Preparing for board and entrance exams together can feel overwhelming. With a smart plan and consistent effort, you can excel in both. This guide shares study hacks for board and entrance exams to help you manage time, improve focus, and maximise results efficiently.
1. Common Topics Between Board and Entrance Exams
Identify overlapping syllabus topics. Physics, chemistry, biology, and maths share about 70% of content. Focus on these areas to save time.
Tip: Use NCERT for concept clarity and solve MCQs for entrance exams.
2. Follow the 3:2 Study Ratio
Use the 3:2 study ratio: spend three hours on board topics and two hours on entrance prep daily. On weekends, reverse the ratio to focus more on entrance mock tests and problem-solving. This balances preparation effectively.
3. Morning for Concepts, Evening for Revision
Morning hours are ideal for entrance problem-solving, while evenings work best for board revision.
Example Schedule:
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6 AM – 9 AM: Entrance question practice
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5 PM – 8 PM: Board notes and revisions
This structure keeps your mind fresh and improves retention.
4. Create a Weekly Micro Plan
Break goals into achievable targets. A weekly study plan improves consistency.
Sample Plan:
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Monday–Friday: Board chapters + Entrance practice
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Saturday: Full-length entrance mock test
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Sunday: Revision + light rest
Use tools like Google Calendar or Notion to track your schedule.
5. Focus on Concept Understanding
Boards reward memorisation, but entrance exams require concept clarity. Understand formulas, mechanisms, and problem-solving logic. Use diagrams and flowcharts for better retention.
6. NCERT Is the Key Resource
For both boards and entrance exams, NCERT is essential. Most questions in NEET and JEE are derived from NCERT concepts.
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Highlight definitions and key points
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Make short summaries of chapters
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Revise at least one chapter daily
7. Practise Mock Tests Regularly
Regular practice boosts confidence. Take one board-style test and one entrance mock test weekly. Analyse mistakes and track improvement areas. Consistent mock tests enhance speed and accuracy.
8. Apply the 50-10 Study Rule
Study for 50 minutes and take a 10-minute break. Short breaks prevent fatigue, recharge your mind, and maintain focus. Avoid phones during breaks to protect concentration.
9. Stay Consistent Every Day
Consistency is more important than intensity. Studying a few hours daily is better than long cramming sessions. Track daily goals and maintain a steady pace for long-term success.
10. Use Online Tools Smartly
Leverage technology for efficient learning. Platforms like Shiksha Nation, Khan Academy, and Physics Wallah provide structured lessons and mock tests for board and entrance exams.
Check out the Shiksha Nation NEET 2026 Crash Course for live classes, doubt-solving sessions, and practice tests.
Conclusion
Managing board and entrance exams is about strategy and consistency. Following these study hacks for board and entrance exams helps you stay focused, manage time efficiently, and achieve high scores. Smart, consistent effort beats last-minute cramming every time.