CSIR NET Preparation Tips 2024: Know How to Prepare for CSIR UGC NET

Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test 2024 ( CSIR NET )

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Shikha Goyal

Shikha GoyalAssistant Manager

Updated on Nov 28, 2024 14:29 IST

CSIR NET Preparation 2024: The CSIR NET 2024 December exam dates will be released soon on the official website at csirnet.nta.ac.in. Candidates can check below the preparation strategy for the CSIR NET 2024 exam. Lakhs of candidates appeared for the CSIR NET exam. The NTA CSIR UGC NET exam is one of the most sought-after exams by candidates who want to obtain eligibility for a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Lectureship (LS)/Assistant Professorship in Indian universities and colleges. As the competition among candidates to crack the exam is huge, it is important to have the right CSIR NET Preparation Strategy 2024 to ensure success in the exam.

CSIR UGC NET is a national-level exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). Subjects in which candidates can pursue JRF or become lecturers through the CSIR NET exam 2024 are:

  • Chemical Sciences
  • Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean and Planetary Sciences
  • Life Sciences
  • Mathematical Sciences
  • Physical Sciences

Candidates need to give their best in order to crack the CSIR NET exam and become eligible to secure a job in universities and colleges in India. Shiksha brings to you the best CSIR NET Preparation Tips 2024 that candidates should follow to crack the exam with flying colours. However, before talking about the preparation tips, candidates should have an idea about the CSIR NET Exam Pattern 2024.

Q:   How can I prepare for CSIR UGC NET Exam?

A:

Preparing for the CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test) exam requires a systematic and focused approach. Here are some tips that can help you prepare for the CSIR NET 2024 exam: 1. Know the exam pattern and syllabus: It is important to understand the exam pattern and syllabus to know what to expect in the exam and prioritize your preparation accordingly. 2. Create a study plan: Create a study plan that covers all the topics in the syllabus and allows sufficient time for revision and practice. 3. Refer to standard textbooks: Refer to standard textbooks and study materials that cover all the topics in the syllabus. 4. Solve previous year question papers: Solve previous year question papers to understand the exam pattern and practice answering questions within the allotted time. 5. Practice mock tests: Take mock tests to simulate the exam environment and practice time management. 6. Focus on your weak areas: Identify your weak areas and focus on improving them through additional practice and revision. 7. Stay updated with Current Affairs Stay updated with the latest developments in your field of study and general knowledge. 8. Take breaks and maintain a healthy lifestyle: Take breaks at regular intervals, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to stay focused and motivated. 9. Seek guidance from mentors and teachers: Seek guidance from mentors, teachers, or other experts in your field to clarify your doubts and get advice on exam preparation. Remember, consistent effort and dedication are key to success in any exam.

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Q:   Is CSIR NET exam difficult?

A:
The CSIR NET exam is designed to test the candidate's knowledge and understanding of the subject and may include questions that require critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. The exam pattern and syllabus are also designed to cover a wide range of topics and concepts, which can make the exam challenging. However, with the right amount of preparation, practice, and dedication, it is possible to crack the exam. Candidates can refer to standard textbooks and study materials, solve previous year question papers, and take mock tests to improve their understanding of the concepts and gain confidence in their preparation. It is important to note that the difficulty level of the exam may vary from year to year, and candidates should be prepared to face challenges and adapt their approach accordingly.
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Q:   What type of questions are asked in CSIR NET exam?

A:
The CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test) exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) that assess the candidate's knowledge and understanding of their respective subject. The questions are designed to test the candidate's conceptual clarity, analytical ability, and reasoning skills. The questions are designed to cover various topics within the subject, and the difficulty level increases from Part A to Part C. Part A carries 20 marks, Part B carries 40 marks, and Part C carries 120 marks. The questions in Part C are designed to be more challenging and require the candidate to apply their knowledge and understanding of the subject to solve complex problems. Overall, the exam is designed to test the candidate's knowledge, understanding, analytical ability, and problem-solving skills in their respective subject.
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CSIR NET Preparation 2024: Syllabus & Exam Pattern

The first and foremost step towards effective preparation for the exam is being well-versed with the CSIR NET Syllabus 2024 and exam pattern.

