The Introduction

What separates a NEET score of 600 from a score of 700+? What does the daily life of an AIR 113 holder actually look like—not the myth, but the reality? And what is the one decision that every future NEET topper makes early—often before Class 11 even begins?

I am Devansh Mittal, a Physics educator and mentor. I teach Physics for IIT-JEE Advanced, NEET, Olympiads, and students aspiring for top global universities. Over the years, I have worked closely with hundreds of students on their journey to elite ranks. But some conversations stay with you long after the call ends—and this was one of them.

In this in-depth interview, I sat down with Rajdeep Gupta, who secured All India Rank 113 in NEET UG 2026—a phenomenal result in an exam where over 20 lakh students compete for a handful of seats at India’s top medical colleges. Rajdeep is not just a topper; he is a strategist. Every decision he made—from his daily timetable and resource selection, to his OMR bubbling protocol and error-analysis system—was deliberate, data-driven, and ruthlessly optimized.

In this article, you will find Rajdeep’s complete, unfiltered blueprint: his exact daily schedule, how he read NCERT 25–30 times in Biology, the three-category Error Notebook that pushed him past 700, his approach to conquering Physics without fear, why he completely quit social media for two years, how his family’s sacrifices became the backbone of his success, and the precise exam-day strategy he executed on D-Day.

Whether you are a parent planning your child’s NEET journey, a student stuck at 500 in mock tests dreaming of AIIMS Delhi, or a Class 11 aspirant just starting out—this article was written for you.

The Conversation:

PHASE 1: THE GENESIS & THE “WHY”

Q1.  The Result Moment: Walk us through the exact moment you (and your parents) saw that you secured a top All India Rank in NEET. What was that feeling like?

Rajdeep:  When the result was declared and I saw All India Rank 113 on the screen, I was completely overwhelmed with joy and happiness. At that exact moment, my mother was sitting right next to me. As soon as she saw the rank, she was bursting with pride and joy. My younger brother was also right there, and he started celebrating immediately! After that, I called my father to break the news to him, and he was immensely proud and happy. Seeing the happy faces of my parents and family made me realize that all the intense, unyielding hard work I put in over the last two full years had finally borne fruit. It felt incredibly gratifying.

Q2.  The Catalyst: When did you officially start your NEET preparation? How did you figure out your true academic interest? At what point did you decide to pursue medical over engineering or commerce?

Rajdeep:  My core interest in biological sciences started early back when I was in Class 9. I found Biology fascinating, especially reading about human anatomy, physiology, and how the human body functions. However, my official and structured preparation for NEET UG began when I entered Class 11 and enrolled at Allen Career Institute in Kota. From that point onward, I dedicated the next two full years entirely to systematic NEET preparation.

PHASE 2: ACADEMIC ARCHITECTURE & BLUEPRINT

Q3.  The Daily Routine: What did your daily routine look like? Did you follow a rigid timetable (by the hour) or a flexible, target-based approach?

Rajdeep:  Throughout my preparation in Kota, I maintained a very structured and consistent daily timetable. I used to wake up early at 7:00 AM, freshen up, and finish breakfast by 7:30 AM. My morning self-study session started at 8:00 AM sharp and went on until 12:30 PM. During this 4.5-hour block, I took one or two short 10-minute breaks to stay refreshed. At 12:30 PM, I had lunch and got ready for coaching. My classes at Allen Kota ran from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM every day. After returning home at 8:00 PM, I had dinner, relaxed briefly, and sat down for my night self-study session from 9:00 PM to 11:30 PM. Finally, I went to sleep at 11:30 PM to ensure I got a full 7.5 hours of rest before waking up at 7:00 AM the next morning.

Q4.  Sleep & Cycles: How many hours of sleep did you prioritize? Did you prefer studying late at night or early in the morning?

Rajdeep:  That myth is completely false. Sleep is absolutely vital for brain health, memory consolidation, and mental clarity. I made sure to sleep 7 to 8 hours every single night throughout my preparation. Without proper sleep, your retention capacity drops drastically.

Q5.  Subject Allocation: How did you balance Physics, Chemistry, and Biology? Did you allocate equal time to all, or base it entirely on your weak points?

Rajdeep:  I did not split time equally; instead, I allocated time based on the specific demands of each subject. I assigned the maximum time to Physics—around 2.5 hours daily—because Physics requires extensive numerical problem-solving and deep conceptual application. For Chemistry, I spent about 2 hours daily, balancing Physical, Organic, and Inorganic branches. For Biology, I allocated about 1 to 1.5 hours daily because once you have thoroughly understood a Biology chapter, revising it takes significantly less time compared to solving Physics problems.

My philosophy was that in Physics, the more numerical problems you solve, the stronger and clearer your concepts become. Solving a wide variety of questions exposes you to different problem patterns, which builds speed, accuracy, and confidence for the final exam.

Q6.  The Material Trap: Did you rely strictly on your coaching modules, or did you use multiple reference books? Is it better to solve one book three times or three books once?

Rajdeep:  When I started Class 11, like many students, I began solving external reference books alongside my coaching modules. However, by the end of Class 11 and throughout Class 12, I realized that managing too many reference books was creating unnecessary stress and confusion. So I completely stopped solving external reference books and focused 100% of my energy on Allen’s coaching modules and NCERT textbooks. In my opinion, it is vastly superior to solve one quality module 3 to 4 times than to solve 5 different reference books superficially.

Q7.  Curating the Resource Stack: With hundreds of reference books available, what exact resource stack did you use for Biology, Chemistry, and Physics?

Rajdeep:  NCERT is absolute gold—it is the single most critical resource for NEET. In Biology, Organic Chemistry, and Inorganic Chemistry, almost 95% to 100% of the questions are picked directly from NCERT lines, diagrams, and tables. For Physics and Physical Chemistry, while NCERT provides foundational concepts, coaching modules supply the extra numerical problem-solving needed for competitive speed. Additionally, Allen provided a concise revision book called ‘First Step / Fast-Track Biology’, which summarized chapters into quick tables and flowcharts. Reading that book allowed me to revise entire units in less than 30 minutes.

Q8.  The 2:00 PM – 5:20 PM Bio-Clock Protocol: Since NEET-UG takes place during the afternoon slot, how did you train your brain to reach peak alertness during these exact 3 hours and 20 minutes? Did you actively avoid afternoon sleep?

Rajdeep:  I took three deliberate steps to condition myself. First, I always ate a light, simple lunch so that my body wouldn’t feel heavy or sleepy. Second, I strictly trained myself never to take afternoon naps on study days, breaking any habit of daytime sleepiness. Third, every Sunday our Allen mock tests were held precisely from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Giving weekly tests in that exact slot trained my brain to automatically switch into high-alert exam mode every afternoon.

Q9.  NCERT Revision Count: Top rankers often say they read NCERT Biology 30 to 50 times. How many times did you read NCERT for Biology and Inorganic Chemistry line-by-line?

Rajdeep:  In Biology, I read the NCERT textbook line-by-line at least 25 to 30 times over two years, repeatedly revisiting weak chapters until every line was etched in my memory. For Inorganic Chemistry, I revised NCERT line-by-line about 10 to 15 times. For Organic Chemistry, I focused heavily on named reactions and NCERT tables. In Physics, I read the summary boxes, ‘Points to Ponder’, and key formulas from NCERT, while relying on module numericals for problem practice.

Q10.  Decoding Hidden NCERT Content: How did you study the ‘neglected’ parts of NCERT—such as scientist profiles, summary boxes, diagram captions, footnotes, and tables? Did you annotate your physical NCERT textbooks or build separate summary notebooks?

Rajdeep:  I gave tremendous importance to those hidden sections—scientist bios, diagram captions, footnotes, percentage data, and floral formulas are prime targets for NTA question setters! Instead of making separate bulky notebooks for NCERT, I highlighted key lines and wrote extra notes, mnemonics, and teacher insights directly on the margins of my NCERT textbook. That made revision incredibly fast.

Q11.  Managing Class 11th Backlogs: Almost every student accumulates backlogs in Class 11th (especially in Physics Mechanics or Plant Physiology). How did you systematically resolve your backlogs without delaying Class 12th topics?

Rajdeep:  My first rule was to study Class 11 so diligently in Class 11 itself that backlogs were kept to an absolute minimum. When Class 12 started, my top priority every day was completing Class 12 lectures and homework first so no new backlog accumulated. To revise Class 11, I utilized free self-study hours on weekdays and dedicated full Sundays specifically for Class 11 chapter revisions and tests.

Q12.  CBSE/State Board vs. NEET Prep: How did you balance board practicals, school attendance, and subjective answer writing with objective speed-solving for NEET?

Rajdeep:  Our coaching institute at Allen organized special morning practical classes once or twice a week, which covered all board practical experiments thoroughly. For subjective answer writing, coaching conducted board-pattern subjective mock tests 1 to 2 months prior to the board exams. Because my theoretical concepts were already crystal clear for NEET, writing subjective step-by-step answers for boards required very little extra effort.

