Excelling in CUET UG: Insights from Miranda House Topper Anika Joshi

In the competitive landscape of Common University Entrance Test Undergraduate (CUET UG), excelling requires more than just academic prowess. Anika Joshi, the 2022 CUET UG topper and current BA History (Hons) student at Miranda House, University of Delhi, shares her invaluable tips and experiences.

Anika's journey began with dual preparations for board exams and CUET UG. Despite the challenges, she efficiently managed her time, focusing on subjects like English, history, political science, and economics. Her strategic approach involved creating a detailed study schedule and identifying weaknesses through continuous self-assessment.

The key to her success lay in a methodical approach. Anika used an Excel sheet to organize her syllabus, allocating specific time slots for each subject. This meticulous planning allowed her to review her progress daily, facilitating a deeper understanding of her strengths and weaknesses.

Anika emphasizes the significance of being realistic about one's capabilities during preparation. She recommends aspirants take adequate rest, stay calm, and build confidence. The game-changing strategy lies in understanding and leveraging individual strengths during the exam, turning CUET UG into a strategic game of elimination.

Focusing predominantly on NCERT textbooks, Anika stressed their importance in preparing for CUET UG. Additionally, she utilized study materials from Oswal Publications and took advantage of Study Adda's mock tests, which proved instrumental in refining her exam readiness.

For CUET UG 2024 aspirants, Anika offers a set of valuable recommendations:

• Self-compassion: Avoid being harsh on yourself during preparation.
• Confidence during exams: Stay calm, leverage strengths, and manage weaknesses effectively during the exam.
• Focus on NCERTs: Devote attention to NCERT textbooks for a comprehensive understanding.
• Mock tests: Take mock tests seriously to simulate exam conditions.
• Effective planning: Plan your day and adhere to the schedule; analyze deviations to optimize your plan.
• Positive environment: Surround yourself with positive individuals to enhance your motivation and focus.
• Time management: Develop time management skills for both exam preparation and life.

Life at Miranda House has further enriched Anika's academic journey. The college's diverse culture and intellectually stimulating environment have broadened her perspectives. Anika believes that the college experience, shaped by the people you meet, plays a crucial role in personal development.

In her free time, Anika engages in writing and actively participates in various college societies. These extracurricular activities contribute to her holistic development, fostering analytical skills and a sense of empathy. As an aspiring UPSC CSE candidate, Anika spends her free time reading old NCERT books, demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning.

Anika's insights serve as a guiding light for CUET UG aspirants, offering a roadmap to success that extends beyond exams into a fulfilling college life and future endeavors.