IIT JAM 2017 Mathematics Topper Interview: AIR 2, Subhasish Chanda is a cricket fan

Subhasish Chanda, IIT JAM Mathematics Topper

Subhasish Chanda bagged AIR 2 in IIT JAM 2017 Mathematics paper by securing 78.02 marks out of 100. Currently pursuing Master of Mathematics from Indian Statistical Institute, Bangalore, Subhasish is a BSc Mathematics graduate from Presidency University.

Being from an economically challenged background, Subhasish never joined any coaching classes. Rather, his hard work always got him scholarships to pursue his higher studies successfully. During graduation, Subhasish used to get DST-INSPIRE scholarship. Also, currently, Subhasish receives NBHM scholarship that is helping him in pursuing his post-graduation.

Read More: Popular MSc scholarships in India

Although MSc Mathematics was always his first preference but Subhasish shared that he loves to unwind by watching cricket and football. In leisure time he also likes to play video games, particularly PES and FIFA.

In a candid interview with Shiksha, Subhasish shares his success mantras, preparation strategy, future plans, and more. Go through the complete interview below:

Yes, I expected myself to be in the list of top 10 students.

My plan was to be ready for the toughest entrance exams (like CMI Entrance Exam, ISI Admission Test, TIFR GS, and of course IIT JAM) for MSc Mathematics in India. My study plan was such that I picked one book at a time and set a target of a definite number of days within which I tried to complete it.

I studied from books by different authors to prepare for IIT JAM. Some such books include:

• Algebra by Micheal Artin
• Introduction to Real Analysis by SK Mapa
• A Basic Course in Real Analysis by S Kumaresan and Ajit Jumar
• Vector and Tensor Analysis by Utpal Chatterjee and Nandini Chatterjee
• Differential Equations with Applications and Historical Notes by GF Simmons

IIT JAM 2017 result was published on March 24. After that we applied for admission in April, 2017. The admission lists were published in June, 2017 post which we had to pay the seat booking fee. In July, 2017 IIT Bombay sent me the offer letter. I, however, decided to join ISI, Bangalore. 

I worked mainly on my weaknesses. I was weak in Differential Equations and Vector Analysis. So I worked on these two sections. And, most importantly I solved all previous years’ question papers. That is a must for JAM preparation.

Students should not concentrate on only two-three topics that they like. Rather, they should give all topics equal importance during preparation.

If a student finds one particular question difficult he/she should not waste time on it. If there is time and the student has answered the remaining questions, only then he/she should try attempting that question. To avoid negative marking, a student should not attempt a question if he/she is unsure of. 

For me, Vector Analysis was the most difficult part of the exam.

IIT JAM was the first computer-based exam that I gave. I found it easy enough.

All the students who have solved previous years’ question papers of IIT JAM should feel confident on the day of exam.

Most of the students try to skip some portion of the syllabus, which is a wrong strategy to follow. I suggest IIT JAM 2018 aspirants not to do that. Students should cover the whole syllabus and for that they must study 365 days a year.

After I clear Master of Mathematics successfully from ISI, I will look for some good placement opportunities and help my father in bearing household expenses.