How to Prepare for CBSE Board Exams and CUET Together: A Practical Guide
Learn how Class 12 students can prepare for both CBSE board exams and CUET entrance tests together using smart study strategies, NCERT books, and time-tested Japanese memory techniques.
AC Team
The CBSE Class 10 and 12 board exams start on 17th February. Students have limited time left to prepare. In this situation, smart study methods and proper revision become the keys to success.
Class 12 students face an additional challenge. Right after board exams finish, they need to prepare for entrance exams like CUET. The good news? You can prepare for both at the same time with the right approach.
What is CUET and Why Does It Matter
The National Testing Agency conducts CUET every year for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate courses. The exam covers 48 central universities, 36 state universities, 26 deemed universities, and 113 private universities. Your CUET score determines your admission to major universities across India.
5 Japanese Techniques to Remember Chapters in 15 Minutes
These simple methods can help you memorize content faster and retain it longer.
1. Kaidan Hoshiki (Step by Step Learning)
Don't read entire chapters in one go. Break them into small parts and understand them one by one. This reduces stress and improves understanding.
2. Active Recall
Read a section, close your book, and try to recall what you just read in your own words. This makes your brain retain information faster.
3. Visualization and Mnemonics
Turn what you read into mental pictures or short stories. Your brain remembers images better than plain text.
4. Ondoku (Reading Aloud)
Read important points out loud in a light rhythm. Hearing your own voice helps you remember things quickly.
5. Jiko Setsumei (Teach Yourself)
Study as if you are teaching someone else. If you can explain a concept in simple language, you have understood it well.
What Students Should Do Now
Focus on NCERT books for your preparation. These books form the foundation for both board exams and CUET. Solve mock tests and previous year papers regularly.
After each test, analyse your mistakes. This helps you identify weak areas and work on them. Practice writing long answers for board exams. At the same time, practice solving MCQs quickly for CUET.
Understanding the CUET Exam Structure
CUET has three main sections.
Language Section
This includes 13 languages like English, Hindi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Urdu, and Assamese. Most universities make this section mandatory. The focus stays on reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary.
Domain Subjects
Choose subjects you are studying in Class 12, such as Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Economics, or Accountancy. You can select three domain subjects along with one language paper.
General Aptitude Test
This covers general knowledge, reasoning, and basic maths. Not all universities require this section.
Expert Tips from CUET Specialist Paresh Gupta
Taking one language paper remains essential, whether English or Hindi. Start reading a little every day and learn 10 new words daily. You can do this alongside your board exam preparation.
In CUET, you select only three domain subjects along with English. Focus on the subjects you need for college admission. Some subjects have slightly different syllabi from the board. For example, Accountancy includes some additional topics. Economics asks questions from both Class 11 and 12 syllabi.
Reading NCERT books becomes most important for success. Board exams require long written answers. CUET uses MCQ format. Practice solving questions at speed.
Board exams now include more case studies and competency questions. The same pattern appears in CUET. When you study NCERT properly, you prepare for both exams together.
How to Manage Language Preparation
Language preparation needs consistent effort. Read different types of passages every day. Work on grammar rules and practice vocabulary daily. This steady approach helps more than last minute cramming.
Many students ignore the language section, thinking it requires no preparation. This becomes a mistake. Regular practice gives you speed and accuracy.
Time Management Strategies
Create a study schedule that covers both board and CUET preparation. Dedicate morning hours to tough subjects when your mind stays fresh. Use afternoon slots for revision and practice tests.
Take short breaks between study sessions. Your brain needs rest to process information. A five minute break after every 30 minutes of study improves focus.
Making the Most of NCERT Books
NCERT books contain everything you need for both exams. Read each chapter carefully. Make notes of important points. Solve all the questions at the end of each chapter.
Many students look for additional reference books. These can help, but only after you master NCERT content. Build your foundation first, then add extra material if needed.
Practice Makes Perfect
Download previous year question papers for both board exams and CUET. Solve these papers under timed conditions. This helps you manage exam pressure and improve speed.
Join online test series if possible. These give you a real exam experience. You learn to handle different question patterns and difficulty levels.
The key lies in consistent preparation. Start now, follow a structured approach, and practice regularly. Success in both board exams and CUET becomes achievable when you prepare smart, not just hard.
