National Eligibility Cum Entrance Test (NEET) is a highly competitive exam that opens various opportunities for students in the medical field. Every year a large number of students apply for NEET, but unfortunately only a small percentage of students get admission in top medical colleges across India. Cracking NEET in first attempt can be difficult but not at all impossible. It only requires hardwork, dedication, smart strategy, proper planning and consistency. This guide is helpful for students who wants to pursue their career in the medical field.
About NEET Examination
- Mode and Duration: It is conducted in offline mode (pen and paper). The total duration for completing the overall exam is 3 hours 20 minutes.
- Subjects Covered: NEET exam covers 3 main subjects, i.e., Physics, Chemistry and Biology (PCB).
- Total Questions: All the questions are objective type (MCQ) in which total questions are 200 out of which 180 to be attempted.
- Marking scheme: In marking scheme, (+4) marks are for correct answer, (-1) for an incorrect answer and 0 mark for unattempted answer.
- Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for applying for NEET, the minimum age required is 17 years. There is no upper age limit. Students must be passed in class 12 with subjects Physics, Chemistry and Biology from any affiliated board.
- Number of Attempts: Students can give multiple number of attempts for cracking NEET Exam.
- Best Books: Books recommended for preparation of NEET exam are NCERT textbooks (Class 11 and Class 12), Reference Book and Practice Book.
- Qualifying Marks: Different categories have different criteria of minimum marks required to qualify NEET Exam. Here is a glance.
| Category | Qualifying Marks | Marks Range |
|---|---|---|
| General | 50th Percentile | 715-213 |
| OBC/ SC/ ST | 40th Percentile | 212- 177 |
| General – PWd | 45th Percentile | 212- 194 |
| OBC/ SC/ ST – PWd | 40th Percentile | 193- 177 |
What is NEET?
National Eligibilty Cum Entrance Test (NEET) is conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA), which helps students get admission in various courses like MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BHMS, BSC Nursing, other medical and paramedical courses. It helps in ensuring fair and transparent selection process among the students.
Right Strategy to Crack NEET Exam
1. Understand Syllabus and Pattern:
Students get confused about the study material before doing preparation for competitive exams like NEET. Therefore, understanding syllabus and pattern helps students to prepare themselves in an effective manner. NEET exam includes three main subjects:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology – High Weightage Subject
This understanding helps students in avoiding unnecessary topics and saves much time.
2. Focus on NCERT Books:
NCERT books are the greatest supporters of students in cracking NEET exams as most of the questions come from NCERT textbooks, especially in Biology subject. Tips to focus on NCERT are:
- Read each line thoroughly.
- Make self- made notes of every chapter.
- Highlight key points, formulas and derivations etc.
- After completing every chapter, practice exercises.

3. Maintain a Proper Study Schedule:
A proper study schedule is necessary to remain focused and dedicated throughout the NEET journey. Students who want to become a doctor must maintain their study schedule effectively by following these tips:
- Study 7-8 hours daily.
- Divide equal time for every subject while giving some extra time to weaker subjects.
- Revise important topics regularly.
- Take 10-15 minutes after every 1-2 hours continuous study.
- Always take a short revision at the end of all the topics covered in a day.
4. Follow 80/20 Rule:
The 80/20 rule is based on Pareto Principle. It means that 80% of questions come from 20% of the syllabus and frequently asked topics. Therefore, following this rule helps students mastering in important topics and scoring high marks.
5. Practice Previous Year Questions (PYQ):
PYQ helps students in knowing the exam pattern and most frequent questions repeating. So, its important to practice last 10-30 years PYQ to know your preparation and improve your speed.
6. Take Mock Tests Regularly:
Mock tests are an essential element for NEET preparation. It helps in time management, identifying mistakes, evaluating performance as well as increasing chances of getting high NEET score.
7. Focus on Important Concepts:
Focusing on important concepts strongly helps students get well-prepared for the competitive exams. Different subjects (PCB) includes different concepts like:
- Physics– Practice important derivations, formulas and numericals.
- Chemistry– Includes two types of chemistry: Organic and Inorganic. Understand reactions, formulas and periodic table thoroughly.
- Biology– Learn theories, cycles, structures or diagrams.
8. Maintain a healthy lifestyle:
Students face a lot of issues throughout their preparation which overall impacts their physical and mental well- being. They should avoid unnecessary stress, overthinking, poor sleep and lack of physical activity. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can increase their concentration level, confidence, positivity and boost energy.
9. Stay Consistent:
Staying consistent plays an important role in cracking NEET exams. Students should avoid distractions and skipping their study schedule. Studying for few hours with focus and consistency is more effective than studying for long hours with irregularity. This helps students stay focused and achieve their goal.
Success in NEET is not a one day journey; it is always about being consistent, dedicated and confident throughout the preparation journey.

10. Avoid common mistakes:
Here are some common mistakes that students often do but that should be avoided:
- Ignoring NCERT Textbooks
- Not revising regularly
- Staying inconsistent towards study schedule
- Revising too many books
- Lack of practice of previous year questions and mock tests
- Not giving extra time to weaker subjects.
Cracking NEET demands hardwork, dedication, regular practice and smart strategy. Students who remain focused, follow a proper study schedule and adopt the right strategies can move one step closer to turning their dreams into reality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
What is the full form of NEET?
NEET stands for National Eligibility Cum Entrance Test.
-
Is it possible to crack NEET in first attempt?
Yes, it is possible. Many students crack NEET in first attempt with their hardwork, proper planning, right strategy and dedication.
-
Which is the right time to study for competitive exams (Day or Night)?
There is no fixed right time to study for competitive exams like NEET as it depends on various factors like concentration level, daily routine and energy. Students should choose time when they feel more focused and concentrated.
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