Download CSIR NET Syllabus 2024

Click Here

Though CSIR NET Exam Pattern 2024 differs as per the subject chosen by the candidate, given below are some pattern highlights valid for all candidates:

Particulars

CSIR NET Exam Pattern Highlights

Exam mode

Online

Exam duration

180 minutes (3 hours)

Number of sections/parts

3

Total questions to be attempted

  • Chemical Sciences: 75
  • Earth Sciences: 75
  • Life Sciences: 75
  • Mathematical Sciences: 60
  • Physical Sciences: 55

Type of questions

MCQs; 4 options with only 1 correct option

Total marks

200 for each paper

Negative marking

Yes

Language of paper

English and Hindi

Q:   When should I start preparing for CSIR NET?

A:

It is recommended to start preparing for the CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test) exam as early as possible. The exam is highly competitive and requires a comprehensive understanding of the subject and a strong foundation in the basic concepts.

Starting the preparation early will give you enough time to cover the entire syllabus, practice, and revise. Ideally, you should start preparing for the exam at least 6-12 months in advance, depending on your familiarity with the subject and the amount of time you can devote to studying. This will give you enough time to cover all the topics in the syllabus, practice solving questions, and take mock tests to simulate the exam environment and assess your preparation.

However, if you have missed the opportunity to start early, it is still possible to prepare effectively for the exam in a shorter time frame. With a focused and dedicated approach, you can cover the important topics, solve questions, and take mock tests to improve your chances of success.

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Q:   How many attempts are allowed in CSIR NET exam?

A:

There is no limit on the number of attempts for the CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test) exam. A candidate can appear for the exam as many times as they wish, provided they fulfil the eligibility criteria. However, it's important to note that the validity of the CSIR NET scorecard is only for two years from the date of the result declaration.

Therefore, if a candidate wants to use their CSIR NET score for a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) or lectureship, they must apply for these positions within the validity period of the scorecard. It's also important to note that the CSIR NET exam is conducted twice a year, usually in June and December. Therefore, the candidates have two opportunities each year to appear for the exam and improve their scores.

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Q:   What is the syllabus of CSIR NET?

A:
The CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test) is conducted for determining the eligibility of candidates for the award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and for determining eligibility for Lectureship (LS) in Indian universities and colleges. The syllabus for CSIR NET generally includes the following subjects: Physical Sciences: Mathematical Methods of Physics Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetic Theory, Quantum Mechanics, Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics Electronics and Experimental Methods. Chemical Sciences: Inorganic Chemistry Physical Chemistry Organic Chemistry Interdisciplinary topics such as Medicinal Chemistry Environmental Chemistry and Polymer Science and Technology. Life Sciences: Molecules and their Interaction Relevant to Biology Cellular organisation, Fundamental Processes, Cell Communication and Cell Signaling, Developmental Biology System Physiology Plant, System Physiology Animal, Inheritance Biology Diversity of Life Forms, Ecological Principles, Evolution and Behavior, Applied Biology and Methods in Biology. Mathematical Sciences: Analysis, Linear Algebra Complex Analysis, Algebra Topology, Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs), Partial Differential Equations (PDEs), Numerical Analysis, Calculus of Variations, Linear Integral Equations, Classical Mechanics, Descriptive Statistics Probability and Graph Theory. Earth Sciences: Physical Geology, Structural Geology, Mineralogy, Petrology, Stratigraphy, Palaeontology, Marine Geology, Geomorphology, and Remote Sensing.
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How to Prepare for CSIR NET 2024?

Check out some important points given below for effective CSIR NET Preparation 2024:

CSIR NET Best Books 2024

With a number of CSIR NET preparation books available in the market, it often gets difficult to choose the right ones. Check out some of the points to be considered while choosing the best books for CSIR NET preparation:

  • Opt for CSIR UGC NET books 2024 by renowned authors or reputed publishing houses only
  • Always check the year of publication and edition of the book
  • Choose books with lots of previous years’ CSIR NET question papers and sample papers

Have a look at the Paper-wise CSIR NET Books below:

Chemical Sciences

Joint CSIR-UGC NET Chemical Science (Paper-II & III) by Narender Sharma

CSIR-UGC NET/JRF/SET Chemical Sciences by Dr Hemant Kulshrestha and Dr Ajay Taneja

Trueman's UGC-CSIR JRF / NET Chemical Sciences (Chemistry) by M Gagan

Modern Methods of Organic Synthesis by William Carruthers

Physical Sciences

CSIR-UGC NET/JRF/SET Physical Sciences by Dr Surekha Tomar

Mathematical Physics by HK Dass and Rama Verma

Classical Mechanics by JC Upadhya

Modern Physics and Solid State Physics by SO Pillai

Mathematical Sciences

CSIR-UGC NET/JRF/SET Mathematical Sciences by Alok Kumar (Upkar)