Q13.  Active Recall & Memorization: How did you memorize thousands of anatomical terms, taxonomic classifications, floral formulas, and biochemical cycles (Krebs, Calvin, C4)? Did you use flashcards, Anki, or active recall sheets?

Rajdeep:  First, I built strong conceptual understanding from day one so that theoretical topics didn’t require constant rote learning. For memory-heavy topics like Morphology, Anatomy, and Animal Kingdom, I scheduled weekly active recall sessions. Additionally, Allen provided a concise revision book called ‘First Step / Fast-Track Biology’, which summarized chapters into quick tables and flowcharts. Reading that book allowed me to revise entire units in less than 30 minutes.

Q14.  Tackling New Question Formats: Recent NEET papers feature complex Statement I/II, Matching columns, and Assertion-Reasoning questions. How did you train to read these carefully without sacrificing speed?

Rajdeep:  In the beginning, I used to make silly mistakes in statement questions by missing words like ‘INCORRECT’ or ‘NOT TRUE’. To solve this, I developed a habit of reading every question word-for-word and physically circling key words like ‘CORRECT’ or ‘INCORRECT’ with my pen before looking at the options. Practicing hundreds of statement-based questions in mock tests gradually built high speed and 100% accuracy.

Q15.  Botany vs. Zoology Balance: Did you find Botany or Zoology more challenging? How did you master memory-intensive chapters like Plant Kingdom, Morphology, and Genetics?

Rajdeep:  I found Botany more challenging than Zoology. In Zoology, since most topics relate to human body systems, it is natural and easy to visualize. Botany involves abstract plant mechanisms and heavy memory work. For Genetics and Plant Physiology, I drew custom flowcharts, solved pedigree charts repeatedly, and revised NCERT diagrams until I had absolute clarity.

Q16.  Bridging the Mathematical Gap: Many medical aspirants enter Class 11th with hesitation in basic mathematics (Calculus, Trigonometry, Vectors). How did you build rock-solid mathematical fundamentals for Physics?

Rajdeep:  I never feared Physics because right at the start of Class 11, I focused heavily on mastering Basic Mathematics—vectors, calculus (differentiation & integration), and trigonometry. Once your mathematical tools are strong, Physics becomes logical and enjoyable. I maintained a dedicated Formula Notebook for quick formula recall and solved at least 100 to 150 numerical problems per chapter.

Q17.  Physics Speed & Accuracy: Physics in NEET requires solving 45 questions rapidly with zero numerical errors. Did you maintain a ‘Formula & Key Concepts Sheet’? How did you quickly identify which questions required calculations and which could be solved conceptually?

Rajdeep:  I never feared Physics because right at the start of Class 11, I focused heavily on mastering Basic Mathematics—vectors, calculus (differentiation & integration), and trigonometry. Once your mathematical tools are strong, Physics becomes logical and enjoyable. I maintained a dedicated Formula Notebook for quick formula recall and solved at least 100 to 150 numerical problems per chapter. For chapters that had too many formulas, I would write all the formulas on one or two pages so that I could revise them in a short time before any test.

Q18.  High-Yield Physics Chapters: Which chapters in Physics (e.g., Mechanics, Electrodynamics, Modern Physics, Optics) required the highest problem-solving volume?

Rajdeep:  In Class 11, Mechanics was the most important chapter, and in Class 12, Electrodynamics and Optics. I feel that the more questions we practice in these chapters, especially with a wide variety of problem types, the stronger our core becomes. These chapters are very important, and their weightage in the exam is also high. So we should practice as many questions as possible from these chapters.

Q19.  The 620–650 Ceiling: Many hardworking students get stuck in the 620–650 score range in mock tests. What specific analytical shift helped you bridge the gap from 650 to 700+?

Rajdeep:  Post-test analysis is where actual rank improvements happen. After every mock test, I spent 2 hours analyzing every incorrect and unattempted question. I maintained a dedicated ‘Error Notebook’ where I categorized my mistakes into three types: (1) Silly errors (calculation slips or misreading options), (2) Conceptual gaps (topics I forgot or misunderstood), and (3) Time-pressure misses. Before writing the next mock test, I thoroughly reviewed my Error Notebook to ensure I never repeated the same mistake twice.

PHASE 3: PSYCHOLOGY, ADVERSITIES, & THE MINDSET

Q20.  Tackling Failure: What were your best and worst scores in mock tests? How did you mentally recover from a disastrous test score?

Rajdeep:  Yes, everyone experiences score fluctuations. Whenever my score dipped in a mock test, I trained myself to view it as a positive diagnostic tool rather than a failure—a score drop highlights a weak area now so you can fix it before the final NEET exam! I discussed my mistakes openly with mentors like Devansh Sir and my parents, took short 15-minute breaks, and bounced back with renewed focus.

Q21.  The “Silly Mistakes” Protocol: Almost every student loses ranks to silly mistakes. Did you maintain a “mistake notebook,” and how did you actively minimize these errors?

Rajdeep:  I also used to make many silly mistakes in the beginning. Then I made a dedicated notebook in which I noted down all my mistakes—classifying them as either silly mistakes or conceptual errors. I worked on each one specifically so that the same silly mistakes would not be repeated in the next test. Before every subsequent mock test, I used to revise all the silly mistakes from my notebook, and this practice helped me avoid repeating such errors over time.

Q22.  Conquering Fear: Was there a specific topic (like Thermodynamics or Fluids) that terrified you? How did you overcome it?

Rajdeep:  In Physics, there were chapters that had many formulas, so I was afraid of them in the beginning—I would worry about how I would remember all the formulas during the exam. For that, I made a separate formula sheet and revised it before every exam so that all the formulas were fresh and there would be no mistake. In Inorganic Chemistry, whatever I used to revise, I would often forget. So I scheduled weekly revision sessions so that whenever I forgot, I could revise it again and it would stay in my mind during the exam.

Q23.  Digital Distractions: How did you handle smartphones and social media? Did you cut them off completely, or use them in moderation?

Rajdeep:  I used a basic smartphone strictly as a learning tool—for checking coaching schedules, lecture updates, and clearing doubts on messaging groups. I completely abstained from social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or watching random video shorts. Eliminating digital distractions saved hours of time and kept my mind calm.

Q24.  The “Burnout” Days: What did you do on days when you were completely exhausted and absolutely did not want to study?

Rajdeep:  On days when I did not feel like studying, I would still not waste time. Instead, I used to analyze my mistakes from previous tests, and organize and arrange my books and test papers sequence-wise. So even on exhausting days, I was still doing something productive related to my preparation.

Q25.  Sports: Did you only study during those preparation years or you also spent time in sports, workouts and other recreational activities?

Rajdeep:  I used to go to the gym for about half an hour every day. It kept me physically and mentally fit and helped me feel refreshed from the continuous studying. I would definitely suggest future students to also engage in sports, workouts, and recreational activities alongside their studies.

PHASE 4: THE ECOSYSTEM (FAMILY, MENTORS, & PEERS)

Q26.  The Parental Support Engine: How did your parents support your routine, diet, and emotional well-being throughout the 2-year marathon?

Rajdeep:  My parents helped me from the start to the end. Whenever I felt demotivated, they supported me and never let me feel alone. My mother was always there whenever I needed help. She used to cook healthy food for me so that I wouldn’t have to eat outside and could stay healthy and fit. My mother even relocated and spent the entire preparation period with me so I would always have family support. It was a big sacrifice from my parents to live with me and support me throughout the journey.

Q27.  The Peer Group: How important is a highly competitive friend circle in cracking NEET? Did you do group studies or doubt-solving with friends?

Rajdeep:  I did not actively make a close friend circle during my preparation. For doubt-solving, I mostly went to the teachers directly. Towards the end, after the tests, I would sometimes discuss questions with batchmates and learn from them, but not in the beginning. However, I do believe peer discussions are important because we get to know different ways to solve questions. If our concepts are wrong, peers can point it out—and there is a healthy competition that accelerates learning.

Q28.  The Mentors: Were you ever hesitant to ask doubts in a class full of brilliant students? How did your bond with your teachers help you beyond academics?

Rajdeep:  I did not usually ask questions during class. Instead, I used to go to the teachers at the counter after class and ask my doubts there. The teachers always explained things in a very clear and detailed way. Whenever I had a concept that I couldn’t understand, the teachers would sit and explain it thoroughly. They were always available to clear my doubts.

PHASE 5: THE D-DAY & THE AFTERMATH

Q29.  The Exam Strategy: Did you have a pre-decided sequence for attempting the paper (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, then Physics), or did you adapt based on the paper’s difficulty?

