How to Prepare for CUET English | General Test Preparation for CUET - CUET Commerce PDF Download

The purpose of EduRev in creating this document is to provide comprehensive guidance on how to study the English subject for the CUET (Common University Entrance Test). Administered nationally by the NTA, CUET is gaining momentum with many central institutions and private universities on board, with more universities expected to join soon. 

Step-by-Step Preparation Strategy for CUET English

Given below are the major tips from experts and toppers which can be checked by candidates who are preparing for CUET. These are the major strategies that, if followed will give fruitful results in CUET:

Step 1: Decode the Exam Pattern & Syllabus

The students should check out the English syllabus before they dive into practice and revision. The CUET syllabus for the English domain covers topics that are very important and on which the CUET exam will be based. The CUET English exam syllabus is given as follows:

• Reading Comprehension - Factual, Narrative and Literary
• Verbal Ability
• Rearranging the parts
• Choosing the correct word
• Synonyms and Antonyms
• Vocabulary

Step 2: Take a Diagnostic Test to understand where you stand

• For the CUET English Test, it is highly advisable to attempt Previous Year Papers (PYQs) and mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, question types, composition, topics, and format. 
• Assess your strong and weak areas after taking a mock test. Tailor your preparation according to these insights, focusing more on weaker areas while leveraging your strengths. 
• Prioritize understanding your strengths and weaknesses, which will gradually improve with practice and focused preparation for each section independently.

Step 3: Topic-By-Topic Preparation

Once, you've understood your strengths & weaknesses and are done with Steps 1 & 2, it's time to start focusing on topic-wise preparation.

Step 3.1: Reading Comprehension

If you don’t practice enough for comprehension questions, they can become the most time-consuming questions to solve. Reading comprehension questions are also the maximum weightage questions. To help you solve reading comprehension passages, we have provided some tips:

• Understand the main idea of the passage
• Don’t try to remember the text, read it twice for factual or specific-point questions
• Give the passage a quick read and then try to attempt the questions
• Do the easy questions first and the tough ones in the last
• Read the questions properly and carefully

Step 3.2: Grammar 

• To master grammar effectively, one must adopt a systematic approach. Start by understanding the basic components: parts of speech, sentence structure, and punctuation rules. 
• Next, delve into more complex concepts such as verb tense consistency, subject-verb agreement, and parallelism. 
• Practice regularly through exercises and writing tasks to reinforce learning. Click on this link and brush up your grammar concepts.
• Gradually, with dedication and persistence, one can attain proficiency in grammar, enhancing communication skills and overall language competency.

Step 3.3: Vocabulary 

• Mastering vocabulary encompasses both basic word acquisition and understanding synonyms and antonyms. 
• Regular practice in these areas enhances language skills, aiding in effective communication and comprehension. It broadens one's lexical range, allowing for more precise expression and nuanced writing. 
• Understanding synonyms enriches language usage by offering alternatives that convey similar meanings, while antonyms provide contrast and depth to communication. 
• Through consistent practice, learners develop a diverse vocabulary repertoire, empowering them to articulate ideas with clarity and sophistication. 
• Thus, investing time and effort in vocabulary development is paramount for anyone aiming to excel in communication and language proficiency.

Step 4: Take Mock Tests

• Simulating Real Exam Conditions: Mock tests replicate the format, structure, and timing of the CUET exam, giving you a feel for what to expect on the actual test day. This simulation helps reduce anxiety and nervousness by familiarizing you with the exam environment in advance.
• Gauging Preparation Level: By taking CUET mock tests, you can gauge your current level of preparation accurately. The questions in these mock tests are designed to reflect the difficulty level and variety of topics covered in the actual CUET exam. Analyzing your performance in these tests gives you valuable insights into your strengths and weaknesses.
• Analyzing Performance: After completing each mock test, it's crucial to thoroughly analyze your performance. Identify areas where you excelled and areas where you struggled. Reviewing your answers helps pinpoint specific topics or question types that require further practice or improvement.
• Edurev Mock Tests: EduRev provides mock tests based on the same pattern and timing as the actual exam. You can access them by clicking on this link.

Step 5: Enhanced Speed, Accuracy and Calmness

• Enhance Speed and Accuracy
  • Improving speed and accuracy is vital for success in exams. Practice solving questions within time constraints to develop efficient time management skills. Focus on maintaining a balance between speed and accuracy to maximize your performance.
• Stay Calm and Confident
  • On exam day, remain calm and confident to tackle challenges effectively. If faced with a difficult question, stay composed and skip it temporarily to avoid wasting time. Ensure to carefully read instructions and attempt all questions within the allotted time.

Step 6:  CUET General Test Day Plan/Strategy

• Step 6.1: Before Exam
  • Ensure Adequate Rest: Prioritize getting a good night's sleep before the CUET English exam to stay alert during the exam. Aim for at least eight hours of sleep to maintain a calm and focused mindset, especially for sections requiring heavy calculation and logical reasoning.
  • Arrive Early: Reach the exam center before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card to ensure smooth entry to the exam hall. Don't forget to bring your CUET admit card and a valid ID proof for verification.
• Step 6.2: During Exam
  • Stick to Your Strategy: Stay consistent with the exam pattern and strategy you've practiced throughout your CUET preparation
  • Maintain Speed and Accuracy: Have confidence in your preparation and stay motivated during the exam. Stick to your strategy, focusing on maintaining a balance between speed and accuracy. Avoid the temptation to over-attempt or guess answers randomly to minimize errors.