Expert Guidance on Effective Time Management Techniques for Teaching Exams

                                                                            I must govern the clock, not be governed by it. – Golda Meir

Time management technique is an essential skill for any aspirant preparing for exams. However, it is a well-known fact that time management techniques are crucial not only during exam preparation but also in our lives. Candidates preparing for teaching exams must be aware of how to manage time effectively during exam preparation, but many of them lack the skill and end up underprepared. In this article, we will deliver a specially curated strategy and tips for those who are preparing for teaching exams such as UGC NET, SSC SLST, etc. A well-structured time management plan not only helps you maximize productivity but also reduces stress during preparation. Below is a detailed structure tailored for these two types of exams:

General Time Management Framework 

Set Clear Goals & Prioritize

• Break Down the Syllabus: Understand the entire syllabus for the exam and divide it into smaller sections (subjects, chapters, topics).
• Identify Important Areas: Focus on topics with more weight in the exam, frequently tested concepts, or areas you struggle with the most.
• Set Short-term and Long-term Goals: Daily and weekly study targets. Completing the entire syllabus with sufficient revision time.
• Avoid Multitasking: Stick to one task at a time, whether it’s reading theory, solving practice papers, or reviewing notes.

Create a Weekly Study Plan

1. Dedicate specific days and times for each subject or topic.
2. Plan for revision time for unexpected delays.
3. Schedule time for breaks to avoid mental tiredness.

Daily Routine & Time Allocation

To prepare in an organized and effective manner, candidates can invest 2-3 hours for preparation in the morning with a fresh and focused mind. They will be able to tackle difficult subjects or concepts (e.g., UGC NET Paper 1 – General Paper, or specific subjects you feel tough). Candidates should dedicate 3-4 hours to medium-difficulty subjects or revision time in the afternoon. At last in the Evening keep 1-2 hours for lighter study (e.g., reviewing notes or solving sample questions).

UGC NET Time Management Technique

Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective time management for the UGC NET exam. This exam consists of two papers—Paper 1 (General Aptitude) and Paper 2 (Subject-Specific). Paper 1 should be given approximately 30-40% of total study time as it includes reasoning, comprehension, and teaching aptitude. Paper 2 requires in-depth subject knowledge and should be allocated around 60-70% of the study time. If candidates follow these specially curated UGC NET strategies during their exam preparation, clearing UGC NET/JRF will be easy for them. 

Know the Exam Format & Weightage

UGC NET consists of two papers:

• • Paper 1: General Aptitude (50 questions)
  • Paper 2: Subject-Specific (100 questions)

Divide Time According to Paper Weightage

Daily study routines should be structured according to the subject so that the morning is dedicated to Paper 1 topics like reasoning and teaching aptitude, the afternoon is reserved for subject-specific deep dives, and the evening is used for revision, previous years’ questions, and mock test practice

Paper 1 (General Paper): Allocate 30-40% of your time to Paper 1, as it involves reasoning, comprehension, and basic knowledge.

Paper 2 (Subject-Specific): Allocate 60-70% of your time for Paper 2, where you dive deep into the subject matter.

Daily Time Allocation for UGC NET

To prepare for UGC NET Paper 1 dedicate 1 hour daily for general awareness, teaching aptitude, research methodology, reasoning, etc. Along with that, candidates have to practice previous years’ question papers and mock tests. However, for paper 2 preparation candidates have to divide study time according to topics’ weightage. Spend more time on high-yield topics. Allocate 3-4 hours of daily subject-specific study. Along with these focus on key concepts, theories, and methodologies candidates should make notes and practice solving MCQs in a time-bound manner to improve speed.

Mock Tests and Revision

• Daily Mock Test: Take at least 1-2 mock tests daily to improve speed and accuracy.
• Monthly Full-Length Test: Every 3-4 weeks, simulate the full exam-like environment to build endurance and adjust your time management strategies.

Last-Minute Preparation

Focus on revision. Go through your notes, summaries, and formula sheets. Reduce the new learning and focus on problem-solving and attempting UGC NET previous years’ papers.

School Teacher Recruitment Exam Time Management Technique

For school teacher recruitment exams, time allocation should be based on section-wise weightage. General Knowledge and Aptitude should take up 20-25% of study time, Teaching Methodology and Pedagogy around 30-35%, and Subject-Specific Knowledge should be the primary focus, covering 40-50% of the preparation time.

Understand the Exam Pattern

Teacher recruitment exams typically consist of:

• General Knowledge & Aptitude
• Teaching Methodology
• Subject-Specific Knowledge

Candidates should structure their time by providing specific weightage to subjects, such as General Knowledge and Aptitude should take up 20-25% of study time, Teaching Methodology and Pedagogy around 30-35%, and Subject-Specific Knowledge should be the primary focus, covering 40-50% of the preparation time.

Learn More ➩ About PRT, TGT, and PGT Positions

Breakdown Study Time Based on Sections

• General Knowledge & Aptitude: Allocate 20-25% of your time to this section.
• Teaching Methodology: Allocate 30-35% of your time.
• Subject-Specific Knowledge: Allocate 40-50% of your time, depending on the subject you are appearing for.

Study Plan for Teacher Recruitment Exam

Make a study plan according to the subjects

Paper 1 (General Knowledge & Aptitude):

• Dedicate 1 hour daily to general knowledge, child development, and teaching methodologies.
• Read newspapers, revise key pedagogy concepts, and practice teaching-related MCQs.

Paper 2 (Subject-Specific):

• Allocate 2-3 hours daily to focus on the subject-specific content. Prioritize concepts and practice subject-wise questions.

Incorporate Revision and Practice

To stay on top of your preparation, set aside one day each week just for revision of everything you’ve learned. This helps reinforce concepts and spot any weak areas early on. Try to take a mock test every two weeks to check your progress and improve time management. As the exam gets closer, bump this up to a weekly test to get more comfortable with the format. In the last couple of weeks, shift your focus to revision and practice papers rather than cramming new topics. Most importantly, don’t forget to take breaks and manage stress—staying calm and confident is just as important as studying hard!

Few More Tips for UGC NET & Teacher Recruitment Exams

1. Stay Consistent: Stick to your study schedule consistently. Even short, focused study sessions are better than sporadic long hours.
2. Stay Healthy: Prioritize sleep, healthy food, and regular exercise. Mental clarity comes with physical well-being.
3. Self-Assessment: Regularly assess your performance with mock tests and quizzes. This helps in adjusting your preparation strategy and time allocation.
4. Time Tracking: Use a timer to track the time spent on each task to avoid overspending on one topic or section.
5. Avoid Burnout: Take regular breaks, use techniques like the Pomodoro method (25 minutes of study, 5 minutes of break), and reward yourself after achieving your study goals.

Leading time management expert Peter Turla once said “A plan is what; a schedule is when. It takes both a plan and a schedule to get things done.”

We have started this article with a quote about effective time management techniques and will end with another to boost the morale of the candidates. We hope that following these techniques can help you start a comprehensive, focused, and balanced preparation for your upcoming exams. This article will help you structure your study schedule and manage your time.