Rajdeep:  My subject order was fixed and tested across dozens of mock tests: I attempted Biology first (completing Botany & Zoology in ~40 to 45 minutes), followed by Chemistry (~40 to 45 minutes), and finally Physics (~60 to 70 minutes). Leaving 70 minutes for Physics gave me ample time to solve complex numericals calmly without rushing.

Q30.  Bubbling Strategy: Did you bubble the OMR sheet question-by-question, subject-by-subject, or all together at the end of the test?

Rajdeep:  I filled OMR bubbles section-wise. As soon as I completed all 90 questions in Biology, I immediately bubbled the Biology section on the OMR sheet. Next, after finishing Chemistry, I bubbled the Chemistry section, and finally Physics. Section-wise bubbling prevented last-minute rush and eliminated any risk of misaligned bubble marking.

Q31.  Round-Based Paper Attempt Strategy: How did you decide which questions to attempt in the first round versus the second round?

Rajdeep:  In Round 1, I went through the paper sequentially and solved all direct, easy, and conceptual questions that took less than a minute. If a question appeared overly calculative or complex, I marked it and skipped it immediately. In Round 2, with majority marks secured, I tackled the lengthy and complex numericals with total confidence.

Q32.  Exam Temperament: Were you nervous on the actual day of the exam, or did giving continuous mock tests eliminate the “exam fear”?

Rajdeep:  I was surprisingly not nervous at all! Because I had given dozens of full-syllabus mock tests in the exact 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM window, stepping into the NEET exam hall felt like just another routine Sunday mock test. The rigorous test practice completely eliminated exam fear.

PHASE 6: UNPLUGGED & RAPID FIRE (HUMANIZING THE SCHOLAR)

Q33.  The Single Golden Rule: If you could share only one piece of advice with millions of NEET aspirants starting their preparation today, what would it be?

Rajdeep:  My golden advice is to maintain unyielding daily consistency. Work hard every single day—regardless of whether it is a holiday, a Sunday, or a festival. If you stay disciplined from day one until exam day, no target is impossible to achieve.

Q34.  Message to Aspirants in Low-Score Phases: What message would you give to a student currently scoring 450–500 in mock tests who dreams of reaching AIIMS New Delhi?Rajdeep:  To students scoring 450-500: Do not lose heart! Every top ranker was once at 500. First, focus on plugging your conceptual gaps in weak chapters. Second, maintain a strict Error Notebook and analyze every mock test diligently. As you fix your weak concepts and stop repeating silly mistakes, your score will systematically rise from 500 to 600, and ultimately break 700+ for AIIMS Delhi!

Devansh Sir’s 10 Key Takeaways from The Conversation with Rajdeep Gupta

1.  Master One Resource Deeply—Don’t Collect Books, Conquer Them.

Rajdeep stopped using external reference books by the end of Class 11 and focused 100% on Allen’s coaching modules and NCERT. His verdict: solving one quality module 3–4 times is vastly superior to solving 5 different books superficially. For future aspirants, the lesson is clear—depth of mastery over one resource beats shallow coverage of many.

2.  NCERT Is Non-Negotiable—Read It 25–30 Times for Biology, 10–15 Times for Inorganic Chemistry.

Rajdeep read NCERT Biology line-by-line at least 25–30 times and Inorganic Chemistry 10–15 times. He also studied the ‘hidden’ sections that most students skip—scientist profiles, diagram captions, footnotes, percentage data, and floral formulas—because these are prime targets for NTA question setters. He highlighted and annotated directly on the NCERT margins instead of making separate notebooks, making revision incredibly fast.

3.  Allocate Time by Subject Demand, Not by Equal Division.

Rajdeep gave Physics 2.5 hours daily (the most), Chemistry 2 hours, and Biology 1–1.5 hours. His logic: Physics needs heavy numerical practice to build conceptual strength, while Biology—once understood thoroughly—can be revised in far less time. Future aspirants should invest more time where the return on practice is highest, not distribute hours equally.

4.  Build the Three-Category Error Notebook—This Is What Breaks the 700 Barrier.

After every mock test, Rajdeep spent 2 hours analyzing every incorrect and unattempted question. He classified each mistake into one of three categories: (1) Silly errors—calculation slips or misreading options, (2) Conceptual gaps—topics forgotten or misunderstood, and (3) Time-pressure misses. Before every subsequent test, he reviewed this notebook religiously. This single habit is what separates students stuck at 620–650 from those who cross 700+.

5.  Sleep 7–8 Hours Every Night—The ‘3-Hour Sleep’ Myth Will Destroy Your Rank.

Rajdeep slept 7–8 hours every single night throughout his two-year preparation. He was emphatic: sleep is absolutely vital for brain health, memory consolidation, and mental clarity. Without proper sleep, retention capacity drops drastically. The myth that toppers survive on 3–4 hours of sleep is completely false.

6.  Condition Your Body Clock for the 2:00 PM–5:00 PM Exam Window.

Since NEET is held in the afternoon, Rajdeep deliberately trained his brain for peak performance during those exact hours. He ate light lunches, avoided afternoon naps completely, and took weekly mock tests from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM every Sunday. By exam day, his brain automatically switched into high-alert mode at 2:00 PM.

7.  Eliminate Social Media Completely—No Exceptions, No Moderation.

For the entire two years of his NEET preparation, Rajdeep completely abstained from Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and random video shorts. He used his phone strictly as a learning tool—for checking coaching schedules and test results. This is not about moderation; the students who crack the top 100 treat digital distractions as a non-negotiable elimination.

8.  Build an Unshakable Mathematical Foundation in the First Month of Class 11.

Rajdeep never feared Physics because he invested heavily in mastering vectors, calculus, and trigonometry right at the start of Class 11. He knew these mathematical tools would be used in every subsequent chapter. He maintained a dedicated Formula Notebook and solved 100–150 numerical problems per chapter. For medical aspirants who dread Physics, the fix is simple: make your mathematical tools rock-solid before mechanics begins.

9.  On Exam Day, Follow a Fixed Subject Order and Round-Based Attempt Strategy.

Rajdeep’s exam-day sequence was fixed and battle-tested across dozens of mock tests: Biology first (~40–45 min), then Chemistry (~40–45 min), then Physics (~60–70 min). Within each subject, he executed a two-round strategy—solving all easy and direct questions in Round 1, then returning to calculative and complex ones in Round 2 with majority marks already secured. He filled OMR bubbles section-wise after completing each subject, preventing any last-minute bubbling errors.

10.  Consistency Is the Only Superpower—Work Hard Every Single Day, Without Exception.

When asked for his single golden piece of advice, Rajdeep’s answer was unequivocal: maintain unyielding daily consistency. Work hard every single day—holidays, Sundays, festivals. No day off. No excuses. If you stay disciplined from day one until exam day, no target is impossible to achieve. This is not motivational fluff—it is the operating system of every AIR under 200.

Introduction

Every year, hundreds of thousands of students dream of securing a top rank in JEE Advanced. Yet only one becomes All India Rank 1. What truly sets that student apart? Is it exceptional intelligence, relentless hard work, or a fundamentally different way of thinking?

In this exclusive interview, I speak with Rajit Gupta (AIR 1, JEE Advanced 2025), one of my former students, to explore the complete journey behind his remarkable achievement. Through 23 carefully curated questions, Rajit shares the study strategies, mindset, discipline, decision-making process, and lessons that helped him reach the pinnacle of one of the world’s most challenging entrance examinations.

This is more than the story of an extraordinary rank. It is a practical blueprint for every serious JEE aspirant who wants to study smarter, avoid common mistakes, build lasting conceptual understanding, and take meaningful steps toward achieving their own IIT dream.

The Conversation

PHASE 1: THE GENESIS & THE “WHY”

Q1. The Result Moment: Walk us through the exact moment you (and your parents) saw that you secured a top All India Rank. What was that feeling like?

A: It was an incredibly special moment. The feeling of seeing All India Rank 1 on the screen is hard to describe—it was pure excitement and relief. I was with my parents when the results were declared, and we saw it together. They were absolutely thrilled, and sharing that immediate happiness with them meant everything to me. Shortly after, the news spread and the congratulations started rolling in, but that initial private moment with my parents is what I will cherish most.

Q2. The Catalyst: When did you officially start your JEE preparation? Was getting into an IIT always your ultimate dream, or did the realization happen later?

A: I officially started my JEE preparation at the beginning of Class 10. Getting into an IIT wasn’t actually a lifelong dream; rather, it was a decision that took shape later. After finishing my Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) preparation, I was at a crossroads trying to decide between the medical and engineering streams. After consulting with my father, we decided that the engineering pathway and preparing for JEE was the right fit for my academic interests.

Q3. Identifying the Path: How did you figure out your true academic interest? At what point did you decide to pursue engineering over medical or commerce?

