#CareerBytes: Busting common myths about the IIT-JEE exam
What's the story
The JEE entrance exam is the ultimate test for any engineering aspirant in India. Clearing the two-level test is vital for getting admission to the the coveted IITs, NITs, and other top engineering schools. Here are common myths and misconceptions about the JEE exam you need to steer clear of, while preparing for the exam.
Boards
Myth: Ignore Board exams and focus solely on JEE
Many students get duped into believing that for making it into the IITs and NITs, they solely need to focus on the JEE exams and that they can ignore the Board exams. However, the truth is that the Board exams will help you build the base for the advanced concepts tested in JEE. Thus, one's Boards' and JEE preparation must go hand in hand.
Long study hours
Myth: Studying for insanely long hours daily is a must
Many students get scared right at the beginning of their preparation because they think they'll have to put in at least 12 hours of study on a daily-basis for at least 2 years. This, however, is far from truth. Study hours don't matter as much as the quality of study does. 4-8 hours of regular, concentrated, religious study, with dedicated revision is sufficient.
Study volume
Myth: More your study material, better your chances of success
Another common myth about JEE exam preparation is that one has to refer to a vast volume of study material to be successful. This is a plain misconception, as citing various sources for a single topic won't help but create confusion in the mind of the learner and also waste much of their time. One or two reliable sources/books for a topic is enough.
Information
Myth: You must join coaching classes to crack the exam
Given the hearsay, a lot of students wrongly end up believing that joining formal coaching classes is a sure-shot way of cracking the JEE exam. However, truth be told, all one needs is conceptual clarity, which can even come from diligent and regular self-study.