‘Solving previous year question papers is a must’

Kohana Dutta Choudhury from Apeejay School, Noida tops the NEET 2024 exam from her school by securing an exceptional score of 667.  The achiever says solving countless previous year papers along with the support from school has paved the way for her success. 

In a quick conversation with the budding doctor, we gain insights into her study cycle and preparation schedule. Read edited excerpts:

Kohana, what’s the secret behind this success?

A lot of dedication and hard work went behind this. I kept solving test series and continued with my preparation even after the CBSE Board exams. All throughout class 11 and 12, I was simultaneously preparing for the CBSE Board exam as well as the NEET exam. I read the NCERT textbooks thoroughly to have a strong base. 

How many hours of self-study did you put in?

Around 5-6 hours of self study daily. I would also focus on solving lots of previous year question papers daily.

That is so much hard work! So which subject was easy for you and which was a bit tough?

I loved Biology, as I have a good memory and could easily commit to mind the concepts and names. But Physics was tough for me, as I had to put in extra efforts into it until the subject became a strength.

And how did the school teachers support you?

My school teachers helped me throughout all the phases of  exam preparation. They guided me so much. I asked them my queries and they were always there for me and all other students. My class teacher gave us many motivational lectures and that also gave us much confidence.

How did you manage exam stress?

My parents were my biggest support system whenever I faced any trouble or stress. My mother especially was my pillar of strength and support. My parents are themselves doctors and so they knew very well how to guide me in these times. They understood me and encouraged me through my dull times.

I used to take a break for a day or two whenever it got overwhelming. I would talk to my friends and they motivated me. Then I took part in the school events like teachers day and annual day, these were great stress busters for me.

So, what is the next step in your career?

I aim to become a good doctor one day, serving humanity. I have not chosen the field yet but I am sure it will come to me soon as I get initiated into my MBBS journey.