On 12th April 2025, the
Department of English and Cultural Studies, in collaboration with the Centre
for Competitive Exams, organised a session titled “Preparing for UGC NET:
Tips, Techniques and Insights” for the first-year M.A. English with Digital
Humanities students. The session was conducted with the objective of
familiarising students with the structure, significance, and preparation
strategies associated with the UGC NET examination. The resource person for the
session was Ms. Pillai Krishna Jaykumar, a UGC NET Qualified candidate (2024),
who shared her experiences and practical insights regarding the examination
process and preparation methods.
The session began with an
introduction to the importance of the UGC NET examination for students aspiring
to pursue careers in academia and research. The speaker explained how
qualifying the examination opens opportunities for lectureship, Junior Research
Fellowship (JRF), doctoral studies, and research-oriented academic careers.
Students were also informed about the growing relevance of competitive
examinations in higher education and the role of UGC NET in establishing
professional credibility and academic advancement. The discussion also
highlighted how early preparation can help students build confidence and
develop a stronger academic foundation for future opportunities.
A major focus of the
session was the examination pattern and structure of the UGC NET exam. The
resource person explained the format of both Paper I and Paper II, highlighting
the nature of questions, marking scheme, duration, and syllabus components. The
session also provided clarity regarding the types of questions commonly asked
in the examination, including comprehension-based, analytical, conceptual, and
subject-oriented questions. Students were introduced to strategies for
understanding question patterns and managing time effectively during the
examination.
Particular attention was given to approaching objective-type
questions with accuracy and critical thinking.
The resource person also
discussed various resources that students could utilise while preparing for the
examination. Reference books, online platforms, mock tests, previous years’
question papers, video lectures, and digital learning materials were suggested
as useful preparation tools. Students were encouraged to make use of structured
study plans and maintain consistency in their preparation process. Guidance was
provided on how to organise study schedules, revise effectively, and approach
different sections of the syllabus systematically. An important aspect of the
session was the discussion on planning and preparation techniques. The speaker
shared practical tips for balancing postgraduate coursework with competitive
exam preparation. Techniques such as daily revision, note-making, regular
practice tests, and topic-wise preparation were emphasised. Students were also
advised on maintaining discipline, confidence, and consistency throughout the
preparation journey. The interactive nature of the session enabled students to
clarify doubts related to preparation strategies.
The session concluded with
a discussion on career prospects available after clearing the UGC NET
examination. Students gained insight into opportunities in teaching, research,
higher studies, fellowships, and academic projects. The programme proved to be
informative and motivating, encouraging students to begin preparing for
competitive examinations early in their academic journey. Overall, the session
successfully provided participants with a clear understanding of the UGC NET
examination and the strategies required for effective preparation and future
academic growth.
Comments
Post a Comment