Real Analysis by HL Royden

Complex Variables and Applications by Ruel Churchill and James Brown

Contemporary Abstract Algebra by Joseph A Gallian

Life Sciences

Biochemistry by Lubert Stryer and Jeremy M Berg

Molecular Biotechnology: Principles and Applications of Recombinant by Bernard J Glick, Jack J Pasternak and Cheryl L Patten

Plant Physiology by Ross and Salisbury

Kuby Immunology by Thomas J Kindt 

Earth Sciences

CSIR-UGC NET/JRF Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean and Planetary Sciences Exam Guide by Surendra Kumar

An Objective Earth Sciences by S Ahmad

Earth Science: The Physical Setting by Jeffrey C Callister 

Climatology and Oceanography by DS Lal

CSIR NET Question Papers & Mock Tests

One of the most important aspects of CSIR UGC NET preparation is practising previous years’ question papers and sample papers and attempting mock tests. Practising CSIR NET question papers not only helps in improving the time management skills of candidates but also helps them analyse their weak areas for the exam.  

On the other hand, since CSIR UGC NET is conducted by NTA in online mode, attempting mock tests gives the real look and feel of the paper to candidates. This helps them increase their confidence for the exam and avoid making mistakes during the paper.  

Also Read: How to crack CSIR NET Life Sciences paper?

CSIR NET Exam Analysis

Previous years' CSIR NET exam analysis is one of the best ways to prepare for the exam. By going through the exam analysis and review, candidates get to know the difficulty level of the CSIR NET question paper. Have a look at the previous year's exam analysis below: 

CSIR NET Topper Tips

Go through topper interviews for the CSIR NET preparation.  

CSIR UGC NET Toppers

Preparation Strategy and How They Cracked It

Bhanu Pratap Singh

Subject: Physical Science

  • Followed a proper routine
  • Focused on clearing basics for each topic
  • Attempted a series of practice/ mock tests

Bilal Ahmed

Subject: Life Science

  • Kept pace with both Paper 1 and Paper 2
  • Prepared from multiple books containing facts  
  • Revised each topic multiple times

Q:   Can I crack the CSIR NET exam in first attempt?

A:
Yes, it is possible to crack the CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test) exam in the first attempt with proper preparation and dedication. Many candidates have successfully cleared the exam in their first attempt. To increase your chances of success in the first attempt, you should start preparing early, create a comprehensive study plan, and focus on the important topics and concepts. Solve previous year question papers, take mock tests, and revise regularly to reinforce your understanding of the topics. It is also important to maintain a positive attitude, stay motivated, and avoid undue stress during the preparation period. Seek guidance from mentors, teachers, or other experts in your field to clarify your doubts and get advice on exam preparation.
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Q:   How do I prepare CSIR NET Exam in 3 months?

A:
Preparing for the CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test) exam in just 2-3 months can be challenging, but it is possible with a focused and dedicated approach. However, it is important to note that the amount of time required to prepare may vary depending on your familiarity with the subject, your level of preparation, and the amount of time you can devote to studying. Here are some tips that can help you prepare effectively for the CSIR NET exam within a shorter time frame: 1. Focus on the important topics: Identify the important topics and chapters from the syllabus and prioritize them in your study plan. 2. Refer to standard textbooks and study materials: Use reliable and relevant study materials, including standard textbooks, to cover the important topics and concepts. 3. Solve previous year question papers: Solve previous year question papers to understand the exam pattern and practice answering questions within the allotted time. 4. Take mock tests: Take mock tests to simulate the exam environment and practice time management. 5. Practice regularly: Practice regularly and revise frequently to reinforce your understanding of the topics. 6. Seek guidance from mentors and teachers: Seek guidance from mentors, teachers, or other experts in your field to clarify your doubts and get advice on exam preparation. Remember, a focused and dedicated approach is key to success in any exam, regardless of the time frame.
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Q:   How long does it take to prepare for the CSIR NET exam?

