Study at a steady pace & avoid procrastination to crack JEE

In India, the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) is one of the most sought-after competitive exams for students aspiring to pursue engineering from prestigious institutions like the IITs and NITs. Known for its rigorous syllabus and high difficulty level, JEE attracts lakhs of students every year who dream of excelling in science and technology. The exam’s reputation, coupled with the promise of a rewarding career, drives students to begin their preparation early and compete at a national level.

Meet one such student, Rishit Srivastava of Class XII at Apeejay School, Noida, who is preparing for the JEE to pursue BTech. In a candid interview, he shares a success mantra for the exam.

What is your current study strategy for Class XII and JEE? 

I’m revising Class XI topics along with the Class XII syllabus. I make sure to keep practicing a few Class XI chapters regularly so that I don’t lose touch and can still solve questions from that portion. I also try to stay aligned with what’s being taught in school and balance it with JEE mock tests and problem-solving sessions at home.

What career path are you interested in? 

I’m interested in Machine Learning. That’s the field I want to pursue after Class XII. I am not sure which institute to choose. But I know that some IITs, like Hyderabad and Roorkee, offer good AI-related courses. These institutes also have strong research facilities and peer networks, which are important for this field.

Are you currently using or exploring AI? 

Yes, I have taken AI as an optional subject along with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, and Math). I like experimenting with programming and building projects like chatbots and image detection systems. For my Class XI AI project, I created an image detection model using Python libraries. It focused on detecting forest fires from drone images — so if a drone captured something suspicious, like smoke or fire, it could send an alert. The course helped me understand how AI can be applied to solve real-world problems.

Are you planning to study abroad? 

No, I’m not considering studying abroad right now. I feel India offers great opportunities, especially in the field of engineering and AI.

What do you think is the key to success in JEE? 

Consistency is the key. If you keep studying at a steady pace and avoid procrastination, you can do well. It’s about doing what you need to do without postponing. Staying motivated and regularly assessing your progress also helps in staying on track.