How to tackle JEE (Advanced)

JEE (Advanced) is the annual college entrance examination for admission to the IITs. One of the toughest among engineering entrance exams, nearly 1.5 lakh students will appear for this exam, who have been short-listed from JEE (Main). Scheduled to be held on May 25, the exam has two parts: Paper 1 will be given from 9.00 a.m. to noon and Paper 2, from 2.00 p.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Both papers will be of three hours’ duration. Both will consist of three separate sections on Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics. The questions will be objective type (multiple choice) designed to test comprehension, reasoning and analytical ability of candidates. Negative marking scheme will be followed in checking the answer papers.

The candidate can opt for the question paper in English or Hindi.

A subject-wise look

Mathematics: Previous years’ JEE papers suggest that more attention should be paid to topics like Vectors and 3-D than Probability or Indefinite integration. One more chapter to focus on is Complex Numbers. Algebra can be easier if you have the ability to picture functions as graphs and are good at applying vertical and horizontal origin shifts carefully as obtaining zeros of functions and other specific values can be done in much less time using these techniques. Differential calculus again relates well to roots of equations, especially if you use the Rolle’s and Lagrange’s theorems. Complex numbers can be used to solve questions in coordinate geometry too. Applications of De Moivre’s theorem is needed in trigonometry.

When it comes to permutation-combination and probability, you need to be thorough with the basics of Bayes’ theorem, derangements and various ways of distribution, taking care of cases where objects are identical and when they are not. Matrices can be related to equations, hence a 3x3 matrix can actually be visualised as being three-planed in 3-D geometry. Determinants have some very nice properties, for instance, they can be broken into two using a common summand from a row/column. This property should be made use of in tougher questions.

Integral calculus can be simplified using tricks and keeping in mind some basic varieties of integrable functions. Remembering the properties and applying them wisely saves a lot of time. Coordinate geometry requires a good working knowledge of the parametric forms of various conic sections and an ability to convert the other, tougher ones to these basic forms and then interpret the solutions accordingly.

Practise problems keeping in mind the pattern of questions in previous years’ JEE papers.

Chemistry: Conceptual clarity, application skills and awareness of the prescribed syllabus should be the main focus. Practise the most relevant numericals daily, to develop speed. Pay special attention to topics such as Mole concept, chemical equilibrium and electrochemistry. In organic chemistry, give particular attention to topics such as stereochemistry, general organic chemistry and functional group analysis.

In Inorganic chemistry, most of the questions which are asked are really conceptual, concerning structures, processes and applications. Special attention must be paid to topics such as chemical bonding and coordination chemistry.

Physics: Mechanics is one topic that is considered as having less scoring potential by most experts. However, to add to the dilemma, this is also the topic that forms the major portion of the JEE (advanced) in terms of marks. So this topic cannot be neglected. One must also try to concentrate on other scoring topics to ensure a better performance, for example, optics, electricity and magnetism.

Kinematics and particle dynamics are very important topics in mechanics that make a regular appearance in the JEE papers. In fact, according to the general trends, Mechanics and Electricity and Magnetism are the most important topics in terms of the number of questions asked in JEE of previous years.

Thermodynamics is important both in physics and chemistry. It is wise to cover wave optics first as the portion is smaller than “ray optics.

In sum

Stay focused and maintain a positive attitude.

Develop speed. Refer to reputed mock-test series to build a winning exam temperament. Solve the past year’s IIT-JEE papers. Focus on your weak areas and improve upon your concepts.

Practice of JEE level questions is necessary as it improves your reasoning and analytical ability.

Remember, it is quality of time spent and not the quantity alone that matters. Hence give short breaks of 5 to 10 minutes every 1-2 hours of serious study. Completely relax when you take a break. Develop inner calm, poise, confidence and power of concentration.

Don’t overstress yourself. Five to six hours of sleep every night is a must, especially three-four days before IIT-JEE to keep yourself physically and mentally fit. While short naps may help to regain freshness, avoid over-sleeping during the day.

Finally, don’t be nervous if you find the paper tough since it is the relative performance that counts. Put your best analytical mind to work, and believe in your preparation.

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