A:
The time required to prepare for the CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test) exam can vary widely depending on various factors such as your familiarity with the subject, your level of preparation, and the amount of time you can devote to studying. On average, it may take around 6-12 months of dedicated preparation to cover the entire syllabus and practice enough to be well-prepared for the exam. However, this time frame can vary depending on the individuals level of preparation and the amount of time they can devote to studying. It is important to note that a consistent and focused approach to exam preparation is more important than the amount of time spent preparing. A well-planned study schedule, regular practice, and revision can help you prepare effectively within a reasonable time frame.
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CSIR NET Preparation Tips 2024

Some beneficial preparation tips for CSIR NET 2024 exam are as follows:

  • Candidates are advised to go through the syllabus and exam pattern before commencing their preparation for the Exam
  • Candidates should try to solve a mock test for CSIR NET before starting preparation to check their level of preparation
  • Candidates should prepare a routing involving more focus on the Candidate’s weak topics and less on the strong topics
  • It is advisable to start with the basics and then move on to the advanced topics
  • Note-taking is also suggested for such topics which need constant revision
  • Revise each topic before starting a new one. It would enhance the retention capacity
  • Check out the previous year's papers for CSIR NET and the questions that have been asked
  • Look for the study material that suits you the most from a list of Books. No need to read all the books for the preparation

Read More:

CSIR NET Application Form 2024

Q:   How can I self study for the CSIR NET exam?

A:
Self-studying for the CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test) exam requires a disciplined and focused approach. Here are some tips that can help you effectively self-study for the CSIR NET exam: 1. Know the exam pattern and syllabus: Understand the exam pattern and syllabus to help you prioritize your preparation and stay focused. 2. Create a study plan: Create a study plan that covers all the topics in the syllabus and allows sufficient time for revision and practice. 3. Refer to standard textbooks: Refer to standard textbooks and study materials that cover all the topics in the syllabus. 4. Make notes: Summarize the important concepts and formulas in your own words and make notes that you can refer to later. 5. Solve previous year question papers: Solve previous year question papers to understand the exam pattern and practice answering questions within the allotted time. 6. Take mock tests: Take mock tests to simulate the exam environment and practice time management. 7. Use online resources: Use online resources, such as websites, blogs, and video tutorials, to supplement your study materials. 8. Join online study groups: Join online study groups and forums to discuss concepts and clarify your doubts with other candidates. 9. Stay motivated: Stay motivated and focused by setting achievable goals and rewarding yourself for progress. Remember, consistency, and dedication are key to success in any exam. By following these tips and maintaining a disciplined and focused approach, you can effectively self-study for the CSIR NET exam and increase your chances of success.
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Q:   How many hours of study is required for the CSIR NET exam?

A:
On average, candidates are advised to dedicate at least 4-6 hours of focused study per day to cover all the topics in the syllabus and practice enough to be well-prepared for the exam. However, this time frame can vary depending on individual factors. It is important to note that the quality of study is more important than the quantity of hours spent studying. A well-planned study schedule, regular practice, and revision can help you prepare effectively within a reasonable time frame. Candidates are advised to create a study plan that covers all the topics in the syllabus and allows sufficient time for revision and practice. They should also take regular breaks, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to stay focused and motivated during the preparation period.
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CSIR NET Exam

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Answered a week ago

The CSIR NET 2024 December cut off will be released by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in an online mode on the official website. It will be released subject-wise separately for the CSIR UGC NET 2024 December exam. The cut-off for CSIR NET is the minimum marks required by th

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Shikha Goyal

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 weeks ago

Based on your score of 28 percentile in CSIR NET Mathematical Sciences, you are unfortunately not qualified for the Assistant Professor or Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) roles in the current CSIR NET cutoffs. 

 

To be eligible for the Assistant Professor role through CSIR NET, candidates must meet a

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Tejas Bodhankar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

You can find the subject-wise and category-wise cutoffs on the official NTA website as CSIR NET 2024 cutoff marks have been already been released by the National Testing Agency.

You can visit the official NTA website or search online for "CSIR NET 2024 cutoff."

A

Anushka Mendiratta

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

The NTA will release the CSIR NET 2024 application form for the December session soon in an online mode on the official website at csirnet.nta.ac.in. Candidates are advised to check the eligibility criteria before applying for the application form. Those candidates who have successfully filled out t

...more

S

Shikha Goyal

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

 The CSIR NET City Intimation Slip 2024 for the December session will be released in PDF format and candidates are advised to take a print-out of the CSIR NET City Intimation Slip for future purposes. CSIR NET Exam City Intimation Slip helps candidates to know about their CSIR NET Exam Cities in adv

...more

S

Shikha Goyal

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

CSIR NET City Intimation Slip 2024 for the December session will be released on the official website csirnet.nta.ac.in to facilitate the candidates where the exam city and centre are located for the exam. To download the exam city slip candidates are required their application number and date of bir

...more

S

Shikha Goyal

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

The CSIR NET is a prestigious examination conducted by the National Testing Agency twice a year. The CSIR NET 2024 notification for the December session will be released tentatively in November 2024 on the official website.

S

Shikha Goyal

Contributor-Level 10

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