The Fear of Starting Late: “I’m Already Behind”
If you’ve just passed Class 12 and feel like you're starting from nothing — confused, anxious, and wondering how to even begin CUET prep — take a deep breath. You’re not too late. You’re not behind. You're just beginning now.
This article is a complete roadmap to help you prepare for CUET from scratch — even if you feel lost in all subjects. You’ll learn what to study, how to study, and get a weekly study schedule to help you stay on track.
What is CUET and Why is it Important?
The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is an all-India level entrance exam for undergraduate admissions in top central and participating universities, including Delhi University, BHU, JNU, AMU, and more.
CUET Structure:
- Section 1 (Language): English or regional language
- Section 2 (Domain Subjects): Subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, etc.
- Section 3 (General Test): Logical reasoning, GK, quantitative aptitude
You can choose up to 6 domain subjects, 1 language, and 1 general test depending on the course/university requirements.
Where to Begin: Your First Month Strategy (From “Zero” to “Ready”)
Step 1: Know What You’re Applying For
- Decide your target course: BSc, BA, BCom, etc.
- Shortlist universities: DU, BHU, JNU, etc.
- Check subject combinations required: For BSc Biology, you’ll need Biology + Chemistry + General Test, for example.
Step 2: Understand the CUET Syllabus
Download the CUET syllabus from NTA's official site. Compare it with your Class 12 NCERT syllabus — they mostly overlap.
Step 3: Collect Study Materials
Start with what you already have:
- NCERT Books (Class 12 and Class 11 if needed)
- Arihant or MTG CUET guides
- Past Year CUET papers (from 2022, 2023)
Subject-Wise Study Plan from Scratch
English Language Section
Topics to Focus On:
- Reading comprehension
- Vocabulary (synonyms/antonyms)
- Sentence correction and rearrangement
- Idioms and phrases
How to Learn:
- Read English newspapers for 30 mins/day
- Learn 5–10 new words daily with meanings and usage
- Solve CUET English sample papers from Arihant
Domain Subjects (e.g., Biology, Political Science, Accountancy)
Pick subjects based on your intended course.
Biology: Stick to NCERT, especially diagrams and one-liners.
Political Science: Understand key constitutional principles and events.
Accountancy/Economics: Focus on basic formulas, numerical solving, and CBSE-style application questions.
General Test
Topics Covered:
- Logical reasoning
- General knowledge
- Current affairs
- Basic math (till Class 10)
How to Prepare:
- Use a General Test guide like Arihant/Oswal
- Read a monthly GK PDF (Jagran Josh/Drishti)
- Practice quantitative reasoning daily (ratios, averages, percentages)
CUET Weekly Study Schedule (90 Days)
| Week | Focus Area | Daily Time Allocation | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Subject Syllabus Mapping + NCERT Basics | 6 hrs | Read 2 chapters of domain subject/day, start vocabulary |
| 3-5 | Full Subject Revision Round 1 | 7 hrs | Complete first cycle of NCERT + first mocks |
| 6-8 | MCQ Practice + Sectional Tests | 8 hrs | Solve PYQs, begin 2 mocks/week |
| 9-11 | Full-Length Mock Tests | 8–9 hrs | Give 3 full CUET mocks/week |
| 12 | Final Revision | 6 hrs | Focus on weak areas, high-weight topics |
Study Routine (Daily Timetable)
Morning (8–11 AM)
- Domain subject reading (NCERT)
- Vocabulary + English grammar (30 mins)
Midday (12–2 PM)
- Logical reasoning + GK quiz
- Topic-wise mock test (1-hour)
Evening (4–6 PM)
- Revise subject formulas/theory
- Watch 1–2 YouTube revision videos
Night (8–9 PM)
- Revise your mistakes from mock tests
- Light newspaper reading
Smart Study Tips for CUET Beginners
- Start slow, stay consistent: 6 focused hours/day > 12 distracted hours
- Don’t over-collect material: Stick to 1 book per subject
- Revise daily: The brain forgets quickly. Revisit difficult concepts.
- Mock tests > Rote learning: Practice the CUET format from early on
- Use digital tools:
- Notion for notes
- Quora/PDF drive for PYQs
- Telegram channels for daily quizzes
What to Avoid During CUET Prep
- Don’t panic seeing toppers' scores online.
- Avoid switching books every week.
- Don’t wait for coaching. Self-study + focus = success.
- Don’t underestimate General Test and English. They’re high-scoring!
Can You Crack CUET From Zero?
Absolutely. CUET is about:
- Smart question-solving
- NCERT accuracy
- Time management
Many students crack CUET with just 2–3 months of serious preparation. Your edge will come from daily discipline, not perfect memory.
FAQs
Q: I haven’t studied anything in Class 12. Can I still prepare for CUET now?
Yes. CUET is based on Class 12 NCERT. If you start today with a 90-day plan, you can complete syllabus + mocks on time.
Q: Is coaching necessary for CUET?
No. With NCERT + CUET guidebooks + online YouTube classes, you can easily prepare from home.
Q: Which section is most scoring?
Biology, Political Science, Psychology, and English are considered high scoring if you master NCERT + practice MCQs.
Q: How many hours should I study daily?
Start with 5–6 hrs/day, gradually increase to 8 hrs/day closer to the exam.
Q: Can I skip the General Test?
Only if your target university/course doesn’t require it. Always check the university’s eligibility requirements first.
