CUET Preparation Tips 2024: Study Plan, Strategy, Time Table & Best Books for CUET UG

Central Universities Common Entrance Test 2024 ( CUET )

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Exam On: 15 May '24 - 31 May '24

Shruti Garg

Shruti GargSenior Executive

Updated on Sep 1, 2023 14:47 IST

CUET preparation is crucial given the competitive nature of the exam, which is taken by over 10 lakh candidates. CUET UG 2024 exam will commence tentatively in third week of June 2024. Students must plan their CUET UG 2024 preparation accordingly. Students must prepare well and study religiously to score well on the exam. Read on to know how to schedule your time to prepare for the exam, major topics to prepare from and more!

Also Read: CUET 2024 Last-Minute Preparation Strategy and Tips

CUET 2024 Analysis and Student Reactions

CUET is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to over 250 universities out of which there are 41 Central Universities, 36 State Universities, 29 Deemed Universities, 110 Private Universities, and three other universities.

Step Wise CUET preparation

Step 1: Go through the CUET syllabus thoroughly.

Step 2: Understand the CUET exam pattern and marking scheme and prepare accordingly.

Step 3: Get all the study material for CUET such as prep books and previous years' question papers to help better understand what to expect in the exam.

Step 4: Create a monthly timetable on how much material to cover on a daily basis.

Step 5: Solve question papers, sample papers and mock tests.

 

How to prepare for CUET

CUET is an all-India entrance exam that is highly competitive and candidates appearing for the exam need to have a strategy and aim in order to score well and qualify. Aspirants can go through the following prep strategy methods while preparing for CUET.

Know exam pattern for CUET

CUET exam pattern is such that question papers for almost all the courses contain a total of 160 multiple-choice questions out of which candidates have to attempt around 130 questions within three hours duration. The total number of questions has changed as compared to last year.

Candidates can refer to the table below for further clarification:

The table below brings the broad structure of the exam in terms of the number of questions in each section along with the duration.

Section

Number of Questions

Question Types

Section IA

40 questions to be attempted out of 50 in each language

Language to be tested through Reading Comprehension based on different types of passages–Factual, Literary and Narrative, (Literary Aptitude and Vocabulary)

Section IB

Section II

35/40 Questions to be attempted out of 45/50

  • Input text can be used for MCQ Based Questions

  • MCQs based on NCERT Class 12 syllabus only

Section III

50 Questions to be attempted out of 60

  • Input text can be used for MCQ Based Questions

  • General Knowledge, Current Affairs, General Mental Ability, Numerical Ability, Quantitative Reasoning (Simple application of basic mathematical concepts arithmetic/algebra geometry/mensuration/s tat taught till Grade 8), Logical and Analytical Reasoning

Marking scheme: Candidates will be awarded five marks for each correct answer. There will be a negative marking of -1 mark for each incorrect answer. No marks will be awarded or deducted for unattempted questions.

  Know the CUET Syllabus

To perform well in the CUET test, candidates have to thoroughly go through the syllabus. Aspirants need to strategise their plans on a monthly, weekly and daily basis. There is no success without hard work and in order to qualify for the entrance exam, candidates can prepare better by knowing which topics to cover in-depth and which require superficial knowledge. The candidate can do so as per the below-mentioned pointers:

  • Make a list of topics, subject wise
  • Segregate the subjects and topics into easy and difficult as per personal experience.
  • Note down topics that will carry maximum weightage (as per previous year’s question papers).

Go through the Preparation books

In order to perform well in the CUET exam, candidates need to make a list of books from which they should study for the entrance exam. Candidates are advised to purchase at least two to three prep books for CUET, depending on the course applied for. The books can help aspirants determine which topics to cover and study along with what to expect for the entrance exam. For the programme applied for, candidates need only buy the books according to the course.

Prepare a TimeTable

Candidates need to make a timetable on what topics to cover when, which subjects require high priority and how much to cover on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. Aspirants are advised to create a daily plan and while preparing a timetable, special attention should be given to completing the CUET syllabus. Revise the syllabus and content, attempt as many question papers, mock papers and previous years' question papers to better help prepare. Through this, a candidate can have a fair idea of what to expect in the entrance exam.

Refer to Past Year’s Question Papers

Candidates appearing for the CUET 2023 exam are advised to solve the last five years question papers to help better understand the exam pattern and format of questions that will be asked in the entrance exam. Through the previous questions, candidates can understand which subjects are given high importance and topics which can help the aspirant score better in the exam.