A: My exposure during the IJSO preparation gave me a strong foundation in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology (PCMB), but I didn’t have much exposure to other fields like commerce. At the beginning of Class 10, I had a lot of doubts about whether to pursue medicine or engineering. My father suggested engineering because it involves Mathematics at a much higher and more conceptual level, which appealed to me. Additionally, we realized that switching from engineering to medical fields later is generally much harder than transitioning within technical sciences, so engineering felt like a more logical and flexible choice.

Q4. The Olympiad Edge: You have represented India in international Olympiads. How important are these exams (like IJSO, NSEP) in building the foundation for JEE?

A: Interestingly, I never specifically prepared for the senior Olympiads. While many believe Olympiad prep helps JEE, my experience was the reverse—preparing rigorously for JEE is what actually helped me succeed in the Olympiads, particularly in Physics. I never studied for the Olympiads in isolation. Once my JEE core syllabus was strong, transitioning to IPhO (International Physics Olympiad) requirements was straightforward. So, a solid JEE Advanced foundation is incredibly powerful and naturally opens doors to success in these prestigious international exams.

PHASE 2: ACADEMIC ARCHITECTURE & BLUEPRINT

Q5. The Daily Routine: What did your daily routine look like? Did you follow a rigid timetable (by the hour) or a flexible, target-based approach?

A: I did not follow a rigid, hour-by-hour timetable. Instead, I maintained a very normal and flexible routine centered around day-to-day goals. My approach was target-based: I made sure to complete my scheduled studies, attend coaching classes, and revise notes, but I also left ample time for meals, relaxation, and play. If I felt productive, I would study more; if I felt tired, I would adjust. Maintaining this balance and flexibility helped me stay consistent without burning out.

Q6. Sleep & Cycles: How many hours of sleep did you prioritize? Did you prefer studying late at night or early in the morning?

A: I prioritized sleep and never compromised on it. There is a common misconception that toppers sleep very little, but in my case, I made sure to get around 7 hours of sleep daily to maintain my efficiency. If I slept less—for instance, only 4 hours—I would inevitably feel exhausted, lose concentration in class, and become irritable. Getting the right amount of sleep is crucial for your brain to process information and perform at its best during long study hours.

Q7. Subject Allocation: How did you balance Physics, Chemistry, and Math? Did you allocate equal time to all, or base it entirely on your weak points?

A: My baseline strategy was to divide my daily study time equally among Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, primarily guided by the coaching homework. However, I kept this allocation dynamic. If I was struggling with a particular topic—such as coordinate geometry in Math—I would dedicate an extra hour or two specifically for revision and practice assignments. Giving equal initial weight to all subjects is important, but you must dynamically allocate extra time to strengthen your weaker areas until they match the level of the rest.

Q8. The Material Trap: Did you rely strictly on your coaching modules, or did you use multiple reference books (like H.C. Verma)? Is it better to solve one book three times or three books once?

A: I strongly believe in finding a trusted teacher and completely following their guidance rather than jumping between multiple sources. The same philosophy applies to study materials. It is far better to solve a single high-quality book or module three times than to solve three different books once. When you solve a book only once, you miss the deeper conceptual connections. Reviewing the same questions twice or three times helps solidify the problem-solving patterns in your mind so that the concept becomes permanently ingrained.

Q9. Material: Which material did you use for IJSO and what material did you use for IIT?

A: My preparation was heavily centered around my class notes and coaching materials, which I revised repeatedly.

• For Physics: I relied on the Allen modules, Concepts of Physics by H.C. Verma, and selected problems from Irodov. I also found Ashish Arora Sir’s lectures extremely helpful. Occasionally, I solved selected problems from Pathfinder.
• For Chemistry: Class notes were my primary resource for all three branches (Physical, Organic, Inorganic). For Physical Chemistry, I used Neeraj Kumar Sir’s book for select topics. For Inorganic Chemistry, I read specific chapters of J.D. Lee Concise alongside NCERT and the Allen modules.
• For Mathematics: I stuck strictly to the Allen modules, test series, and assignments.
• For IJSO (Biology & Science): I was entirely dependent on my biology class notes, which I revised upwards of 20 times by covering the page and recalling the content from memory.

Q10. Biology and IJSO: Being an IIT aspirant, how was your attitude towards Biology during IJSO preparation?

A: Since I hadn’t decided on engineering until the start of Class 10, my mindset during IJSO preparation was simply that of a dedicated Science Olympiad student, not an IIT aspirant. I took Biology very seriously, and that commitment was reflected in my performance across the selection stages. I believe every IJSO aspirant should study Biology diligently. It is a core part of the exam, and skipping it or treating it lightly simply because your future goal might be IIT is not a wise approach.

Q11. IOQM and IMO: Should students focus on IOQM if their future goal is IIT?

A: While appearing for IOQM is fine, preparing heavily for it is risky if your primary goal is JEE Advanced. The Mathematics Olympiad syllabus is vast and requires an immense amount of time and dedicated effort. A student with solid JEE preparation can easily achieve a decent score in IOQM in Class 12 without separate prep. If you dive too deep into Olympiad-level Math, you risk compromising your core JEE preparation in Physics and Chemistry, which could hurt your final rank.

Q12. School and Coaching: How did you manage the time with both school and coaching?

A: I didn’t actually attend regular school. I secured attendance relaxation and enrolled in a non-attending (dummy) school format. This is a common arrangement for serious JEE aspirants, as it allowed me to bypass daily school obligations and focus my energy entirely on coaching and self-study.

Q13. Sports: Did you only study during those preparation years or you also spent time in sports, workouts and other recreational activities?

A: I absolutely made sports and recreation a priority. I didn’t spend all my time studying; I loved playing cricket and badminton to unwind. In fact, even the day before the JEE Advanced exam, I went out to play. Engaging in sports was my preferred way to refresh my mind, maintain my energy, and prevent burnout.

PHASE 3: PSYCHOLOGY, ADVERSITIES, & THE MINDSET

Q14. Tackling Failure: What were your best and worst scores in mock tests? How did you mentally recover from a disastrous test score?

A: Fluctuations in mock test scores are completely normal; everyone experiences low scores at some point. When I got a poor score, I trained myself to look at it rationally rather than emotionally. Instead of feeling down or judging myself harshly, I treated the score as feedback. I would analyze the paper to find out why I lost marks, identify the weak areas, and write down a clear plan of action to fix them. Whether it was a conceptual gap or a simple calculation error, I viewed mistakes as valuable lessons to learn from.

Q15. The “Silly Mistakes” Protocol: Almost every student loses ranks to silly mistakes. Did you maintain a “mistake notebook,” and how did you actively minimize these errors?

A: I used to make a lot of silly mistakes because I would rush through the paper to save time for review. However, I realized that once your mind is set on a certain way of solving a question, you will likely read right past your own mistakes during review. Reviewing was not helping me catch errors, and rushing was causing them.

My parents and teachers suggested that I stop trying to save time for a final review. Instead, I focused on reading the question carefully, noting the data accurately, and solving it correctly the first time. Slowing down and ensuring accuracy on the first pass significantly reduced my silly mistakes.

Q16. Conquering Fear: Was there a specific topic (like Thermodynamics or Fluids) that terrified you? How did you overcome it?

A: If you are afraid of a topic, the only way to overcome it is through consistent practice, repeated revision of class notes, and clearing all doubts with your teachers.

However, it’s also important to distinguish between ‘fear’ and ‘preference.’ Fear is a weakness that you must overcome with effort. Preference is a strategic choice. For example, if there is a highly complex chapter that you find low-yielding, you might choose to prioritize other topics in the exam to maximize your score. But if a topic genuinely terrifies you, face it head-on by asking questions and practicing until the fear disappears.

Q17. Digital Distractions: How did you handle smartphones and social media? Did you cut them off completely, or use them in moderation?

A: I avoided major social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram entirely during my preparation years. My digital usage was restricted to WhatsApp and YouTube. YouTube was used strictly for light entertainment and relaxation during my breaks. WhatsApp was my primary communication tool, which I used in moderation to stay in touch with friends and participate in group discussions to solve study doubts.

Q18. The “Burnout” Days: What did you do on days when you were completely exhausted and absolutely did not want to study?

A: On days when I felt completely exhausted and had no motivation to study, I simply took a break and left my books alone. I would watch TV, play sports, or just relax. I knew that taking a break meant I would have to put in double the effort the next day to catch up, but I was mentally prepared for that. Forcing yourself to study during a state of burnout is counterproductive, so it is far better to rest and recharge.

PHASE 4: THE ECOSYSTEM (FAMILY, MENTORS, & PEERS)

Q19. The Peer Group: How important is a highly competitive friend circle in cracking JEE? Did you do group studies or doubt-solving with friends?

A: A highly competitive peer group is extremely beneficial. It fosters healthy competition and provides the positive peer pressure needed to keep your motivation high. Moreover, since every student has a unique thinking process, discussing problems with friends exposes you to multiple different ways of solving the same question. It refines your conceptual clarity and expands your problem-solving toolkit.

