M S K Manohar, AIR 5, JEE Advanced 2018 chats with Brainfeed Higher Education Plus about his preparation techniques for competitive examinations
Q. What challenges did you face hailing from a village and how did you overcome them?
I was studying in government school till tenth class. My parents couldn’t afford much to admit me in a private college. I had appeared for many examinations after passing tenth standard, however, I was selected as one of the FIITJEE’s Fortunate 40. This life changing exam helped me get 100 percent scholarship for coaching in JEE at FIITJEE Vijayawada. I am grateful to my parents, teachers and all well-wishers who helped me in achieving my goals.
Q. When did you start your JEE Advanced preparation?
I started JEE preparation in my Intermediate first year. I just followed the schedule of FIITJEE and guidelines of the faculties. I focused on getting complete grip over the basic concepts of the topics taught, as soon as I could and did not keep floating in any part of the topic.
Q. How extensively did you practice Mock Test Papers and Sample Papers?
Initially, we used to have two tests a week which increased as the exam approached. Solving previous years’ papers helped us to get awareness of the kind of questions that are being asked, which also relieved exam tension to some extent and boosted confidence in me. They also help us know our areas of concern and helps strengthen them.
Q. Did you face any problem during the JEE Advanced examination?
I couldnot manage time much time for the second paper. I felt that Physics was the easiest and Maths was the toughest in JEE Advanced. I recommend to students to initially skip the questions they are stuck or those which are too lengthy and go for the rest and come back to solve them later.
Q. What do you think are the key factors behind your stupendous success in JEE Advanced?
Self-confidence, excellent preparatory environment, guidance, support of parents, teachers, peers and not giving up are some key factors for my success.
Q. What are your other academic achievements?
I am a KVPY scholar and INChO participant.