15-Day Strategy to Crack GSET: Smart Study with Simple Steps

The Gujarat State Eligibility Test (GSET) is approaching, and with only two weeks remaining, many aspirants are searching for effective strategies to utilize this limited time efficiently. This blog presents some practical tips and strategies that candidates can follow to prepare for the examination in about fifteen days. These suggestions are based on the writer’s personal experience of qualifying for GSET in English Literature and are useful for aspirants from all subjects.

The first step is to set a realistic target score. Candidates should review the average cut-off marks from previous years and decide on a score they wish to achieve. It is important to identify one’s stronger paper—either Paper 1 (General Paper) or Paper 2 (Subject-specific Paper)—and plan the preparation accordingly.

For example, if the target score is 190, and the candidate feels more confident about Paper 1, then the goal may be to secure around 36 out of 50 in Paper 1 and about 60 out of 100 in Paper 2. Even if the final score is slightly below the target (by 2–4 marks), the chances of qualification remain, depending on the difficulty level of the exam and the overall merit. Setting such personal goals helps in maintaining motivation and focus throughout the preparation period.

One of the most effective strategies is to solve previous years’ question papers (PYQs). The previous papers and answer keys can be downloaded from the official GSET website:

Previous Papers: https://gujaratset.ac.in/en/oldpap

Answer Keys: https://gujaratset.ac.in/en/anskey

It is advisable to practice at least the last ten years of Paper 1 and the last five years of Paper 2. While solving these papers, candidates will observe that certain topics and question patterns are frequently repeated. Recognizing these recurring areas can significantly improve accuracy and confidence.

Next, candidates should list all the units from both papers and classify them into three categories:

Strong Units – topics one is confident about.

Moderate Units – topics that need more revision and understanding.

Weak Units – topics that are difficult, but where at least basic or easy-level questions can be attempted.

This categorization helps in prioritizing study time effectively. The same method can be applied to both Paper 1 and Paper 2.

For Paper 2, it is beneficial to focus on shorter or familiar units first and then move on to lengthy or complex ones. Since approximately ten questions are asked from each unit in Paper 2, preparation should be planned accordingly.

For Paper 1, candidates can divide the units into three parts as well:

Part 1 – Strong Units: Topics in which the candidate can answer most questions correctly.

Part 2 – Moderate Units: Topics that can be improved with revision, where the candidate can answer 3–4 questions out of 5 correctly.

Part 3 – Weak Units: Topics that are comparatively challenging, but where at least easy-level questions can be attempted.

In Paper 1, aspirants should particularly strengthen their performance in scoring units such as Comprehension, Teaching Aptitude, Research Aptitude, and Communication, as these sections often contribute significantly to the total marks.

This method ensures balanced preparation and helps maximize marks across both papers.

While solving previous papers, candidates should also set a time limit. For instance, allocate about 50–60 minutes for one Paper 1 set and attempt it sincerely within that time frame. This improves time management and exam temperament.

For additional preparation support, certain online resources can be very useful.

For Paper 1, the YouTube channel of Kumar Bharat provides concise and well-structured videos covering an overview of all the units. These short lectures clarify fundamental concepts and are highly effective for quick revision.

 Kumar Bharat YouTube Channel – Paper 1 Playlists

For Paper 2 (English), the YouTube channel of Sunaina Jethani is particularly helpful. Her videos present one-liner explanations of major topics and frequently asked questions, which can greatly aid in last-minute revision and quick recall during the exam.

Sunaina Jethani YouTube Channel – English Literature

UGC NET English (Paper 2 – English Specific)

For both Paper 1 and Paper 2, the following channels also provide valuable content, including mock tests, topic-wise analysis, and strategy discussions: UGC NET Adda247

Aspirants should, however, remember that time is limited. At this stage, it is not practical to watch all the videos for every topic. Instead, they should selectively view videos based on their previous year questions (PYQs) and weaker units. Focusing only on those topics that need clarity or quick revision will make preparation more efficient during these final days.

Use AI Tools for Smarter Learning
I would suggest that aspirants make use of Generative AI tools during their preparation. If you are finding any topic difficult to understand or remember, ask AI platforms like ChatGPT to explain it in a simpler way and give tips to remember it better.

You can also add all your study materials and sources to NotebookLM and ask it to create summaries, flashcards, or mind maps. This will help you revise faster, understand concepts clearly, and retain them effectively.

Consistency, not intensity, is the key to success in any exam.

Thank you for visiting. Hope this guide helps you prepare effectively for your exams.