Q20. The Mentors: Were you ever hesitant to ask doubts in a class full of brilliant students? How did your bond with your teachers help you beyond academics?

A: I never hesitated to ask doubts, and I believe no student should. Your relationship with your teachers should be built on deep respect and trust. If you trust their guidance and communicate openly, you will not only clear your academic doubts but also receive invaluable mentorship. Teachers have years of experience guiding students through this high-pressure journey, and their support is essential for maintaining your confidence.

PHASE 5: THE D-DAY & THE AFTERMATH

Q21. The Exam Strategy: Did you have a pre-decided sequence for attempting the paper (e.g., Chemistry, then Physics, then Math), or did you adapt based on the paper’s difficulty?

A: I recommend that students never stop experimenting with different sequences during mock tests to find what suits them best. My personal preference was to attempt the paper in the PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) order. My primary strategy was to focus on scanning the paper for easy questions and solving them first. Remember, the goal of the exam is to maximize your marks, not to feed your ego by getting stuck on a tough question. If a question is too difficult or time-consuming, be flexible and move on.

Q22. Exam Temperament: Were you nervous on the actual day of the exam, or did giving continuous mock tests eliminate the “exam fear”?

A: I didn’t feel nervous on the day of the actual exam. Giving consistent mock tests throughout my preparation years essentially eliminated any exam fear. I treated mock tests as a practice playground where I could make mistakes and learn. By the time D-Day arrived, the actual JEE Advanced exam felt just like another mock test. I was able to stay calm and focus purely on solving the questions.

PHASE 6: UNPLUGGED & RAPID FIRE (HUMANIZING THE SCHOLAR)

Q23. The Ultimate Advice: What is your final, defining piece of advice for the millions of juniors who want to be in your shoes next year?

A: My most crucial advice is to learn how to control your temperament under pressure. While studying will make your concepts strong, delivering that knowledge in the exam hall requires emotional control. Do not get emotional or panicked if a strong topic turns out to be difficult in the exam—act like a machine, make rational choices, and move on. Secondly, follow your teachers’ guidance strictly; they are far more experienced than you. Finally, establish a consistent study schedule, and keep your parents supportive without letting them micromanage your preparation.

Devansh Sir’s 10 Insights

What Every JEE Aspirant Should Take Away from This Interview

1. You Don’t Need to Study 16 Hours a Day

Rajit followed a flexible, target-based routine — not a rigid hourly timetable. He prioritized 7 hours of sleep every single night and never compromised on it. He played cricket and badminton regularly, including the day before his JEE Advanced exam. The lesson is clear: consistency and efficiency beat raw hours. If you are sleeping 4 hours and grinding 16, you are hurting yourself, not helping.

2. One Book Three Times > Three Books Once

This is perhaps the most important insight in the entire interview. Rajit strictly followed his coaching modules and his teachers’ recommendations. He did not chase multiple reference books. He solved the same high-quality material repeatedly until the concepts were permanently ingrained. Stop hoarding books. Pick one trusted source, master it, and move on.

3. Trust Your Teacher Completely — Or Find One You Can

Rajit’s philosophy was simple: find a teacher you trust and follow their guidance without question. He never hesitated to ask doubts — whether they were basic or advanced. Your teacher has guided hundreds of students through this journey before you. Their experience is your shortcut. Use it.

4. Silly Mistakes Are Not Random — They Are a System Failure

Rajit discovered that rushing through problems to save time for review was actually causing his mistakes, not preventing them. His fix was counterintuitive: stop saving time for review entirely. Instead, read the question carefully, note the data accurately, and solve it correctly the first time. Accuracy on the first pass is worth more than a rushed review at the end.

5. Distinguish Between Fear and Preference

Rajit made an important distinction that most students miss. If a topic terrifies you, that is fear — and you must conquer it through practice and doubt-clearing. But if a topic is simply low-yielding and complex, you can strategically deprioritize it in the exam. Know the difference. Don’t waste energy fighting a preference when you should be conquering a fear.

6. Mock Tests Are Not Practice — They Are the Actual Training

Mock tests eliminated Rajit’s exam fear entirely. By the time JEE Advanced arrived, it felt like just another mock. Use mocks to experiment with your attempting sequence (PCM, CPM, MPC — find what works for you). Use mocks to normalize the pressure. Use mocks to learn that score fluctuations are normal. The student who has written 50 mocks will always outperform the student who has written 5.

7. JEE Preparation Naturally Opens Olympiad Doors

Rajit never prepared separately for senior Olympiads like NSEP or INPhO. His rigorous JEE preparation was sufficient to clear multiple Olympiad stages. If your JEE foundation is rock-solid, Olympiad success becomes a natural byproduct. However, do not dive deep into IOQM if your primary goal is JEE — it requires a vastly different skillset and can compromise your Physics and Chemistry preparation.

8. Burnout Is Real — Respect It

On days when Rajit had zero motivation, he simply stopped studying. He watched TV, played sports, or relaxed — knowing he would compensate the next day. Forcing yourself to study during burnout is counterproductive. Your brain needs rest to consolidate what it has learned. Take the break. Come back stronger.

9. Cut Social Media — But Don’t Cut Communication

Rajit completely avoided Facebook and Instagram. But he kept WhatsApp for academic discussions and YouTube for light entertainment during breaks. The key is not total digital isolation — it is ruthless elimination of time-wasting platforms while keeping the channels that serve your preparation.

10. On Exam Day, Be a Machine — Not a Student

Rajit’s ultimate advice is about emotional control. If your strongest subject turns out to be unexpectedly difficult in the exam, do not panic. Do not get emotional. Act like a machine: make rational choices, skip what you cannot solve, and maximize the marks available to you. The exam rewards composure, not ego.

Introduction

Every year, thousands of students dream of securing a top rank in JEE Advanced, but only a select few discover what truly separates exceptional performers from the rest.

In this exclusive interview, I sit down with Aksh Gogi, one of my former students, who secured an outstanding All India Rank 23 in JEE Advanced 2025. Beginning his competitive journey through the Junior Science Olympiad and later excelling in JEE Advanced, Aksh built his success on disciplined preparation, intelligent planning, and relentless consistency rather than shortcuts or excessive study hours.

Through 23 carefully curated questions, Aksh shares the strategies, habits, mistakes, examination techniques, and mindset that shaped his remarkable journey. From choosing the right study material and managing coaching to overcoming failures, handling distractions, optimizing mock tests, and developing an effective exam strategy, this interview provides practical guidance that every serious JEE aspirant can immediately implement.

If your goal is not merely to study harder but to prepare smarter, this interview will serve as a practical roadmap toward achieving your own IIT dream.

The Conversation

PHASE 1: THE GENESIS & THE “WHY”

Q1. The Result Moment: Walk us through the exact moment you (and your parents) saw that you secured a top All India Rank. What was that feeling like?

A: When the JEE Advanced results were declared, my parents actually checked the website and found my result before I did. Since we had already checked our answers against the official answer keys and calculated our marks, I had a gradual idea of where my score would stand, so the rank was not entirely a surprise. Nonetheless, officially seeing All India Rank (AIR) 23 was a wonderful feeling, and it was a moment of great joy and celebration for my family.

Q2. The Catalyst: When did you officially start your JEE preparation? Was getting into an IIT always your ultimate dream, or did the realization happen later?

A: I officially started my JEE preparation in Class 10. Prior to that, in Class 9, I prepared for the Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO). The goal of getting into an IIT took concrete shape during these years as I transitioned from Olympiad preparation to the core JEE syllabus.

Q3. Identifying the Path: How did you figure out your true academic interest? At what point did you decide to pursue engineering over medical or commerce?

A: My academic path became clear through my early exposure to competitive sciences. During Class 9, my preparation for the Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) helped me build a very strong foundation in Physics and Chemistry. Although I temporarily set Mathematics aside to focus on the IJSO syllabus, returning to Math in Class 10 made me realize my interest in the engineering stream. My natural inclination toward problem-solving, particularly in Physics—which became my strongest subject—solidified my decision to pursue the IIT engineering track rather than other streams.

Q4. The Olympiad Edge: You have represented India in international Olympiads. How important are these exams (like IJSO, NSEP) in building the foundation for JEE?

A: Preparing for junior Olympiads like the IJSO helps build a solid foundation, especially in Physics and Chemistry. In my case, it made my base in Physics very strong. However, I believe that preparing for the Mathematics Olympiad (IOQM) offers even greater benefits for developing problem-solving skills, even though I did not prepare for it myself.

Regarding senior Olympiads like the Physics Olympiad (NSEP):

• Up to the first stage (NSEP), the syllabus coincides heavily with the JEE Advanced syllabus, so they can be prepared for concurrently. I did not prepare separately for NSEP; I prepared for JEE and took NSEP as a practice exam.
• Beyond the first stage, the Olympiad syllabus begins to diverge from JEE. My recommendation for JEE aspirants is to focus primarily on their IIT prep and treat NSEP as a diagnostic practice exam, unless their specific, ultimate goal is to represent India at the International Physics Olympiad (IPhO).

