Follow your study strategy, shares NEET aspirant

Each year, over 20 lakh aspiring medical students across India appear for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), a highly competitive exam that determines admission to undergraduate medical and dental courses. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), NEET serves as a gateway to esteemed institutes across the country. With rigorous preparation, dedication, and focus, students aim to secure a place in the medical field, fulfilling their dreams of serving society through healthcare.

Pritha Majumder, a Class XII student at Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, is one such student. In a candid interview, she shares why she chose to study medicine.

What is your study strategy for NEET?

Last year, I did try coaching, but I realised it didn’t help my school syllabus. Most coaching centres focus only on NEET-level MCQs and tend to skip topics like derivations or theory, which are important for Boards. This year, I’ve decided to focus more on my school curriculum and self-study. I haven’t enrolled in coaching again.

Why did you choose medicine? Was there someone in your family who inspired you? 

No, no one in my immediate family is a doctor. I just felt strongly that I wanted to do something meaningful for society, and I believe the medical field gives me a path to do that. It was a personal decision.

Do you have a specific field of medicine in mind? 

Not at the moment. Right now, I’m focusing on clearing my Board exams and NEET. Once I’m in college, I’ll explore my options. It’s a step-by-step journey.

Which one do you enjoy the most? 

Biology! I think that’s the most common answer from a PCB student, but it’s true — it interests me the most.

What’s your study plan for Class XII board exams? 

I plan to stick with NCERT and solve a lot of sample papers, practice papers, and previous year question papers. My target is to complete the syllabus by September. I’ll continue with my goal-based approach — set targets and complete them consistently.

How do you plan to balance your board exam preparation with NEET preparation? 

My strategy is to first complete a chapter as per the Board syllabus. After that, I go over the extra content that’s needed for NEET. This way I don’t get overwhelmed. I strongly believe every student should find their study method. What works for one person might not work for another. I’ve always followed my strategy, not someone else’s.

Many students start preparing for NEET as early as Class IX or X. What are your thoughts on that?

If a student is aiming to crack NEET on the first attempt, preparation in Classes XI and XII is enough. But if someone is planning to take a drop year, then I would suggest focusing fully on Boards during school and preparing for NEET afterwards.