Choosing the Right Phone for NEET 2022 Preparation
Preparing for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is no small feat. The journey demands dedication, perseverance, and the right tools to stay on track. In this article, we'll explore the phone choices of aspirants and the impact these devices had on their studies. The experience of two batches—one in 2020 and the other in 2022—will shed light on the preferences and necessities for those preparing for NEET.
Studying in Kota: A Different Culture
A Wannabe Engineer recalls his experience in Kota, a city known for intense JEE preparation. Before his JEE Mains in 2013-2014, he was using a basic Nokia 1662 without internet. The culture of cybercafes was prevalent, with students using these facilities to catch up on social media and play games.
His brother, however, brought a Hero 600 feature phone to Kota for his JEE preparation in 2019. This phone was minimalistic, restricting access to social media and thus helping him stay focused. He used the phone to make a few calls a week, and it could last a week on a single charge. While in Kota, distractions were aplenty, but the key was prioritizing studies.
The NEET 2022 Experience
BP's response to a query about NEET 2022 preparation reveals a different tale. The context of the 2022 batch was marked by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. For many, the old-fashioned Nokia or Lava phones seemed a distant memory. Smartphones became a necessity due to the need for online classes, downloading notes, and participation in WhatsApp groups.
Initially, for a period of two months, BP used her mother's Samsung Galaxy J7 Prime. However, when her father purchased a new Samsung Galaxy J8, she switched to it. The choice of the phone wasn't about the device itself but about the time and effort invested. BP noted her average screen time was just two hours, with most of it being productive, either chatting, listening to music, or watching YouTube videos. The gaming was a no-no for two years, reinforcing the importance of focused study.
Lessons from NEET Preparation
The stories from the 2020 and 2022 batches highlight some key points:
Minimal Distractions with Feature Phones: For students who find it hard to resist the allure of smartphones, feature phones or simple devices with limited internet access can be a useful tool to stay focused. Productivity over Screen Time: The use of time with a device pales in comparison to the significance of productive activities it enables. For BP, the productive use of screen time emphasized the importance of staying on track. Adaptation and Flexibility: In times of unprecedented challenges, like the 2022 batch faced with the pandemic, adaptability becomes crucial. Smartphones provided the necessary tools to continue studies while ensuring safety and productivity.Choosing the right phone for NEET preparation is a multifaceted decision that involves understanding one's self-discipline and the context of the preparation. It's a balance between staying connected and staying focused. For aspirants, the choice should be driven by the goal of maximizing study time and minimizing distractions.