PHASE 2: ACADEMIC ARCHITECTURE & BLUEPRINT

Q5. The Daily Routine: What did your daily routine look like? Did you follow a rigid timetable (by the hour) or a flexible, target-based approach?

A: My daily routine was flexible and adjusted based on whether I had scheduled classes or not. On days with coaching classes, I studied for a maximum of 8 effective hours. On self-study days without classes, my goal was to study for 10 hours, although achieving that target perfectly could sometimes be challenging due to natural variations in day-to-day efficiency. Rather than sticking to a rigid hourly timetable, I preferred planning my day around completing specific tasks and managing my workload adaptively.

Q6. Sleep & Cycles: How many hours of sleep did you prioritize? Did you prefer studying late at night or early in the morning?

A: I prioritized sleep and made sure never to compromise on it, generally sleeping for 6 to 7 hours every night. While there were rare days when I slept as little as 3 hours due to preparation demands, I strongly advise students not to keep their sleep cycles variable. If you want to sustain high performance over a two-year preparation journey, a consistent sleep schedule is essential for maintaining daily concentration and health.

Q7. Subject Allocation: How did you balance Physics, Chemistry, and Math? Did you allocate equal time to all, or base it entirely on your weak points?

A: I did not allocate equal time to all subjects. Instead, my balance was dynamic and based entirely on what topics were currently being taught, my relative strength in each subject, and where my weak areas lay. I believe the best approach is to work hard across all subjects, but to allocate extra time and effort dynamically to address your weak points and reinforce the subjects that require more attention.

Q8. The Material Trap: Did you rely strictly on your coaching modules, or did you use multiple reference books (like H.C. Verma)? Is it better to solve one book three times or three books once?

A: I relied primarily on my coaching modules and the specific resources recommended by my teachers. In Class 11, I strictly followed this path. In Physics, I did solve Pathfinder later on, but that was strictly for extra practice rather than trying to chase multiple competitive sources. If you ever feel that your study material is insufficient, it is far better to ask your teachers for additional targeted assignments than to go out and buy multiple reference books. Strictly adhering to your coaching materials and teacher recommendations is more than sufficient to secure a top-100 rank.

Q9. Material: Which material did you use for IJSO and what material did you use for IIT?

A: The specific materials I used during my preparation were:

**For IJSO Preparation**:
• Physics: Concepts of Physics by H.C. Verma.
• Physical Chemistry: Neeraj Kumar.
• Organic Chemistry: Coaching modules.
• Biology: Class notes, MCQs, and past year papers.

**For IIT JEE Preparation**:
• Physics: Coaching modules, class notes, and Pathfinder.
• Chemistry: Coaching modules, class notes, and Concise Inorganic Chemistry by J.D. Lee (which was highly recommended by my teachers).
• Mathematics: Coaching modules, class notes, and specific books recommended by my teachers containing advanced problem sets.

Q10. Biology and IJSO: Being an IIT aspirant, how was your attitude towards Biology during IJSO preparation?

A: During my IJSO preparation in Class 9, I took Biology very seriously and studied it thoroughly using class notes, MCQs, and past year papers. Since my immediate goal was to clear the Olympiad, I even completely paused my Mathematics studies to accommodate the Biology syllabus. While this temporary pause in Math did affect my mathematical momentum when transitioning to JEE in Class 10, it was a trade-off I chose to make in order to perform well in the Olympiad.

Q11. IOQM and IMO: Should students focus on IOQM if their future goal is IIT?

A: I did not prepare for IOQM, but looking back, I believe I should have participated. The problem-solving skills and mathematical depth developed through Olympiad mathematics are highly beneficial for JEE Advanced. While there may be some trade-offs or disadvantages that I am not aware of, I feel that attempting IOQM is a valuable experience for students whose future goal is IIT.

Q12. School and Coaching: How did you manage the time with both school and coaching?

A: Managing time between school and coaching evolved across different phases:

• Classes 9 and 10: In Class 9, during the COVID-19 pandemic, my classes were online, which naturally saved commuting time. In Class 10, I obtained permission from my school to leave after half a day. This provided me with crucial extra hours for self-study.
• Classes 11 and 12: I moved to Kota and enrolled in a dummy school. This eliminated daily school attendance requirements, allowing me to focus entirely on my coaching and self-study routine.

Q13. Sports: Did you only study during those preparation years or you also spent time in sports, workouts and other recreational activities?

A: I definitely did not spend all my time studying, and the idea that toppers do nothing else is a misconception. In Class 9 and 10, sports were a regular part of my school schedule. In Class 11 and 12 in Kota, I played table tennis or played the guitar during my study breaks. Engaging in these recreational activities served as a perfect mental break and helped keep my mind fresh.

PHASE 3: PSYCHOLOGY, ADVERSITIES, & THE MINDSET

Q14. Tackling Failure: What were your best and worst scores in mock tests? How did you mentally recover from a disastrous test score?

A: Initially, scoring poorly on a mock test would put me in a bad mood. However, as I wrote more computer-based mock tests, I realized that score fluctuations are a completely normal part of the process. I got used to these fluctuations, stopped taking low scores personally, and focused on analyzing the mistakes. The best way to recover from a disappointing score is to analyze why it happened, learn from the errors, and move forward.

Q15. The “Silly Mistakes” Protocol: Almost every student loses ranks to silly mistakes. Did you maintain a “mistake notebook,” and how did you actively minimize these errors?

A: I did not maintain a physical notebook for silly mistakes; instead, I mentally noted the exact nature of each error and made a conscious effort to remain aware of them during exams to avoid repeating them.

More importantly, I realized that many errors labeled as ‘silly mistakes’ are actually caused by a poor exam strategy. If your strategy is flawed, you will find yourself under immense time pressure toward the end of the exam, which inevitably leads to rushed calculations and errors. To minimize these mistakes, do not dismiss them as simple slips. Analyze the underlying cause—whether it was time pressure, stress, or a tactical error—and refine your overall exam strategy to address it.

Q16. Conquering Fear: Was there a specific topic (like Thermodynamics or Fluids) that terrified you? How did you overcome it?

A: I made sure never to avoid any topic, because to secure a rank in the top 100, you cannot afford to leave gaps in your preparation. Naturally, some topics are more challenging than others. Whenever I encountered a difficult topic, I dedicated extra time and focused practice to it. With patience and persistent effort, the difficulty slowly resolves, and the fear associated with the topic melts away.

Q17. Digital Distractions: How did you handle smartphones and social media? Did you cut them off completely, or use them in moderation?

A: I had a smartphone during my preparation, and it was a very useful tool because I used WhatsApp groups for academic discussions and doubt-solving. However, I did experience minor distractions. To handle this, I deleted the YouTube app when I realized it was taking up too much time, and I placed restrictions on my phone and application usage. Setting boundaries and maintaining self-discipline with your devices is crucial to keeping them as productive tools rather than distractions.

Q18. The “Burnout” Days: What did you do on days when you were completely exhausted and absolutely did not want to study?

A: On days when I felt completely exhausted and lacked the motivation to study, my productivity and efficiency naturally dropped. In such situations, I would sometimes force myself to study despite the lower efficiency. However, when that became counterproductive, I would take a break to change my mindset and refresh, and then resume my studies once I felt recharged.

PHASE 4: THE ECOSYSTEM (FAMILY, MENTORS, & PEERS)

Q19. The Peer Group: How important is a highly competitive friend circle in cracking JEE? Did you do group studies or doubt-solving with friends?

A: A competitive and supportive peer group is extremely valuable. I found online WhatsApp groups specifically dedicated to academic discussions to be highly useful. Discussing challenging problems with peers exposes you to different viewpoints and alternative methods, which refines your understanding and helps you learn faster.

Q20. The Mentors: Were you ever hesitant to ask doubts in a class full of brilliant students? How did your bond with your teachers help you beyond academics?

A: I maintained a close and proactive relationship with my teachers. In Class 11, I strictly followed their guidance. Whenever I needed additional practice material, I did not hesitate to ask them, and they always provided me with targeted resources. Having a strong bond with mentors gives you the confidence to ask questions and ensures you receive the right academic guidance throughout the high-pressure JEE journey.

PHASE 5: THE D-DAY & THE AFTERMATH

Q21. The Exam Strategy: Did you have a pre-decided sequence for attempting the paper (e.g., Chemistry, then Physics, then Math), or did you adapt based on the paper’s difficulty?

A: My exam strategy was based on allocating time rather than strictly attempting subjects in a fixed sequence, and it was designed to prevent getting stuck on any one subject.

