15 Steps to Crack UGC NET in 2025

The UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) is one of the most important exams for students who want to become Assistant Professors or secure Junior Research Fellowships (JRF) in India. It is a dream for many to clear this exam and build a strong career in academics and research. However, succeeding in UGC NET is not easy. It requires dedication, smart planning, and the right approach.

In this blog, we will explain in simple words what it really takes to succeed in the UGC NET exam. Whether you are just starting or you have already tried before, these tips and insights will help you move closer to success.

Join Ardas Classes Now

India's Best UGC NET Coaching Centre

Start Now

1. Understanding the UGC NET Exam Structure

Before starting preparation, it is very important to understand the exam structure.

The UGC NET exam has two papers:

Paper 1: It is common for all candidates. It tests your teaching and research aptitude, reasoning ability, comprehension, communication skills, and general awareness. It has 50 questions (each for 2 marks).
Paper 2: This paper is based on the subject you have chosen (like English, Commerce, Political Science, etc.). It has 100 questions (each for 2 marks).

Both papers are conducted in a single session of three hours. There is no negative marking

Key Point: You need to qualify both Paper 1 and Paper 2 to clear the UGC NET exam.

Also Read - How Study Groups Can Help You Prepare Better for UGC NET

2. Choose the Right Subject

UGC NET offers more than 80 subjects. It is very important to choose the right subject according to your post-graduation degree or your interest area. Choose a subject where you feel confident and have a strong foundation.

Tip: Before finalizing the subject, check the syllabus and previous year's papers to understand the difficulty level.

Join Ardas Classes Now

India's Best PGT, TGT & PRT Coaching Centre

Start Now

3. Know the Complete Syllabus

The next important step is to know the complete syllabus for both Paper 1 and Paper 2. UGC releases the syllabus on its official website.

Many students make the mistake of preparing only some parts of the syllabus. To succeed, you must cover the entire syllabus.

Action Plan:

Download the latest syllabus.
Divide it into small topics.
Prepare a checklist to track your progress.

Also Read - Tips to Improve Speed and Accuracy in UGC NET Exam

4. Make a Smart Study Plan

Clearing UGC NET is not just about studying hard — it’s about studying smart.

You need a realistic study plan. This plan should cover all topics, allow enough time for revision, and include mock tests.

How to Make a Good Study Plan:

Set daily, weekly, and monthly targets.
Study Paper 1 and Paper 2 together.
Reserve at least 2-3 hours daily initially and increase it gradually.
Keep one day every week for revision.

Important: Be consistent. Even if you study 3 hours daily with full concentration, it is more effective than studying 10 hours without focus.

5. Strong Focus on Paper 1

Many students focus only on Paper 2 because it is subject-based. However, Paper 1 is equally important and can make a big difference.

Paper 1 topics like teaching aptitude, research methodology, logical reasoning, data interpretation, and environment studies need regular practice.

Tip:

Practice mock tests for Paper 1 weekly.
Solve previous year's questions of Paper 1.
Improve your reading speed and comprehension skills.

6. Understand Concepts, Don't Just Mug Up

UGC NET questions are not based on memorization. They test your understanding of concepts.

Especially in Paper 2, you must understand theories, models, and important studies deeply. The more you understand, the better you will be able to handle tricky questions.

Golden Rule: Understand -> Revise -> Apply (Practice questions)

7. Practice Previous Year Papers

Previous year question papers are like treasure for UGC NET aspirants.

Benefits of solving previous papers:

You understand the exam pattern.
You learn about the type of questions asked.
You improve speed and accuracy.

Action Step:

Solve at least the last 5-10 years’ papers.
Analyze your mistakes after each test.

8. Regular Revision Is the Key

The UGC NET syllabus is huge. Without regular revision, you will forget what you studied.

Best Revision Techniques:

Make short notes for every topic.
Revise important formulas, dates, theories, and definitions weekly.
Use mind maps and flow charts for quick revision.

Pro Tip: Spend at least 1 hour daily for revision in the last 2 months before the exam.

9. Mock Tests Are Must

Mock tests prepare you for the real exam environment. They help you manage time, handle pressure, and build confidence.

How to Use Mock Tests:

Start giving one mock test per week after completing 50% of the syllabus.
Increase it to 3-4 tests per week as the exam approaches.
After each test, analyze your weak areas and work on them.

10. Stay Updated With Current Affairs (Especially for Paper 1)

General Awareness and Current Affairs form a part of Paper 1. Make it a habit to:

Read daily news headlines.
Follow updates related to education, technology, environment, and government policies.

Tip: Prepare a small notebook for current affairs notes.

11. Manage Your Time Well

Time management is important during preparation and in the exam.

During Preparation:

Follow your study plan honestly.
Avoid wasting time on social media and unnecessary distractions.

During Exam:

Attempt easy questions first.
Don’t spend too much time on one question.
Keep track of time after every 20-30 questions.

12. Stay Motivated and Positive

Preparing for UGC NET can sometimes feel stressful and exhausting. It's normal to feel low, but don’t give up.

How to Stay Motivated:

Set small achievable goals and reward yourself.
Visualize your success.
Talk to fellow aspirants and teachers for guidance.
Take small breaks and practice meditation or light exercise.

Remember: "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts."

13. Take Care of Your Health

Good health supports better preparation.

Sleep for at least 6-7 hours daily.
Eat healthy food.
Stay hydrated.
Exercise lightly or take small walks to refresh your mind.

Never compromise your health for the sake of long study hours.

14. Learn From Others' Experiences

You can learn a lot from people who have cleared UGC NET. Watch interviews, read blogs, and join online communities.

Learn about:

Their study strategies.
How they handled tough times.
Mistakes they avoided.

It can save you from making common mistakes.

15. Believe in Yourself

Last but not least — Believe in yourself.

Many students fail not because they lack knowledge, but because they lose confidence.

Remember, every topper was once a beginner. If they can do it, you can too.

Stay committed, stay confident, and give your best effort.

Final Thoughts

Succeeding in the UGC NET exam is a journey that demands smart planning, hard work, and patience. It’s not about studying 15 hours a day but about studying the right way every day.

Let’s quickly recap what it takes:

Understand the exam structure.
Choose the right subject.
Know the complete syllabus.
Make and follow a smart study plan.
Focus on both Paper 1 and Paper 2.
Practice, revise, and give mock tests.
Stay updated with current affairs.
Take care of your health and motivation.

Most importantly — Believe in yourself and keep moving forward.

Your dream of becoming an Assistant Professor or a Research Fellow is waiting for you. Start today, and success will surely follow!

All the Best for Your UGC NET Journey!

FAQs

1. How much time is enough to prepare for the UGC NET exam?

Ideally, 5–6 months of dedicated preparation is enough to crack the UGC NET exam. However, the exact time depends on your current preparation level, subject knowledge, and daily study routine.

2. Is Paper 1 important for clearing UGC NET?

Yes, Paper 1 is very important. It carries 100 marks and focuses on teaching aptitude, reasoning, and general awareness. A good score in Paper 1 can significantly boost your overall result.

3. Can I prepare for UGC NET without coaching?

Yes, many students successfully clear UGC NET through self-study. With the right strategy, good study material, previous year papers, and regular practice, you can easily prepare without coaching.

4. How many times can I attempt the UGC NET exam?

There is no limit on the number of attempts for the UGC NET exam for the Assistant Professor post. However, for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), there is an age limit (up to 30 years for general category, with relaxations for reserved categories).

5. What are the best books for UGC NET Paper 1 preparation?

Some popular books for Paper 1 include: