How to Improve Your Performance in INICET/NEET by Dr. Ravi Sharma | Cerebellum Academy

Summary

In this motivational speech, the speaker emphasizes that success is not just about hard work but about performance and smart execution, particularly during exams. Drawing from personal experience, the speaker provides practical strategies for exam preparation, including effective time management, focusing on key details, and minimizing mistakes. Techniques such as skimming, using the 'finger of pointing' method, and eliminating incorrect answers are discussed to help improve reading speed and accuracy. The key takeaway is that performance under pressure, coupled with strategic planning and a focused mindset, leads to success, rather than just sheer effort alone.

Takeaways

• 😀 Focus on **execution**, not just hard work. Success depends on how well you perform during the exam, not on the amount of effort you put in.
• ⏳ Time management is key. Regularly check your progress every 30 minutes during the exam to stay on track and ensure you're pacing well.
• 📖 **Skim read**, don’t read everything. Focus on key terms, keywords, and the last line of questions to find the core of the query quickly.
• 🔍 When unsure about an answer, eliminate at least two options. If you're left with two options, make an educated guess. Don't spend too much time on difficult questions.
• 🧠 **Mindset is everything**. It's not about comparing yourself to others but about how well you can manage the pressure and perform on the day.
• 🎯 Set **realistic targets** for studying. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks rather than attempting to tackle large volumes all at once.
• 💡 Practice and **develop reading speed**. Regular practice will help you read faster and retain key information, which is essential for success in exams.
• 🚫 **Avoid tunnel vision**. Don’t get overly fixated on one or two words in a question. Read the entire question carefully to avoid making silly mistakes.
• ✋ Use a **finger or pointer** to track the question as you read. This helps you stay focused and improves reading speed during the exam.
• 📉 Don’t be afraid to leave questions blank if you're unsure and don’t waste too much time on them. Focus on the questions you know well.
• 🏆 Success comes from **performance**. Exams are performance tests, so stay calm, manage your time, and execute your plan effectively for the best results.

Q & A

What was the key lesson the speaker learned during their time at the Mayo Clinic in 2012?

The key lesson the speaker learned was that life is not about hard work or knowledge alone, but about performance. Hard work is important, but it's not enough if you don't perform well under pressure.

How does the speaker suggest handling exam pressure and improving performance?

The speaker suggests developing a strong plan, a good temperament to handle exams, resilience to pressure, and a focus on execution. This includes pacing yourself, being aware of your progress, and adjusting your strategy during the exam.

What does the speaker mean by 'execution' in the context of exams?

Execution refers to the ability to apply your preparation effectively during the exam, managing your time, and handling challenges like difficult questions with the right strategies.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of setting small targets when studying for exams?

Small, achievable targets help prevent overloading the brain and ensure more focused, effective study. Large targets can overwhelm students, leading to ineffective studying and poor performance.

What is the recommended strategy for managing time during an exam?

The speaker advises checking your progress every 30 minutes to ensure you're on track, aiming for 40 questions in 30 minutes. This helps you adjust your pace and avoid running out of time.

What role does 'glancing' play in improving reading speed during exams?

Glancing, or quickly skimming through the text, helps you identify key words and concepts without getting bogged down by irrelevant details. This technique increases reading speed and efficiency.

What is 'visual regression,' and how can it negatively impact exam performance?

Visual regression is the tendency to go back and reread parts of a question or text, which wastes time and reduces overall efficiency. It's important to read questions fully the first time and avoid unnecessary rereading.

How does the 'finger-pointing technique' help with reading speed and focus?

By using a finger or pen to guide your reading, this technique helps you stay focused, prevents distractions, and ensures you keep a steady pace, making your reading faster and more effective.

What is the strategy for handling multiple-choice questions when unsure about the answer?

The speaker recommends eliminating two of the options, then focusing on the remaining choices to improve your chances of selecting the correct answer. If you're unsure about the question, it's better to leave it rather than risk choosing the wrong answer.

Why is it crucial to avoid comparing yourself to others during exam preparation?

Comparing yourself to others can lead to feelings of inadequacy and distract you from your own unique strengths. The speaker emphasizes focusing on personal progress and strategy, rather than on what others are doing.