Solve sample papers and Mock tests

The best way for a candidate to know their strengths and weakness is by solving question papers, sample papers and mock tests. Through this, candidates can also figure out the best approach to be followed when they head out to attempt the actual CUET question paper. From formulating time management to understanding the format of the paper, solving sample papers can help candidates prepare better for the entrance exam.

Q:   How do I prepare for CUET UG and Board examinations?

A:

The syllabus for CUET UG domain subjects will be based on class 12th to reduce the stress of preparing for both the exams. To prepare for CUET UG and Board examination, here are few important tips:

  • Start early preparation for CUET UG and board exams. This will give you enough time to cover the syllabus, practice the questions, and get familiar with the exam pattern.
  • Create a study plan: Once you are familiar with the syllabus for both exams, create a study plan that will help you cover all the topics in a systematic manner. Make sure to allocate enough time for each subject and topic.
  • Focus on the subjects that you are struggling with. Consider taking a few practice CUET UG tests to see where you stand.
  • Manage your time effectively. Practice answering questions under timed conditions so that you can get used to the pressure of the exam.
  • Use the right resources. There are many resources available to help you prepare for the CUET UG and board exams. These include NCERT textbooks, practice questions, and mock tests. Use the resources that work best for you and that will help you improve your knowledge and skills.

Q:   How to prepare for General Test and English, CUET?

A:

The first step for any subject preparation is to comprehensively understand the syllabus. Hence, take a print out of the syllabuses for get and English from the official CUET website. For get: Make a realistic plan/timetable and try to stick to it. Divide your preparation in phases. In the 1st phase, prepare your entire syllabus, schedule your mock practice in the 2nd phase and keep revision + mock practice in the 3rd phase. Start your preparation by focusing on a subject that you find challenging. Keep the Current Affairs preparation parallel to Quants/LR. Solve Previous Year Papers. For English Establish a daily newspaper reading habit. Mark out words unknown to you and search out their meanings, synonym-antonyms. Practice a lot of Reading Comprehension. And lastly, appear for mocks.

Q:   Does the CUET syllabus also include chapters from Class 11?

A:

No, the CUET 2024 syllabus does not include the chapters or topics from Class 11 syllabus. The exam, which is conducted for multiple subjects and languages, has to be prepared by completing the Class 12 syllabus only. NTA has also released the subject-wise syllabus of the CUET UG 2024 exam, which will be held from May 15 to May 31, 2024 in CBT mode. However, students may refer to the Class 11 syllabus for better conceptual clarity and to make the base of the domain subjects stronger. But as far as the actual syllabus is concerned, it will only be based on Class 12 CBSE or NCERT syllabus.

Books to read for CUET preparation

Candidates must prepare every topic from prep books as it will students clear doubts as well as understand the subjects thoroughly.

Books

Author

A Problem Book in Mathematical Analysis

GN Berman

Concepts of Physics

HC Verma

A Textbook of Organic Chemistry

RK Gupta

Higher Algebra

Hall & Knight

Problems in Calculus of One Variable

IA Maron

Objective Biology

Dinesh

International Economics

Bo Soderstien and Geoffrey Reed

Indian Economy: Performance & Policies

Uma, Kapila

ABC Chemistry

S.P. Jauhar

Methodology and Perspectives of Social Science

Abhijit Kundu

Elementary Mathematics

DoroFeev Patapov

International Economics

Dominick Salvatore

A Class-book Botany

AC Dutta

Economics

Lipsey R. and A Chrytal

Fundamental Methods of Mathematical Economics

Chiang A.C. and K. Wainwright

Also Read: CUET UG 2024 Books and Study Materials

 

Q:   Are NCERT books enough to cover CUET syllabus?

A:

Since the CUET syllabus is in line with the Class 12 Board exam syllabus, it can be safely assumed that the NCERT books are enough to cover the syllabus of the exam. Candidates must note that, CUET exam tests students' understanding of the concepts and ability to apply them in various situations. Therefore, to prepare well and get a good score, it is advised that students refer to other study materials and books designed for national level competitive entrance exams. The CUET UG syllabus is in tune with the Class 12 Board exam syllabus. The chapters and topics are similar to Class 12 syllabus. Unlike other UG entrance exams, CUET UG syllabus does not include Class 11 syllabus.

Q:   How to develop general knowledge and crack the general test paper for CUET?

