamental concepts?
The foundation of success in Physics lies in conceptual clarity. “For example, one does not need to memorise any physical quantities dimensional formula. One merely needs to know the formula relating a derived quantity to other fundamental quantities, using which the dimensions can easily be found.”
How to combat common misconceptions?
BB Sir pointed out two distinct misconceptions. “Students often think that knowing a formula is enough. But unlike other subjects, in Physics, all chapters are interrelated. For example, if one’s understanding of the Laws of Motion is weak, one will struggle in answering from Work, Power & Energy. Further, students tend to assume that they will be able to score without any prior practice.” He summed up that holistic comprehension and consistent practice reign supreme in Physics.
What should be the overarching study strategies or exam-taking approaches?
As exam day looms closer, apprehension may cloud the aspirants' minds. BB Sir offered sage advice, “Firstly, know that not all questions are to be attempted. Let go of time-consuming questions. Secondly, don’t enter the exam centre with the preconceived notion that the Physics subject section will be difficult. Thirdly, stick to the subject wise time allocation. Physics, Chemistry and Biology should be allotted 60 minutes, 40-45 minutes and 40-45 minutes, respectively. Finally, practise underlining key question data – what to find, what not to find. This will eliminate silly errors.”
How to manage exam stress?
BB Sir reassured the students that feeling unprepared is natural, but having trust in one’s preparation is vital! He suggested, “One should practise taking mock tests designed as per the NEET pattern daily for the last 1 month in the actual exam time slot, i.e, 2-5.20PM – this will adjust one’s body cycle to the real exam time.” Moreover, analysing mistakes gradually diminishes anxiety and enhances one’s confidence.
As it emerged from our conversation, mastering the Physics subject section of NEET (UG) 2024 requires a combination of strategic factors. By following the insights shared by an expert like BB Sir and adopting a disciplined approach, students can maximise their chances of success in this examination. Hence, The Telegraph Online Edugraph urges the aspirants to gear up, stay focused, and crack the formidable exam with elan!