Initially, I would allocate a set time block—such as 50 minutes for Physics—and then switch subjects. I typically started with Physics since it was my strongest subject. I would attempt to go through all the questions in that time block to identify what was solvable. If I ran into a block where I couldn’t solve any of the first six questions, I would immediately switch to Chemistry. I preferred keeping Chemistry between the other two subjects to allow time for the inorganic questions where I might need to spend more time thinking.

Rather than scanning the entire paper first to do easy questions in rounds, I preferred working through a subject comprehensively within its allocated time block, tackling both easy and medium questions as I went. However, flexibility is key. If a paper is highly unusual or one subject is exceptionally difficult, you must adapt your strategy dynamically and avoid over-investing time in a section that will yield fewer marks.

Q22. Exam Temperament: Were you nervous on the actual day of the exam, or did giving continuous mock tests eliminate the “exam fear”?

A: I felt a little nervous on the morning of the exam. However, the moment the test started, my anxiety vanished. Because I had written so many mock tests during my preparation, the actual JEE Advanced felt exactly like just another mock test. Writing continuous mock tests normalizes the exam environment and enables you to focus completely on problem-solving.

PHASE 6: UNPLUGGED & RAPID FIRE (HUMANIZING THE SCHOLAR)

Q23. The Ultimate Advice: What is your final, defining piece of advice for the millions of juniors who want to be in your shoes next year?

A: My defining advice for juniors is to prioritize sleep and maintain a consistent schedule. Since JEE is a long, two-year journey, keeping your sleep cycle variable will drain your energy and drop your daily efficiency. Secondly, plan your study targets daily and ensure that you follow through to achieve them. If you stay consistent, maintain self-discipline, and execute your daily plans, success will naturally follow.

Devansh Sir gives 10 Powerful Lessons Every JEE Aspirant Should Learn from AIR 23 Aksh Gogi

1. Success Is Built Through Thousands of Small Disciplined Decisions.

Top ranks are not produced by one brilliant study session. They are created by consistently making the right decisions every single day—sleeping on time, completing daily targets, revising regularly, and trusting the process.

2. Don’t Chase Resources. Master the Ones You Already Have.

Many students believe success requires collecting dozens of books. Aksh’s preparation proves otherwise. Coaching modules, teacher guidance, and repeated revision are more than sufficient to secure a top rank when studied thoroughly.

3. Your Teachers Know What You Need Better Than the Internet Does.

Whenever Aksh required additional practice, he did not search online for new books. He simply approached his teachers, who provided targeted assignments suited to his weaknesses. Personalized guidance always outperforms random resource collection.

4. Mock Tests Don’t Reveal Your Intelligence—They Reveal Your Strategy.

Poor mock test scores should never damage your confidence. Instead, they expose weaknesses in preparation, time management, and examination strategy. Students who analyze every mock test improve far faster than students who merely attempt more tests.

5. Most “Silly Mistakes” Aren’t Silly at All.

According to Aksh, calculation errors often originate from poor examination strategy rather than carelessness. When you feel rushed during the final minutes of the paper, mistakes become inevitable. Improve your strategy, and many so-called silly mistakes disappear automatically.

6. Flexibility Is More Powerful Than a Perfect Timetable.

Aksh never followed a rigid hour-by-hour schedule. Instead, he worked with daily targets and adjusted his study plan according to coaching classes, self-study requirements, and weaker subjects. Effective preparation adapts to reality instead of forcing unrealistic routines.

7. Consistent Sleep Is One of the Highest-Return Investments You Can Make.

Students often believe sacrificing sleep demonstrates dedication. Aksh believes exactly the opposite. A stable sleep schedule protects concentration, memory, decision-making, and long-term productivity throughout the demanding two-year preparation journey.

8. Eliminate Digital Distractions Before They Eliminate Your Rank.

Rather than relying on willpower alone, Aksh simply removed unnecessary temptations. He deleted distracting applications, restricted screen time, and transformed his smartphone into a productive academic tool instead of an endless source of entertainment.

9. Even Top Rankers Need Recreation.

Contrary to popular belief, Aksh did not spend every waking hour studying. Playing table tennis, practicing guitar, and taking meaningful breaks helped him maintain mental freshness and prevented burnout. Sustainable preparation always outperforms constant exhaustion.

10. Success Belongs to Students Who Execute, Not Those Who Merely Plan.

Knowledge alone never secures a top rank. What matters is daily execution—completing today’s targets, learning from today’s mistakes, asking today’s doubts, and improving a little every single day. Consistency transforms ordinary students into extraordinary achievers.

Final Thought

Perhaps the greatest lesson from Aksh Gogi’s journey is this:

Top ranks are rarely achieved by students who know the most. They are achieved by students who execute the fundamentals better than everyone else.

Simple routines. Smart strategies. Trusted mentors. Disciplined habits. Consistent effort.

When these principles are followed relentlessly over two years, exceptional ranks become the natural outcome—not a matter of luck.

Introduction

Every JEE aspirant wants a top rank, but very few understand the principles that consistently produce one.

In this exclusive interview, I speak with Vasu Vijay, one of my former students, who secured an outstanding AIR 56 in JEE Advanced 2025. Beyond his remarkable JEE performance, Vasu is also an International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) Gold Medalist, reflecting years of exceptional scientific aptitude and disciplined preparation. His journey demonstrates how a strong conceptual foundation built through Olympiads can become a powerful advantage for succeeding in one of the world’s toughest entrance examinations.

Through 23 thoughtfully designed questions, Vasu shares the strategies, habits, and mindset that guided his preparation—from Olympiads and concept-building to study planning, mock-test analysis, exam strategy, stress management, and the importance of mentors. More than a discussion about cracking JEE, this interview explores how top performers learn, think, and continuously improve.

Whether you are just beginning your preparation or striving for a top rank, the lessons in this conversation will help you study with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose.

The Conversation

Phase 1: The Journey Begins

Question 1: The Result Moment

Walk us through the exact moment you (and your parents) saw that you secured a top All India Rank. What was that feeling like?

Response 1:

It was early in the morning, around 6 A.M., when I checked the result. Seeing my rank was an incredibly happy and satisfying moment. When I shared the news with my family, they were overjoyed. It was a moment of celebration and relief for all of us after years of hard work.

Question 2: The Catalyst

When did you officially start your JEE preparation? Was getting into an IIT always your ultimate dream, or did the realization happen later?

Response 2:

I started preparing seriously for JEE during Classes 10 to 12. The idea of getting into an IIT had been in my mind for a few years before that, so it was a goal I had been working towards for quite some time.

Question 3: Identifying the Path

How did you figure out your true academic interest? At what point did you decide to pursue engineering over medical or commerce?

Response 3:

The decision developed gradually. I was always interested in building things, solving problems, and understanding how systems work. Engineering felt like the natural path because it combined creativity, innovation, and problem-solving.

Question 4: The Olympiad Edge

You have represented India in international Olympiads. How important are these exams (like IJSO, NSEP) in building the foundation for JEE?

Response 4:

Preparing seriously for Olympiads like IJSO helps build strong fundamentals, develops problem-solving skills, and teaches you how to learn effectively. These skills become extremely valuable later during JEE preparation.

Preparing for NSEP is a good idea if you are preparing for IIT, because the syllabus for both is very similar.

However, as you move on to the higher stages beyond NSEP towards IPhO, the Olympiad syllabus starts deviating from the IIT path. I would recommend my juniors to take NSEP very seriously, but not necessarily the higher stages of the Physics Olympiad if they do not wish to compromise their IIT preparation.

If they believe they can manage both the Olympiad and IIT, then they can continue with all the stages of IPhO.

Similar are my views towards the Chemistry Olympiad.

Phase 2: Academic Architecture & Blueprint

Question 5: The Daily Routine

What did your daily routine look like? Did you follow a rigid timetable (by the hour) or a flexible, target-based approach?

Response 5:

I mainly focused on completing my daily goals. Rather than following a rigid timetable, I preferred a target-based approach where the priority was getting important work done consistently. I always tried to study 6-8 hours daily, apart from my classes which used to consume around 5-6 hours of time. On a holiday, I used to study a minimum of 10 hours.

Question 6: Sleep & Cycles

How many hours of sleep did you prioritize? Did you prefer studying late at night or early in the morning?

Response 6:

I generally preferred studying a little later at night, but I always tried to get at least 6–7 hours of sleep. Adequate sleep was important for maintaining concentration and productivity.

Question 7: Subject Allocation

How did you balance Physics, Chemistry, and Math? Did you allocate equal time to all, or base it entirely on your weak points?

Response 7:

In the beginning, I gave roughly equal attention to all three subjects. During revision, however, I adjusted my time according to my needs, spending more time on weaker subjects or topics that required additional work.

Question 8: The Material Trap

Did you rely strictly on your coaching modules, or did you use multiple reference books (like H.C. Verma)? Is it better to solve one book three times or three books once?

