The Power of NCERT: How Many Times Did You Read It?

During my preparation for the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test), I found myself reflecting on my study habits. If you are one of those students who might have faced similar inquiries like “How many times did you read NCERT?”—you're not alone. Many of us spent countless hours going through these comprehensive textbooks. Let's delve into the importance of NCERT and how often one must read these books for effective retention and performance in exams.

NCERT's Role in NEET Preparation

NCERT books serve as the cornerstone of NEET preparation. They are not just text books; they are a treasure trove of information, systematically organized to cover all the necessary topics. However, the key to leveraging these books lies in consistent and strategic reading. The importance of reading NCERT cannot be overstated, especially for those who found biology interesting. But for those who just wanted to get through the subject, the results might have been surprising.

My Personal Experience

During the lockdown period, I found myself distracted and unavailable for much studying. The three months were a mix of television, fun, and new relationships, with a moment of clarity to read biology in April and a pre-exam read in early September. My scores always hovered around 300, thanks to the profound influence of NCERT on my long-term memory. Even during the controversial NTA Abhyas test, my scores were strong because of my thorough preparation through NCERT. Quizzing myself about NCERT questions on Quora was a fun and effective way to reinforce my understanding, demonstrating just how much I had internalized the material.

Reading Frequency: A Key Factor

Over the two years of preparation, I went through NCERT between 20 to 25 times per chapter, with some chapters like Morphology and Anatomy requiring more extensive readings. This demonstrates the crucial role of consistent reading in building a robust understanding of the subject.

Memorization Techniques

The question often asked is, "How many times do you need to read NCERT to retain the information?" The answer largely depends on individual memory capacity and concentration levels. For most students, reading NCERT 2-3 times with full concentration can ensure the information stays in the brain. The key is to not just read, but to recall and internalize the content. This approach not only helps in memorization but also in applying the concepts effectively.

Lessons Learned

While the lockdown period may have been a bane for many students who had already completed their syllabus, it offered a unique reflection on our study habits. The extension of exams meant that the race to NEET preparations became longer, and the energy levels of many students waned. However, those who were thoroughly prepared with NCERT were able to maintain their performance levels.

Conclusion

Efficient and consistent reading of NCERT is paramount in NEET preparation. Whether you are a natural at the subject or not, the systematic approach provided by NCERT can greatly enhance your understanding and performance. The number of times you read NCERT might vary, but the key is to ensure that each read is thorough and meaningful.