JOIN USAlthough there’s much confusion regarding NEET, it is going to take off next year. Aakash Chaudhry gives you instructions on taking this exam.
With continuous updates and alterations in notifications regarding the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET 2013), medical aspirants are gradually falling into a swirl of confusion and apprehension in terms of how to go about their preparations for the same.
Alterations regarding participation of States, issues of vernacular languages and lack of time for preparation, are making it very difficult for aspirants. Thankfully the real picture is not as bad as it seems.
Origin of NEET
The introduction of NEET in 2013 will scrap all State level medical entrance tests and the All-India PMT exam. The debate over how many States will participate is a hot topic in all newspapers. In actuality, most States have agreed to participate in this common entrance exam from 2013 onwards.
A total of 271 MBBS colleges have been listed by MCI, which will fall under the aegis of NEET 2013. These colleges will offer a total of 31,000 MBBS seats across India. The declared date for NEET 2013 is May 5 and the exam will be conducted by CBSE.
However, institutes of national repute like AIIMS have declined to join NEET, in order to maintain their high standards. In terms of governance, central government funded institutions have their own sets of rules and regulations and they do not wish to be part of a common CET.
The NEET syllabus was decided after reviewing various State board syllabi and those prepared by the CBSE, COBSE and NCERT, considering the significance of various fields covered within medical education.
No doubt, with this notification, students will have to revamp their approach to exam preparation, as, along with the concept, a new syllabus has also come into the picture. This however, can easily be followed with a strategic approach and proper planning for the exam.
And it’s not just about the aspirants; every organisation in the education sector will have to gear up for NEET — making it one of the most fruitful decisions in the history of Indian education.
Preparing for NEET
First of all, you should be completely aware of the changed pattern to implement a proper plan of action. So, let us have a look at the revised pattern before we go ahead with the formula to crack it.
Until last year, the All India Pre-Medical Test (AIPMT) had 200 questions in total, with 50 questions each in Physics, Chemistry, Botany and Zoology. The exam was of three hours’ duration, with 1/4th negative marking.
As compared to AIPMT, NEET will have a total of 45 questions each in Physics, Chemistry, Botany and Zoology, totaling 180 questions. The paper will be of three hours and will carry 1/4th negative marking.
Now, let’s get the right formula set to ensure that your long cherished dream of becoming a doctor is fulfilled. Here are a few ways to help you out towards better preparation:
*As the exam is being conducted by the CBSE, a thorough reading of NCERT books is a must. The content of NCERT books should be read completely and figures given should be understood minutely. Solve the exercises given in the NCERT books.
*You will have to answer 180 questions in three hours, so take mock tests in order to learn time management. A student will be required to solve each question in a minute’s time, so regular practice of at least 15-20 full length tests before taking the actual exam will prove beneficial.
*There are some differences in the CBSE syllabus of Class XI and XII compared to NEET. Do a close comparison of the syllabi.
*Going through the previous year’s AIPMT exam papers will help, as NEET is expected to be of the same difficulty level.
Also, the right dose of mental guidance is of utmost importance for students. A positive attitude and a calm disposition will definitely help you develop a stress free study environment. Panicking is never a solution; it just hampers the aspirant’s overall performance. So, let go of your worries and adopt a practical stance. React wisely to the amendments not just today, but also in the future.
The good news is that players in the education industry have come up with strategies to make NEET easier for the aspirants. For example, The Karnataka Examinations Authority has planned to hold a capacity-building programme to prepare students for NEET 2013.
(The writer is Director, Aakash Educational Services.)