Best Preparation Strategy for UGC NET/JRF Exam 2025

Cracking the UGC NET/JRF exam on the first attempt requires strategic planning, disciplined study, and an efficient approach. With the right 90-day preparation strategy, you can maximize your chances of qualifying for NET/JRF. In this article, we provide you with a detailed study plan, a topic-wise preparation strategy, and essential tips to help you achieve success.

Understanding the UGC NET/JRF Exam Pattern

Before getting into the preparation strategy, let us understand the UGC NET/JRF exam pattern:

• Paper 1 (General paper on Teaching and Research Aptitude) – 50 questions (100 marks)
• Paper 2 (Subject-specific) – 100 questions (200 marks)
• Total Duration – 3 hours (No separate timing for each paper)
• No negative marking

90 Days UGC NET/JRF Study Plan

• Phase 1: First 30 Days – Concept Building
  • The first month is crucial for understanding concepts, revising basics and making notes.
  • Paper 1: Focus on Teaching Aptitude, Research Methodology, Communication, ICT, Higher Education System and Logical Reasoning.
  • Paper 2: Cover the basics of your subject as per the syllabus.
    • Daily Routine:
      • 4 hours for Paper 2 subjects
      • 2 hours for Paper 1
      • 1 hour for Current Affairs and General Awareness
      • Main Resources: NTA UGC NET books, previous years’ papers and online lectures.
• Phase 2: Next 30 days – Strengthening and Practicing Weak Areas
  • This phase focuses on revision, solving mock tests and practicing previous years’ papers.
  • Paper 1: Take a full-length mock test every other day.
  • Paper 2: Solve 5-10 topic-wise MCQs daily and review weak areas.
  • Revise important formulas, theories and case studies.
  • Improve time management and accuracy by taking full-length tests.
• Phase 3: Last 30 days – Intensive Revision and Mock Tests
  • The last month is important for revision, improving speed and confidence building.
  • Revise handwritten notes and important topics.
  • Take at least 10 full-length mock tests.
  • Analyze performance and work on weak sections.
  • Focus on speed and accuracy in MCQs.
  • Practice at least 10 years of previous question papers.

Subject-wise Preparation Strategy for UGC NET/JRF

• Paper 1 strategy (same for all subjects)
  • Teaching Aptitude: Understand the key concepts of teaching, evaluation and communication skills.
  • Research Aptitude: Learn research methods, sampling techniques and paper writing skills.
  • Reading Comprehension: Improve reading speed and answer questions efficiently.
  • Mathematical and Logical Reasoning: Focus on syllogisms, number series, coding-decoding and Venn diagrams.
  • Data Interpretation: Practice bar graphs, pie charts and tabular data questions.
• Paper 2 strategy (subject-specific)
  • Know the syllabus: Download the latest NTA UGC NET syllabus for your subject and categorize topics into strong, medium and weak sections.
  • Use standard books: Refer to the official textbooks recommended for UGC NET preparation.
  • Make short notes: Write down important definitions, concepts and formulas for quick revision.
  • Solve PYQs: Solve at least 10 years of previous papers to understand the exam pattern.

Essential Tips to Crack UGC NET/JRF in First Attempt

1. Follow a disciplined study routine
   1. Follow the timetable and maintain a consistent study pattern.
   2. Divide time between concept learning, revision and practice tests.
2. Choose the right study material
   1. Refer to NTA NET official books, online study material and coaching notes.
   2. Enroll in reputed online courses if needed.
3. Attempt mock tests and analyze performance
   1. Take weekly mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
   2. Identify weak areas and work on them constantly.
4. Practice previous years’ question papers
   1. Solving the last 10 years’ question papers helps in understanding the exam pattern and frequently asked topics.
5. Improve time management
   1. Learn to prioritise questions and solve easy questions first.
   2. Avoid spending too much time on a single question.
6. Stay updated with current affairs
   1. Read newspapers, follow government schemes, policies and international developments. Focus on academic improvement and research development.
7. Stay motivated and avoid stress
   1. Take small breaks between study sessions.
   2. Practice meditation or exercise to keep your mind active.
   3. Be confident and have faith in your preparation strategy.

Conclusion

It is possible to crack the UGC NET/JRF exam in the first attempt with dedication, strategic planning and constant practice. Follow the 90-day study plan, stay focused and work hard to score high in NET/JRF 2025.

Also Read:

• Know How to Crack UGC NET Exam in the First Attempt?
• How to Crack UGC NET Exam 2025 in First Attempt?