How I prepared for my NEET PG- PART 2

In continuation from my last post https://themedhead.com/how-i-prepared-for-my-neet-pg-part-1/

1. Revision Strategy

• After completing my first round of reading, I fine-tuned my approach to ensure maximum retention and understanding. This was a game-changer in my preparation.
• I began by watching BTR videos for each subject before diving into practice questions. These videos helped reinforce concepts in a concise manner and often provided high-yield insights, which were crucial during my revisions. After watching the videos, I would go back to solving previous years’ questions (PYQs) for the subject, making sure I understood the pattern and logic behind each answer.
• One of the key techniques that helped me stay organized was updating my main notes. As I worked through PYQs and videos, I marked important points, updated my notes, and added new insights. This way, my notes became a more comprehensive and high-yield resource, which I could refer to during quick revisions.
• Additionally, I had created a 20th notebook dedicated entirely to volatile topics—those facts and details that are hard to retain but frequently tested. This notebook became my go-to during the last leg of preparation, allowing me to quickly review and memorize the trickier, more elusive information. It played a vital role in ensuring I didn’t miss out on the small but crucial details on the exam.
• This combination of reviewing videos, solving PYQs, and consistently updating my notes, along with the 20th notebook, made my study process more dynamic and effective, especially as I approached the final stages of preparation.

2. Mental and Physical Well-being

• Preparing for NEET PG is not just about academic dedication—mental and physical well-being plays an equally important role in maintaining consistency and avoiding burnout. I learned early on that long hours of study and intense focus can be draining, and without taking care of myself, I wouldn’t be able to sustain the energy needed for effective preparation.
• On the mental health front, I made sure to take regular breaks. Initially, I underestimated the importance of breaks, but over time, I realized they helped me retain information better and reduced anxiety. I practiced mindfulness and meditation for 10-15 minutes every day, which helped me manage stress, especially when I felt overwhelmed by the syllabus. Surrounding myself with a positive support system, including friends and family, also kept me motivated and helped me regain perspective when I felt discouraged.
• Physical health was another priority. I kept a balanced routine by incorporating regular exercise, whether it was a quick jog, yoga, or simply walking to refresh my mind. Sitting for long hours can be tiring, so I made it a point to stretch between study sessions. I also paid attention to my diet, ensuring I ate healthy meals at regular intervals and stayed hydrated to maintain my focus.
• Getting sufficient sleep was non-negotiable for me. While it was tempting to sacrifice sleep for more study time, I noticed my performance dropped if I wasn’t well-rested. I aimed for 7-8 hours of sleep every night, which improved my concentration and retention abilities.
• Taking care of both my mental and physical health ensured I stayed consistent and resilient throughout the preparation journey, allowing me to perform at my best when it mattered most.

3. Challenges Faced and How To Overcame Them

• Like most aspirants, I encountered several challenges during my NEET PG preparation. The sheer volume of the syllabus was overwhelming at times. It was difficult to balance multiple subjects while ensuring that I didn’t neglect any one of them. To tackle this, I relied on careful planning. I broke the syllabus into manageable chunks, focusing on covering a certain number of topics daily and sticking to a fixed timetable. This structure helped me track my progress and kept me from feeling lost.
• Another major challenge was retention. With so much information to remember, I often felt that I was forgetting what I had studied earlier. To overcome this, I incorporated multiple revisions into my schedule. My strategy of revising subjects several times, along with my 20th notebook for volatile topics, was key in overcoming this hurdle. Revisiting these points frequently ensured that I had the important details fresh in my mind before the exam.
• I also had moments of self-doubt, especially when I compared my progress with others or felt like I wasn’t retaining enough. This led to anxiety and stress, which could easily disrupt my focus. I learned to handle this by setting realistic expectations and focusing on my own journey. Regular breaks, physical activity, and practicing mindfulness also helped me stay calm and maintain a balanced mindset.
• Lastly, time management during question practice was a challenge. Solving PYQs within a limited time frame initially felt difficult. However, with regular practice and mock exams, I trained myself to manage time better. The combination of strategic preparation and timed practice helped me overcome this challenge effectively.

To all future NEET PG aspirants, I want to say that this journey may feel daunting, but with the right mindset and approach, success is within reach. Remember, consistency is key. It’s not about how many hours you study in a day, but how consistently you show up, learn, and revise. Be diligent with your study plan, and make sure to revise regularly—it’s the cornerstone of retaining vast amounts of information. Don’t be disheartened if you hit obstacles along the way; every challenge you face is an opportunity to grow. Most importantly, have faith in yourself. Believe that with perseverance and hard work, you can achieve your goals. Stay focused, stay positive, and never lose sight of why you started this journey in the first place. You’ve got this!