By Dr. Ruchir Bhavsar
The recent changes to the NEET SS 2024 exam pattern have created some confusion among aspirants, leading to concerns about how this might impact their preparation. However, there is no need to panic. The core strategy for preparation remains the same, and with a focused approach, you can navigate these changes effectively.
Let’s break down the modifications, address concerns, and outline an optimized study plan.
Understanding the New Exam Pattern
The NEET SS 2024 exam will now be divided into three sections, each containing 50 questions with a 50-minute time limit. Here’s how it will function:
- Section A (50 questions, 50 minutes) – You can answer and review these questions within the allotted time.
- Section B (50 questions, 50 minutes) – Once Section A ends, you cannot revisit it.
- Section C (50 questions, 50 minutes) – Once Section B ends, you move to Section C, after which the exam concludes.
Key Points to Remember:
- You cannot go back to previous sections once they are completed.
- The questions will be randomly distributed across all sections; there will be no topic-wise segregation.
- Your strategy should focus on maximizing your score within each section rather than planning for an overall 150-question approach.
Optimizing Your Time Management
With 50 questions per section and 50 minutes, you will get one minute per question. However, an effective approach requires balancing accuracy and revision.
Ideal Time Allocation:
- Solving Questions: Aim to attempt each question in 40 seconds.
- Review & Revision: Utilize the remaining 10-15 minutes to review marked questions.
This approach ensures that you complete all questions on time while allowing for a final review of the marked ones before the section ends.
How to Use the Timer Effectively:
- Keep an eye on the timer while solving each question.
- Move to the next question immediately if you exceed 40 seconds.
- Avoid excessive marking for review, as too many marked questions will leave you with little time for actual revisions.
How Many Questions Should You Attempt?
Your attempt strategy should depend on the difficulty level of the exam:
| Difficulty Level | Recommended Attempt per Section | Total Attempted Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Difficult | 44-46 questions | 132-138 questions |
| Moderate | 46-48 questions | 138-144 questions |
🔹 Key Strategy:
- Skip a maximum of 2-4 questions per section if you are unsure.
- If a section is difficult, do not panic—the next section might be easier.
- Do not attempt all 50 questions blindly—be selective and confident in your choices.
Mock Exams: Your Best Preparation Tool
Since this new pattern is time-bound, practicing under real exam conditions is crucial.
How to Adapt Your Mock Exam Strategy:
- Practice solving 50-question blocks in 50 minutes.
- Simulate real exam conditions—do not review questions after a section ends.
- If you have already completed mock exams, revise only your incorrect and bookmarked questions.
Which Mock Exams to Focus On?
- Preferably, attempt the National Mock Test if you haven’t yet.
- If you have already attempted mock exams, revisit only 1 or 2 to practice time management.
- Do not overdo full-length mocks in the last 10 days—focus on high-yield topics instead.
Final 10-Day Study Plan
With just a few days left for the exam, your preparation should focus on revision, retention, and strategy execution.
What to Focus On:
- Revise Bookmarked MCQs – Focus on the ones you got wrong or found difficult.
- Go Through Important Tables, Charts, and Images – These are high-yield areas.
- Review Key Theory Topics from Notes – Prioritize your weak areas.
- Time-Bound Practice of Sections – Adapt to the 50-minute section-wise approach.
- Maintain Confidence & Stay Stress-Free – Do not let minor doubts affect your focus.
🔹 What NOT to Do:
- Do not attempt to cover the entire question bank again.
- Do not start learning new topics at this stage.
- Do not waste time worrying about uncertainties like exam delays or last-minute notifications.
Final Words: Stay Confident & Focused
The change in pattern is only a structural modification, not a drastic content change. Your preparation method remains the same—only your execution needs adjustment.
🔹 Key Takeaways:
✔ Do not panic—focus on adapting to the new pattern.
✔ Manage time efficiently within each section.
✔ Practice with time-bound mock exams to refine your strategy.
✔ Revise smartly—prioritize high-yield topics and bookmarked questions.
✔ Stay calm, trust your preparation, and give your best effort.
Best of luck! You are well-prepared—now is the time for the final push! 🚀