A:
Developing general knowledge is an essential aspect of cracking the general test paper. Here are some tips that can help you develop your general knowledge and improve your performance in general test papers: 1. Read widely: Read newspapers, magazines, books, and online articles to stay updated with Current Affairs history, Science, and other topics. Focus on the information relevant to the test paper and make notes to revise later. 2. Watch educational videos: YouTube and other online platforms offer a vast range of educational videos on different topics, including general knowledge. Watch these videos to understand complex concepts in an engaging way. 3. Solve practice papers: Solve as many practice papers and previous years' papers as possible to get an idea of the test pattern, the type of questions, and the difficulty level. Analyze your mistakes and revise the concepts accordingly. 4. Join quiz clubs: Join quiz clubs or participate in online quizzes to test your knowledge and improve your performance. It helps you to learn from other participants and enhances your learning experience. 5. Attend seminars and workshops: Attend seminars, workshops, and webinars on topics related to general knowledge. It helps you to interact with experts and gain insights on different topics. 6. Take online courses: Online courses are an excellent way to learn new skills and acquire knowledge in different fields. Choose courses that align with your interests and can help you in the test paper. 7. Improve your memory: General knowledge tests often require recalling information from memory. So, improve your memory skills by using mnemonic devices, memory games, and other techniques to retain information for a long time. Remember, developing general knowledge is a continuous process, and it requires consistent effort and dedication. So, practice regularly and stay updated with the latest news and events to improve your performance in general test papers.

CUET Topper Tips

According to last year's toppers, the best methods of CUET UG 2024 preparation include referring to the right books, taking regular mock tests and solving previous years' CUET question papers and following a disciplined and systematic approach. According to the toppers, NCERT is the best source of preparation. Once the syllabus is completed, students must go through revision. After this, they should take regular mock tests to understand their preparation level and also analyse to device a preparation strategy to improve their performance at the exam. Shiksha.com has interviewed the CUET UG 2023 toppers Read the interviews below to know their success mantras. 

Read Success Stories below:

FAQs Regarding CUET Preparation

Check frequently asked questions on CUET preparation below:

Q:   What type of questions are asked in the CUET exam?

A:

The CUET questions are objective and carries multiple choices (MCQs). Each question will have four answer options. Candidates will have to deduce the correct answer option and click on it with the help of mouse. Since CUET UG 2024 exam will be conducted in a computer-based mode, test-takers will be able to mark only one answer option. In case it is the correct option, they will get full marks and in case of wrong answer, negative marking scheme will be applied. Hence, candidates must ensure the accuracy of the answer before selecting the answer. Before the final submission, they can change the answer option in case they realise that they have entered a wrong answer option earlier.

Q:   How to prepare for CUET?

A:

Candidates are advised to strongly go through the syllabus and should understand the exam pattern and marking scheme carefully. Candidates should also solve various sample papers, mock tests and previous years' question papers. Accor to a CUET Topper, here are some simple way to prepare for the exam. According to last year's toppers, the best methods of CUET UG 2023 preparation include referring to the right books, taking regular mock tests and solving previous years' CUET question papers and following a disciplined and systematic approach. According to the toppers, NCERT is the best source of preparation. Once the syllabus is completed, students must go through revision. After this, they should take regular mock tests to understand their preparation level and also analyse to device a preparation strategy to improve their performance at the exam. 

Q:   How should we prepare in these last days of preparation of CUET?

A:
Preparing for an exam like CUET (Chittagong University of Engineering & Technology) requires a strategic approach. Here are a few tips that can help you prepare effectively in these last days of preparation: 1. Revise the syllabus: Make sure you have covered all the topics that are part of the syllabus. Go through each topic once again to ensure that you have a good understanding of all the concepts. 2. Practice previous years' question papers: Solving previous years' question papers can give you an idea about the type of questions that can be asked in the exam. It can also help you identify your weak areas and work on them. 3. Take mock tests: Mock tests can help you simulate the exam environment and give you an idea of your preparation level. You can also use them to practice time management. 4. Focus on your weak areas: Identify your weak areas and work on them. Spend more time on topics that you find difficult to understand. 5. Stay calm and confident: It's important to stay calm and confident during the exam. Avoid last-minute cramming and trust your preparation. 6. Take breaks: Taking regular breaks can help you stay fresh and focused. Take short breaks after every hour or so of study. 7. Get enough rest: Make sure you get enough sleep in the last few days before the exam. A good night's sleep can help you stay alert and focused during the exam. Remember, it's important to stay focused, calm, and confident during the exam. All the best for your CUET exam!

Q:   What are the important rules that candidates need to take care of during the examination?

