Preparing for UGC NET : Tips, Techniques, and Insights


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.

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