Prepare For AIIMS: Strategies For Success
When it comes to pursuing post-graduation after MBBS, AIIMS is the preferred choice for most medical aspirants. Being one of the premium institutes, AIIMS is an aspiration because it offers state-of-the-art medical science technologies, instrumentation, skill laboratories, and some of India’s top medical faculties.
To secure a seat at AIIMS, candidates must clear the Institute of National Importance Combined Entrance Test (INI-CET) exam that is conducted twice a year after clearing their MBBS degree. The INI- CET will be conducted in an online mode and will comprise 200 objective questions and candidates get three hours to answer them.
Here are a few preparation tips that help you excel in your AIIMS preparation.
1. MAP OUT A STUDY PLAN
Forming an effective exam preparation strategy is of the utmost importance. It’s important to map out a study timetable and assign a subject/topic to each day. Also, ensure you know the weightage for each subject and topic, to prioritize essential topics first.
Studying high-yield topics thoroughly will enable you to attempt maximum questions successfully and avoid negative markings.
Also, pay attention to subjects such as bioavailability, PC-T graph, CYP substrate – its inducers and inhibitors, first and zero-order kinetics, different types of receptors, and which drugs act upon which receptors: clinical trials, etc.
Similarly, when preparing for surgery and studying the thyroid, you must prioritize topics such as thyroglossal cyst, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis & grave disease, and much else.
Make sure to identify the high-yield areas for all the topics before taking up any subject to make your preparations more fruitful. You can also review previous year’s question papers to outline the most critical topics.
2. MANAGE YOUR TIME
Candidates must prepare a detailed timetable and manage their time for study and revision accordingly. Try to utilize the first four months for reading and the last two months for revision. Candidates should avoid spending too much time in weaker sections and instead, work on further strengthening the subjects/topics that they are confident about.
3. PRACTICE CONSISTENCY
The most crucial factor for success in the INI – CET exam is consistency. Since the preparation time for the exam is limited, you will not be able to compensate for even one day lost in preparation. Therefore, you must be strict in enforcing your set timetable. Being steadfast and consistent with your preparation routine is the only way to success.
4. MAKE A SCHEDULE
The last couple of months before the exam must be dedicated to revision. Candidates must focus on practicing several MCQs. Make a daily target of practicing almost 300-400 MCQs.
Read each question and its options carefully. The idea is to try to recall everything you know about each option, and then work on eliminating the incorrect options one by one. After reaching the answer, try to understand the explanation of each question.
5. ONLINE MOCK TEST
The last month before the exam is when you should take online mock tests. They provide an excellent opportunity to work on time management skills and identify and address your weaknesses.
Candidates should attempt subject-wise and full-length tests in timed, untimed, and exam pattern mode. Once you’ve faced various types of questions during mock tests, you’ll also have the confidence to attempt them correctly in the final exam.
Lastly, a lot of effort is required to crack this exam, so being mentally strong and staying calm is critical. One thing that will help you with a successful preparation strategy is your confidence. Ensure you continue to work on boosting your morale and nothing can stop you from getting into AIIMS.