A:
During the exam, each candidate are required to attempt subject as per the choice selected in the application form. Candidates are suggested to ensure that name of the subject on the screen is the same as per their admit card. If candidates faces any issue or in case of any discrepancy candidates need to inform invigilators immediately. Notably, candidates must attempt subjects as per their choice in the application, and they are suggested to take proper care of this point. As once printed on the candidates issued admit card the subject will not be changed.

Q:   What are the important topics for B.Com Honors in CUET? How to prepare only in 1 month for the exam?

A:
Here are some important topics to be covered for the B.Com (Hons) CUET exam: Accounting: This is a core subject in commerce, covering topics such as financial accounting, cost accounting, management accounting, and taxation. Make sure to have a clear understanding of basic accounting concepts, journal entries, ledger posting, financial statements, and tax laws. Economics: This subject covers microeconomics and macroeconomics, including topics like demand and supply, production and cost theory, national income, monetary policy, and international trade. Understand key economic concepts, theories, and their applications. Business Mathematics and Statistics: This subject includes topics like business mathematics, business statistics, probability, and statistical tools for data analysis. Practice solving mathematical problems related to business and learn statistical techniques for data interpretation and analysis. Business Law: Familiarize yourself with the Indian Contract Act, Sale of Goods Act, Companies Act, Consumer Protection Act, and other relevant laws related to business transactions, contracts, and corporate governance. Financial Management: This subject covers topics such as capital budgeting, working capital management, financial analysis, risk management, and financial markets. Understand the principles of financial management, financial decision-making, and techniques used in financial analysis. Business Communication: Develop strong communication skills, including written and verbal communication, business correspondence, report writing, and presentation skills. Practice effective communication in business contexts and understand the nuances of professional communication. General Awareness: Stay updated with current affairs, business news, and general knowledge related to economics, finance, and business. Read newspapers, magazines, and online resources to stay informed about the latest developments in the business world. As for managing time, with only one month left for the exam, it's important to create a study plan and stick to it. Allocate specific time slots for each subject or topic based on their importance and your proficiency level. Prioritize your weak areas and focus on them first. Practice solving previous year question papers and take mock tests to evaluate your preparation level and identify areas that need improvement. Here are some tips for effective time management: Create a daily and weekly study schedule to cover all the subjects/topics systematically. Avoid procrastination and stay disciplined with your study plan. Take short breaks during study sessions to avoid burnout. Review and revise regularly to reinforce your learning. Practice time-bound mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy. Stay healthy by eating well, sleeping adequately, and exercising to keep your mind and body in optimal condition for studying. Lastly, do not forget to stay positive, stay focused, and believe in yourself. With consistent effort and determination, you can perform well in your B.Com (Hons) CUET exam. Best of luck!

Q:   What is the medium of CUET UG?

A:

Common University Entrance Test (CUET) UG is conducted Assamese, Bengali,  English, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi,  Punjabi, Odia, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu languages. Candidates must note that the selection of medium will be restricted to state/UTs. Refer the table below to know the mediums restricte to respective state/UTs:

LanguageExamination Centres
EnglishAll examination centres
English and HindiAll examination centres
English and AssameseExamination centres in Assam
English and BengaliExamination centres in West Bengal, Tripura, and Andaman and Nicobar Islands 
English and GujaratiExamination centres in Gujarat, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu
English and KannadaExamination centres in Karnataka
English and MalayalamExamination centres in Kerala and Lakshadweep
English and MarathiExamination centres in Maharashtra
English and OdiaExamination centres in Odisha
English and PunjabiExamination centres in Punjab, Chandigarh and Delhi/New Delhi (Including Faridabad, Gurugram, Ghaziabad, Meerut, Noida/Greater Noida)
English and TamilExamination centres in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andaman and Nicobar Islands
English and TeluguExamination centres in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
English and UrduAll examination centres in India

Q:   What is the CUET exam duration for each subject?

A:

As per the CUET exam pattern, the subjects are divided into three sections as:

Section IA and IB- Languages 

Section II- Domain Subject

Section III- General Test

Candidates will get 45 minutes for each subject. However, in subjects like Accountancy, Economics, Physics, Computer Science / Informatics Practices, Chemistry and Mathematics / Applied Mathematics and General Test, the duration of the exam will be 60 minutes. Candidates can choose any 10 subjects while filling the CUET application form. However, they must check the eligibility criteria of the university and programme they wish to apply for.

Q:   What is the difficulty level of the CUET exam?

