Stick to studying from NCERT, advises NEET aspirant

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is one of India’s most competitive medical entrance examinations, offering aspiring doctors a gateway to prestigious medical and dental colleges across the country. Held annually, NEET tests students on Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, requiring thorough preparation, discipline, and determination. With lakhs of students vying for limited seats, the exam demands both academic excellence and mental resilience.

In this interview, Pavani Trehan, a Class XII student at Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, shares insights about her strategy and aspirations.

Are you preparing for the NEET exam? What has your journey been like?

Yes, I am preparing for NEET. I decided to pursue it when I was in Class X. I rely on NCERT textbooks for my preparation, as the NEET syllabus is largely based on them. I solve questions from different modules and sample papers that are available. The teachers at the school have also been very helpful, especially during difficult times.

Is there a personal reason behind your decision to pursue medicine? 

Yes, both my parents are doctors. My mother is a Gynaecologist, and my father is an MD in Medicine. I’ve always been inspired by them. I want to follow a similar path and become an MD in Medicine myself.

What draws you to the field of medicine? 

I’ve always been fascinated by how the human body works, and I like learning about diseases and treatments. More than that, I want to be able to help people recover and lead better lives. That’s something I find very meaningful.

Do you plan to pursue your MD in India or abroad? 

I prefer India. I feel India has excellent opportunities and scope in the medical field. Studying here will also keep me closer to my family and mentors.

Did you find the Class X Boards stressful? And will it be the same for Class XII? 

To be honest, yes — initially. There’s so much hype around boards that it feels overwhelming. But when I gave the exams, it didn’t feel as scary. Our school conducts two pre-Board exams, so we were well prepared. For me, it felt like just another final exam. So, preparing for the Class XII Boards is not going to be riddled with anxiety.

What advice would you give to students who are preparing for NEET? 

Stick to NCERT. Many students jump to reference books and ignore NCERT, but that’s a mistake. NCERT covers all the key concepts. You can do extra examples from other books, but your foundation must come from NCERT.