Introduction

The IIT Madras BS Degree Qualifier Exam is an important milestone for students aspiring to enroll in the program. While the exam may seem daunting, following a structured and consistent approach can help you achieve success. Based on my personal experience, here are some actionable tips to help you excel in the qualifier exam

1. Study Consistently Every Day

The first and most crucial step to succeeding in the qualifier is consistent study. Even dedicating one hour a day can lead to remarkable progress over time. The key is to stay committed and disciplined in your approach.

Why It Works

Daily study helps in better retention of concepts.

It minimizes the need for last-minute cramming, reducing stress during the exam.

How to Implement

Create a daily schedule and allocate specific time slots for studying.

Focus on one topic or subject at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Consistency doesn’t mean long hours of study; instead, it’s about steady and focused efforts.

2. Don’t Underestimate Graded and Practice Assignments

Graded and practice assignments are not just routine tasks—they are the cornerstone of your preparation. These assignments are designed to strengthen your understanding and give you a glimpse of the exam pattern.

Why They Are Important

They help you identify your strengths and weaknesses.

Many questions in the qualifier exam are modeled after these assignments.

How to Use Them Effectively

Treat every assignment as a mock test and attempt it with full focus.

Review your answers and understand where you went wrong.

By mastering these assignments, you’ll build the confidence and knowledge needed to tackle the real exam.

3. Make Your Own Notes

While it might be tempting to rely on pre-written or pre-handwritten notes, making your own notes is far more effective. Writing your notes helps you understand and remember the material better.

Benefits of Personal Notes

Writing notes reinforces learning and improves retention.

You can customize your notes to focus on topics you find challenging.

How to Make Effective Notes

Summarize each topic in your own words after studying it.

Highlight key points, formulas, and concepts for quick revision.

Your personal notes will become your most reliable resource during the final stages of your preparation.

4. Use Additional Resources if Needed

If you struggle to understand certain topics or concepts, don’t hesitate to explore external resources. While the IIT Madras content is comprehensive, supplementary resources can provide clarity and additional practice.

Recommended Resources

Let’s Learn: This platform offers a specialized qualifier batch that many students have found helpful.

YouTube: There are numerous free tutorials and explanatory videos available.

Important Note

While external resources can be beneficial, ensure you prioritize the IIT Madras course content. Use additional resources only to strengthen areas where you feel less confident.

5. Focus on Computational Thinking (CT)

Computational Thinking (CT) is a relatively new subject for most students and plays a significant role in the qualifier. While English, mathematics, and statistics may feel familiar, CT requires a fresh perspective and dedicated attention.

Why CT Matters

It carries significant weight in the exam

Strong performance in CT can significantly boost your overall score.

How to Master CT

Focus on the lectures provided by IIT Madras—they are engaging and sufficient.

Practice solving problems regularly to improve your understanding and application skills.

By building a strong foundation in CT, you can secure maximum marks in this subject.

6. Solve Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs)

Practicing PYQs is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the qualifier. These papers give you an idea of the question patterns, difficulty levels, and time management strategies.

Benefits of Solving PYQs

Familiarizes you with the exam format.

Helps you identify commonly tested concepts and topics.

How to Use PYQs

Solve them under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam.

Analyze your performance and work on areas where you struggled.

With consistent practice, you’ll gain the confidence to tackle the qualifier with ease.

Final Words of Advice

The IIT Madras BS Degree Qualifier Exam is challenging, but it’s not insurmountable. By studying consistently, leveraging assignments, making personal notes, and focusing on key subjects like CT, you can achieve excellent results. Remember to stay positive and confident throughout your preparation.

You’ve got this!

Anas Khan
Student at IIT Madras BS And a Tech Geek