Response 8:

For concept-building, solving the same high-quality material multiple times is usually sufficient. It also saves time because you can focus on strengthening weak areas rather than repeatedly solving questions you are already comfortable with.

In my opinion, you should follow the material provided in your coaching institute and the material which your teachers recommend. That is generally sufficient.

However, if you feel bored or want additional practice, exploring new books can provide fresh problem formulations based on similar concepts. But more is not always better, hunting for new books all the time is also not a good idea.

Question 9: Study Material

Which material did you use for IJSO and what material did you use for IIT?

Response 9:

For Physics during IJSO preparation, I mainly used H.C. Verma and Past Year Questions. In other subjects I primarily used class notes and Past Year Questions of NSEJS and INJSO.

For IIT-JEE, I relied primarily on coaching material. In physics, in addition I used H.C. Verma and selected topics from I.E. Irodov. In the other subjects, my primary focus remained on coaching material. If at all I followed any other resources, they were only the ones suggested by my teachers to me. My recommendation is, just follow your coaching material and your teachers.

Question 10: Biology and IJSO

Being an IIT aspirant, how was your attitude towards Biology during IJSO preparation?

Response 10:

One thing I enjoyed about IJSO Biology was that it was highly application-oriented and logical. Because of that, I found it interesting and engaging rather than something that had to be memorized. Since I was in Class 9 at the time, I also had sufficient time to balance it with future JEE preparation.

Question 11: IOQM and IMO

Should students focus on IOQM if their future goal is IIT?

Response 11:

I think this depends largely on personal interest. Attempting IOQM can be a good way to stay connected with mathematical thinking. However, the skills and syllabus required for higher-level Olympiad mathematics are quite different from JEE, so it is not necessary for every IIT aspirant.

Question 12: School and Coaching

How did you manage the time with both school and coaching?

Response 12:

I was enrolled in a dummy school, so managing regular school commitments was not a challenge for me.

Question 13: Sports and Recreation

Did you only study during those preparation years or did you also spend time in sports, workouts, and other recreational activities?

Response 13:

I practiced yoga in the mornings during my JEE preparation. Apart from that, I occasionally watched television, but most of my time was focused on academics.

Phase 3: Psychology, Adversities & Mindset

Question 14: Tackling Failure

What were your best and worst scores in mock tests? How did you mentally recover from a disastrous test score?

Response 14:

My best score was around 330 out of 360, while my lowest was around 190. Whenever I performed poorly, I carefully analysed where I had lost marks and why. I also discussed both the academic and psychological aspects of the situation with my teachers. At the end of the day, a mock test is only a tool for improvement, not a final judgment.

Question 15: The “Silly Mistakes” Protocol

Almost every student loses ranks to silly mistakes. Did you maintain a “mistake notebook,” and how did you actively minimize these errors?

Response 15:

Instead of maintaining a separate notebook, I marked questions directly in my hard copies and categorised them according to the type of mistake and its underlying cause. I would carefully review these questions the day after the exam and focus on preventing similar errors in the future.

Question 16: Conquering Fear

Was there a specific topic (like Thermodynamics or Fluids) that terrified you? How did you overcome it?

Response 16:

Topics such as parts of Rigid Body Dynamics and Fluid Dynamics were initially difficult because building intuition for them took time. Some concepts were also quite dense. Rather than fearing them, I accepted that they would require more effort and invested additional time in understanding them properly.

Question 17: Digital Distractions

How did you handle smartphones and social media? Did you cut them off completely, or use them in moderation?

Response 17:

I used my phone normally, but primarily for communication through WhatsApp. I did not spend significant time on social media platforms, which helped me stay focused without feeling completely disconnected.

Question 18: The “Burnout” Days

What did you do on days when you were completely exhausted and absolutely did not want to study?

Response 18:

If I felt genuinely tired, I would take a short nap or play a game for a while before returning to work. Since I lived at home, burnout was not a major issue for me, but I always tried to listen to my body when I needed a break.

Phase 4: The Ecosystem (Family, Mentors & Peers)

Question 19: The Peer Group

How important is a highly competitive friend circle in cracking JEE? Did you do group studies or doubt-solving with friends?

Response 19:

Discussing doubts and brainstorming with friends helped me develop a much deeper understanding of concepts. It also provided a useful reality check regarding my preparation. At the same time, it is important not to feel intimidated by what others are doing. What matters most is how effectively you are using your own time and opportunities.

Question 20: The Mentors

Were you ever hesitant to ask doubts in a class full of brilliant students? How did your bond with your teachers help you beyond academics?

Response 20:

Yes, I did feel hesitant in some classes initially. However, overcoming that hesitation and asking doubts is extremely valuable. Building a strong relationship with teachers helps not only academically but also in developing confidence, perspective, and better decision-making throughout the preparation journey.

Phase 5: The Exam Day & The Aftermath

Question 21: The Exam Strategy

Did you have a pre-decided sequence for attempting the paper (e.g., Chemistry, then Physics, then Math), or did you adapt based on the paper’s difficulty?

Response 21:

I always adapted my strategy according to the paper. My priority was to identify and solve the easier questions first, secure those marks, and then return to the more challenging questions later.

Question 22: Exam Temperament

Were you nervous on the actual day of the exam, or did giving continuous mock tests eliminate the “exam fear”?

Response 22:

By the time the actual exam arrived, I had very little exam anxiety. Regular mock tests had helped me build familiarity with the exam environment and develop the confidence needed to perform calmly under pressure.

Once I started attempting my actual IIT exam, it felt like a regular mock test only to me.

Phase 6: Unplugged & Rapid Fire

Question 23: The Ultimate Advice

What is your final, defining piece of advice for the millions of juniors who want to be in your shoes next year?

Response 23:

Build strong relationships with your teachers, focus deeply on conceptual understanding, surround yourself with a positive and motivated peer group, and make sure you have a healthy way to manage stress. These factors may seem simple, but over time they can make a tremendous difference in both your preparation and your final outcome.

Devansh Sir’s 10 Insights

1. Build Concepts Before You Chase Ranks.

Vasu’s greatest strength was never memorization—it was understanding. A deep conceptual foundation built through Olympiads made advanced JEE problems feel logical instead of intimidating. Students who truly understand concepts rarely fear difficult questions.

2. Learn Once, Revise Many Times.

The temptation to keep buying new books is one of the biggest mistakes aspirants make. Vasu recommends mastering one excellent resource repeatedly rather than collecting dozens of unfinished books. Depth always beats variety.

3. Olympiads Can Give You a Multi-Year Advantage.

Preparing for Olympiads such as IJSO and NSEP develops analytical thinking, scientific curiosity, and advanced problem-solving skills long before JEE preparation becomes intensive. Students who start early often spend less time struggling later.

4. Hard Work Without Reflection Is Incomplete.

Every mock test should answer one question: “Why did I lose marks?” Instead of worrying about scores, Vasu analyzed mistakes, discussed them with teachers, and transformed every failure into a lesson for the next examination.

5. Great Students Don’t Fear Difficult Topics—They Invest More Time in Them.

Instead of avoiding challenging chapters like Fluid Mechanics or Rotational Dynamics, Vasu simply accepted that some concepts demand additional effort. Fear disappears when understanding increases.

6. Your Teachers Can Accelerate Your Journey More Than Any Book.

One of Vasu’s strongest messages is to build meaningful relationships with your teachers. Asking doubts without hesitation, seeking guidance regularly, and discussing both academic and psychological challenges dramatically shortens the learning curve.

7. Study Targets Matter More Than Study Timetables.

Rather than following a rigid hourly schedule, Vasu focused on completing meaningful daily goals. Flexible, target-based planning allowed him to remain productive without becoming trapped by unrealistic timetables.

8. Examination Strategy Is a Skill That Must Be Practiced.

On the actual exam day, Vasu did not blindly follow a fixed subject order. He adapted intelligently, solved easier questions first, secured guaranteed marks, and returned later to tougher problems. Smart decisions inside the examination hall can significantly improve your final rank.

9. Success Doesn’t Require Isolation.

Contrary to popular belief, Vasu maintained a healthy routine that included yoga, meaningful discussions with friends, and balanced use of technology. Sustainable success comes from managing your energy—not from studying every waking minute.

10. The Best Students Never Stop Improving.

Perhaps the most inspiring lesson from Vasu’s journey is his growth mindset. Every difficult topic became an opportunity to learn. Every mock test became feedback. Every conversation with teachers became a chance to improve. This relentless commitment to continuous learning ultimately separated him from thousands of equally hardworking aspirants.

Final Thought

The defining lesson from Vasu Vijay’s journey is simple:

Extraordinary ranks are not achieved by students who merely solve the maximum number of questions. They are achieved by students who understand concepts deeply, revise intelligently, trust great mentors, analyze every mistake, and keep improving every single day.

When learning becomes deeper than memorization, preparation becomes more enjoyable, confidence grows naturally, and success becomes the logical outcome rather than a matter of chance.