Introduction
The State Eligibility Test (SET) is a highly competitive exam that determines a candidate’s eligibility for the post of assistant professor in various universities and colleges across India. The exam is conducted by the respective state government or state-level agency. Clearing the SET exam opens doors to excellent career opportunities in the field of higher education. However, preparing for the exam can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to it.
In this article, we will discuss some effective tips and tricks to help you prepare for the SET exam and ace it with confidence.
Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The first and foremost step in preparing for the SET exam is to understand the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly. The SET exam comprises two papers: Paper I and Paper II. Paper I consists of 50 objective-type questions on general awareness, teaching and research aptitude, and reasoning ability. Paper II comprises 100 questions based on the subject chosen by the candidate.
The total duration of the exam is 3 hours. It is essential to understand the weightage of each topic and the marking scheme to plan your preparation strategy effectively.
Create a Study Plan to Prepare for State Eligibility Test (SET)
Once you have a clear understanding of the exam pattern and syllabus, the next step is to create a study plan. A well-planned study schedule will help you cover all the topics and subtopics efficiently, leaving you with enough time for revision and practice. Here are some tips to create an effective study plan:
- Allocate more time to topics that carry more weight.
- Break down the syllabus into smaller subtopics and assign specific time slots for each.
- Prioritize topics that you find difficult or unfamiliar.
- Set realistic goals and deadlines to avoid last-minute cramming.
Refer to Quality Study Material
To prepare effectively for the SET exam, it is crucial to refer to quality study material. Choose textbooks and reference books that cover the entire syllabus and provide detailed explanations and examples. Reading newspapers and magazines can help you stay updated with the latest news and current affairs, which is an essential component of Paper I. Make use of online resources such as e-books, video lectures, and online study material to supplement your learning.
Practice Mock Tests and Previous Year’s Question Papers
One of the best ways to prepare for the SET exam is to practice mock tests and the previous year’s question papers. Mock tests help you get familiar with the exam pattern and the types of questions asked. It also helps you identify your weak areas and work on them. Previous year’s question papers give you an idea of the difficulty level of the exam and the types of questions that are frequently asked. Practice as many mock tests and previous year question papers as possible to boost your confidence and increase your chances of success.
Time Management
Time management is a critical aspect of preparing for the SET exam. With 150 questions to be answered in 3 hours, time management plays a crucial role in determining your success. Here are some tips for effective time management during the exam:
- Divide your time equally between Paper I and Paper II.
- Answer the easy questions first and then move on to the difficult ones.
- Avoid spending too much time on a single question.
- Keep a track of time while answering each question.
- Avoid leaving any questions unanswered as there is no negative marking in the exam.
Stay Calm and Focused
Preparing for a competitive exam like the SET can be stressful and overwhelming. It is essential to stay calm and focused to avoid burnout. Here are some tips to help you stay calm and focused during your SET exam preparation:
- Take short breaks between study sessions to refresh your mind.
- Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to reduce stress.
- Avoid multitasking and focus on one task at a time.
- Set aside some time for hobbies or activities that you enjoy.
- Surround yourself with positive and supportive people.
6-Month Study Plan for SET Paper 1 Exam Preparation
Month | Topics to be Covered | Study Material | Practice |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Solve Previous Year’s Question Papers | Trueman’s UGC NET/SET General Paper I – Teaching & Research Aptitude by M. Gagan | Solve previous year question papers |
UGC NET/SET (JRF & LS) – General Paper-1 Teaching and Research Aptitude by Arihant Experts | Attempt Mock Tests | ||
NTA UGC NET/SET/JRF – Paper 1: Teaching and Research Aptitude by Pearson | |||
2 | Research Aptitude | Trueman’s UGC NET/SET General Paper I – Teaching & Research Aptitude by M. Gagan | Solve previous year question papers |
UGC NET/SET (JRF & LS) – General Paper-1 Teaching and Research Aptitude by Arihant Experts | Attempt Mock Tests | ||
NTA UGC NET/SET/JRF – Paper 1: Teaching and Research Aptitude by Pearson | |||
3 | Reading Comprehension, Communication, Reasoning | A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal | Solve Previous Year Question Papers |
High School English Grammar and Composition by Wren and Martin | Attempt Mock Tests | ||
4 | Data Interpretation, People and Environment, Higher Education System: Governance, Polity and Administration | SET/NET Exam for Lectureship – Objective Type Questions by Upkar Prakashan | Solve Previous Year’s Question Papers |
NTA UGC NET/SET/JRF – Paper 1: Teaching and Research Aptitude by Pearson | Attempt Mock Tests | ||
5 | Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Logical Reasoning, and Mathematical Reasoning | A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal | Solve Previous Year’s Question Papers |
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by R.S. Aggarwal | Attempt Mock Tests | ||
6 | General Awareness | Manorama Yearbook 2022 by Mammen Mathew | Solve Previous Year Question Papers |
Pratiyogita Darpan Yearbook 2022 | Attempt Mock Tests |
Conclusion
The above table presents a six-month study plan for the SET Paper 1 exam. The plan covers all the topics in the SET Paper 1 syllabus and includes study material and practice tests. Candidates should follow the plan consistently and revise regularly to ensure success in the SET Paper 1 exam. It is advisable to customize the plan based on individual strengths and weaknesses and allocate more time to topics that need more attention. With dedication, hard work, and the right study plan, candidates can crack the SET Paper 1 exam and pursue their career goals.
FAQs
What are the eligibility criteria for the SET exam?
The eligibility criteria for the SET exam vary from state to state. Generally, candidates with a Master’s degree or its equivalent with at least 55% aggregate marks are eligible to apply for the exam.
What is the application process for the SET exam?
The application process for the SET exam is online. Candidates need to visit the official website of the respective state-level agency and fill in the application form.
Is there a negative marking in the SET exam?
No, there is no negative marking in the SET exam.
How many times can I attempt the SET exam?
The number of attempts allowed for the SET exam varies from state to state. Generally, there is no limit on the number of attempts.
Conclusion
Preparing for the State Eligibility Test (SET) requires dedication, hard work, and effective planning. Understanding the exam pattern and syllabus, creating a study plan, referring to quality study material, practising mock tests and previous year question papers, time management, and staying calm and focused are some of the essential steps to prepare effectively for the exam.
By following these tips and tricks, you can increase your chances of success and achieve your career goals. Remember, success is not just about clearing the exam; it’s about the journey and the effort you put into it.
So, keep striving and keep learning. All the best for your SET exam!