A:

The difficulty level of the CUET exam ranges from moderate to tough. Since the CUET UG exam is held for multiple subjects and slots, the difficulty level of the exam varies from subject to subject. Sometimes, the difficulty level may also vary for different slots. The difficulty level of exam is also relative and the same exam's level of difficulty may vary for different candidates. While for the well prepared candidates, the difficulty level will be low, for the underprepared students, the level of difficulty will be on the higher side. 

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CUET Exam

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Answered Yesterday

Common University Entrance Test (CUET) score is accepted by more than 250 universities (central, state, private and deemed) across India. On the basis of the CUET UG score, candidates are offered admission to UG programme of the participating colleges. Candidates applying for admission to UG program

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Shruti Garg

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 days ago

DR. A.P.J Abdul Kalam Technical University is expected to conduct a total of six rounds for CUET-UG-qualified candidates. However, the cutoff rounds are conducted as per seat availability. If seats are available after AKTU round six of the counselling process, the University will release the special

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13029295
Mani Khanna

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 6 days ago

No, for admission to Calcutta University CUET score is not required. The University either accepts its in-house entrance exam or national-level entrance exams such as CAT/MAT/WBJEE/JEE Main, etc. 

13029295
Mani Khanna

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 6 days ago

Yes, this central university will also be offering admission to various courses based on CUET scores. However, this does not confirm admission. Candidates will have to meet the course-specific minimum eligibility and other criteria as prescribed by the university as well.

31734515
Kratika Sharma

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

Here are some common mistakes to avoid in the CUET PG 2024 exam:

  • Not reading the instructions carefully. Before you start the exam, be sure to read the instructions carefully so that you understand what is expected of you.
  • Not managing your time effectively. The CUET PG exam is a timed exam, so it is

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48624059
Manisha Kumari

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

To apply to universities for admission based on your CUET PG 2024 scores, you will need to follow these steps:

  1. Check the eligibility criteria for the universities and courses you are interested in. Each university will have its own eligibility criteria, so it is important to check this carefully befo

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48624059
Manisha Kumari

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a week ago

CUET UG Language section will consist of 50 questions. Candidates will be required to attempt 40 out of 50 question in CUET UG exam. The language section will assess candidate's reading comprehension based on different types of passages. This section will also include questions from grammar. To prep

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32295433
Shruti Garg

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a week ago

No, Shivaji College admission to all undergraduate courses, is entrance-based. While this DU-affiliated college accepts the CUET UG exam for admission to its BSc courses.

40939197
Indrani Choudhury

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

Practicing with CUET UG (Common University Entrance Test) question papers from previous years offers several valuable benefits exam preparation:

  1. Familiarity with Exam Pattern: CUET question papers from past years provide insight into the format, structure, and types of questions that commonly appear

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32295433
Shruti Garg

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

Common University Entrance Test (CUET) sample papers are released by the conducting body, National Testing Agency (NTA). To download the CUET sample papers and previous year question papers candidates can get the direct link on this website. To download the CUET question papers candidates must refer

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32295433
Shruti Garg

Contributor-Level 10

274 Institutes accepting CUET

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    Infrastructure

    4.4

    Faculty & Course Curriculum

    4.4

    Crowd & Campus Life

    4.6

    Value for Money

    4.6
    (57)
  • |
  • Total Fees: ₹ 35,464
  • |
  • 4 years
  • |
  • Full Time
B.Sc. in Biotechnology
  • 4.2

    Placements

    3.3

    Infrastructure

    4.4

    Faculty & Course Curriculum

    4.3

    Crowd & Campus Life

    4.4

    Value for Money

    4.8
    (8)
  • |
  • Total Fees: ₹ 24,000
  • |
  • 3 years
  • |
  • Full Time
Discontinued (May 2022)- B.Sc. (Hons.) in Computer S...
  • 4.1

    Placements

    4.5

    Infrastructure

    3.5

    Faculty & Course Curriculum

    3.5

    Crowd & Campus Life

    5.0

    Value for Money

    4.0
    (2)
  • |
  • Total Fees: ₹ 1.47 Lakh
  • |
  • 3 years
  • |
  • Full Time
Integrated M.Sc. in Physics
  • 4.6

    Placements

    4.0

    Infrastructure

    4.5

    Faculty & Course Curriculum

    5.0

    Crowd & Campus Life

    4.5

    Value for Money

    5.0
    (2)
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  • Total Fees: ₹ 37,250
  • |
  • 5 years
  • |
  • Full Time

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