The University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) is one of the most prestigious competitive exams in India, conducted to determine eligibility for Assistant Professor or Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges. Cracking the UGC NET exam on the first attempt requires a smart strategy, consistent efforts, and the right resources.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through proven UGC NET preparation tips that have helped thousands of aspirants clear the exam successfully. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone giving it another go, these tips will boost your confidence and streamline your study plan.
Table of Contents
- What is UGC NET?
- UGC NET Exam Pattern
- Top UGC NET Preparation Tips
- Best Books and Resources
- Final Revision and Exam Day Strategy
- FAQs
- What is UGC NET?
The UGC NET is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for more than 80 subjects in humanities, commerce, management, and social sciences. The exam determines the eligibility of candidates for:
- Assistant Professor
- Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) & Assistant Professor
The exam is held twice a year, and lakhs of candidates appear in each cycle, making the competition quite intense.
- UGC NET Exam Pattern
Before diving into preparation tips, let’s understand the exam structure:
| Paper | Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
| Paper I | General Teaching & Research Aptitude | 50 | 100 | 1 hour |
| Paper II | Subject-specific | 100 | 200 | 2 hours |
Both papers are conducted in a single session and there’s no negative marking.
- Top UGC NET Preparation Tips
- Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly
Start by downloading the latest UGC NET syllabus from the official NTA website. Divide it into smaller modules and create a roadmap for each topic. Prioritize important topics based on past years’ trends.
Tip: Paper I is common for all and tests general aptitude. Paper II is subject-specific, so tailor your preparation accordingly.
- Analyze Previous Year Papers
Solving previous year UGC NET question papers gives insight into:
- The exam pattern
- Important topics
- Difficulty level
Spend time identifying frequently asked questions and recurring concepts. It also helps you manage time better.
- Create a Realistic Study Schedule
Set achievable daily and weekly goals. A typical 3–4 month preparation plan includes:
- First 2 months: Syllabus completion with notes
- Next 1 month: Revision and mock tests
- Last few weeks: Practice and final brushing-up
Ensure you study at least 4–6 hours daily, focusing on quality over quantity.
- Refer to Standard Books and Online Resources
Avoid jumping between too many books. Stick to recommended resources and NTA’s official mock papers. For Paper I, books by KVS Madaan and Trueman’s are popular. For Paper II, refer to university-level textbooks or Arihant Publications based on your subject.
- Make Short Notes and Mind Maps
While reading, make handwritten notes for quick revision. Mind maps help in visual learning and retention, especially for Paper I concepts like research methodology, teaching aptitude, and data interpretation.
- Attempt Mock Tests Regularly
Take full-length mock tests at least twice a week during the last phase of preparation. This helps:
- Improve speed and accuracy
- Reduce exam fear
- Identify strong and weak areas
Platforms like Unacademy, BYJU’s Exam Prep, and Gradeup offer quality mock tests and UGC NET test series.
- Join a Study Group or Coaching (Optional)
A study group helps you stay motivated and learn through discussion. If you’re struggling with self-discipline, consider online UGC NET coaching for structured preparation and mentorship.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs
Although UGC NET is not a general awareness exam, Paper I sometimes includes questions on higher education, policy changes, and governance. Keep an eye on educational news and UGC updates.
- Focus on Time Management During the Exam
Practice solving both papers within the allotted time. Use a stopwatch during mock tests. Don’t spend more than 1 minute per question. If unsure, skip and return later—there’s no negative marking!
- Stay Positive and Healthy
Mental and physical health impacts your performance. Get enough sleep, eat nutritious food, and take short breaks during study. Practice meditation or light exercise to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Best Books and Resources for UGC NET
Here’s a list of top-rated books by toppers and experts:
For Paper I:
- “Teaching and Research Aptitude” by KVS Madaan – Good for concept clarity
- Trueman’s UGC NET Paper I – Comprehensive coverage
- Arihant’s UGC NET Paper I – With practice sets and previous questions
For Paper II:
Depends on your subject (Commerce, English, Political Science, etc.), but good options include:
- Arihant Series for UGC NET Paper II
- IGNOU Notes (if available for your subject)
- NTA NET curated material by reputed coaching platforms
- Final Revision and Exam Day Strategy
Last 10-Day Plan:
- Focus only on revision and mocks
- Don’t try to learn new topics
- Review all your short notes and highlighted parts
- Take one full mock test daily and analyze mistakes
Exam Day Tips:
- Reach the center early
- Carry a printed admit card and ID proof
- Stay calm and focused; trust your preparation
- FAQs – UGC NET Preparation
Q1: How many hours should I study daily for UGC NET?
Ans: Ideally, 4–6 focused hours per day with a mix of reading, note-making, and test practice.
Q2: Is coaching necessary for UGC NET?
Ans: Not necessarily. Many candidates clear it through self-study using the right resources and mock tests.
Q3: Can I clear UGC NET in 3 months?
Ans: Yes, with a disciplined study plan, you can complete the syllabus and revise effectively in 3 months.
Q4: How many times can I attempt UGC NET?
Ans: Unlimited attempts for Assistant Professor; for JRF, the age limit is 30 years (with relaxation for reserved categories).
Final Thoughts
Cracking the UGC NET exam is not just about hard work but smart work. Stay consistent, keep your resources limited but effective, and track your progress regularly. With the right mindset and preparation, you can definitely clear the exam in your first attempt.
All the best for your UGC NET journey!