New Delhi: The NEET 2025 exam is a crucial milestone for students aspiring to become doctors. After months or even years of preparation, how you manage yourself on exam day can significantly impact your performance. Even with strong preparation, it’s common to feel nervous or unsure before the exam. That’s why having the right last-minute strategy is essential.
These exam-day tips will help you stay calm, focused, and confident, ensuring you perform your best when it matters most.
Day Before the Exam
- Avoid New Topics: Don’t try to study new or difficult topics at the last moment-it may cause stress and confusion.
- Revise Smartly: Focus on key concepts, short notes, and important formulas or diagrams in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- Organise Exam Essentials: Keep your NEET Admit Card, valid ID proof, passport-sized photos, and a black or blue ballpoint pen ready. Also, verify your exam centre location in advance.
Sleep Well the Night Before
- Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep to stay fresh and alert.
- Avoid screens and studying late into the night.
- Relax with light reading or calming music before bed.
What to Eat on Exam Day
- Eat a light but filling breakfast. Choose fruits, toast, oats, or boiled eggs.
- Stay hydrated, but avoid drinking too much water right before the exam.
- Avoid caffeine or heavy, greasy food to prevent discomfort.
Reach the Exam Centre Early
- Plan your route and leave early to avoid last-minute delays.
- Arrive at least 30–45 minutes before the reporting time.
- Use the extra time to relax and settle down.
Stay Calm Before the Exam Starts
- Practice deep breathing to reduce anxiety.
- Use positive self-talk: remind yourself of your preparation and capabilities.
- Avoid discussing questions with other students to keep your focus intact.
Time Management During the Exam
With 200 questions and a time limit of 3 hours and 20 minutes, proper time management is crucial.
Suggested time allocation:
- Biology: 80 minutes
- Chemistry: 60 minutes
- Physics: 60 minutes
Quick Tips:
- Start with your strongest subject.
- Skip tough questions and come back later.
- Reserve the last few minutes for review.
Read Questions Carefully
- Understand each question fully before answering.
- Pay attention to keywords like “not,” “except,” or “incorrect.”
- Evaluate all answer options before marking.
Use the OMR Sheet Correctly
- Use only a blue or black ballpoint pen (no pencils).
- Fill the answer bubbles clearly and completely.
- Double-check question numbers to avoid marking errors.
Maintain a Positive Attitude Throughout
- Stay focused on your own paper, not others.
- Trust your preparation and believe in yourself.
- Take short mental breaks by closing your eyes or taking deep breaths if needed
Things to Avoid on Exam Day
- Don’t try to cram new information.
- Don’t carry unauthorized items like mobile phones, calculators, or notes.
- Don’t rush– take your time to answer carefully.
- Don’t panic or overthink if a question seems hard.
Quick Last-Minute Revision Tips
- Go through important formulas, diagrams, and definitions.
- Focus only on well-revised concepts.
- Avoid any heavy revision- just refresh your memory.
Stay Mentally Strong
- Keep your mind clear and your goals in focus.
- Remember why you’re taking this exam- it’s a step toward your dream.
- Doubts are normal- acknowledge them but don’t let them control you.