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As more than 12 to 13 lakh candidates appear every year in CUET UG, a proper preparation strategy is important to score well.
The CUET UG Exam 2026 will be held from May 11 to May 31, 2026. As Around 5 months are left for the exam, you should start your preparation early, as per the proper NCERT Format.
- In the first 2 months, cover the complete NCERT, as more than 90% questions will be from the NCERT.
- In the 3rd or 4th Month, solve the topic-wise MCQs and PYQs daily and practice, around 1,500–2,000 questions overall.
- In the Last month, your complete focus should be on revision and analysing your mistakes properly.
To score high, focus more on topics carrying high-weightage and have a proper understanding of the exam pattern.
In these 5 months, solve 25 to 35 full-length mock tests and practice the last 10 to 15 years of PYQs.
Check:
Key Summary
In this Article, we have discussed about CUET Preparation Tips 2026 including the Study Plan, Time Table & Books.
- In CUET UG around 50% of the questions are asked from 30 to 35% of the syllabus, which makes prioritzing topics important.
- By starting your preparation around 5 months early will help the candidates to complete the revision twice.
- By attempting 25 to 35 full length mock tests will help in time management and reducing the negative marking.
- Focus on the latest syllabus pattern, as the deleted topics are excluded from the syllabus.
How to prepare for CUET UG 2026?
The CUET Preparation requires a monthly-preparation strategy, as the exam will not just test the knowledge but the speed, consistency and accuracy as well.
The CUET UG Exam has a proper exam pattern include 50 MCQs carrying 250 marks , with +5 marks given for each correct answer and -1 deducted for each incorrect answer.
Below is a 5-month CUET UG 2026 preparation strategy, as per proper pattern and scoring way:
Month 1: Exam Understanding & Conceptual Foundation
The First month should include the basic understanding of CUET UG Syllabus and Exam-Pattern, starting from NCERT-Based concepts.
- You should cover 30 to 35% syllabus, giving priority to high-weightage NCERT Chapters.
- Start with basic topics of general test including the arithmetic and reasoning fundamentals.
- The language preparation should be started with 20 to 30 minutes of reading comprehension.
| Focus Area | What to Study & Do | Time Allocation | Data-Backed Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exam Familiarisation |
| 3–4 days | Prevents syllabus misalignment and over-preparation |
| NCERT Concepts | Start Class 11 & 12 NCERTs (theory + examples) for domain subjects | 2–3 hrs/day | NCERT-based concepts form the base of most questions |
| Language Basics | Daily RC practice, grammar rules, basic vocabulary | 30–40 mins/day | Improves reading speed and comprehension accuracy |
| General Test Basics | Arithmetic fundamentals, reasoning basics | 30–40 mins/day | Builds aptitude foundation |
| Note Making | Short notes, formulas, concept summaries | Daily | Reduces final revision load |
Month 2: Syllabus Completion & Topic-Wise Practice
In Month 2, you should finish your remaining syllabus, and start solving topic-wise MCQs.
- Solve around 30 to 40 MCQs daily, topic-wise after studying complete concepts.
- Cover Static, G.K. Current affairs of last 6 months for general test.
- Start giving sectional tests around 1 to 2 per week, to assess the conceptual gaps.
- Revise each subject once atleast after 10 to 12 days.
| Focus Area | What to Study & Do | Time Allocation | Data-Backed Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| NCERT Completion | Finish remaining Class 11 & 12 chapters | 2.5–3 hrs/day | Achieve 70–80% syllabus coverage |
| Topic-wise MCQs | Practice MCQs after every topic | 1–1.5 hrs/day | Strengthens concept retention |
| Language Strengthening | Vocabulary lists, grammar drills, RC speed tests | 40–50 mins/day | Improves hit rate |
| General Test Expansion | Static GK + last 6 months current affairs | 30–40 mins/day | Builds scoring cushion |
| Sectional Tests | 1–2 sectional tests per week | Weekly | Performance benchmarking |
Month 3: PYQs & Sectional Mock Acceleration
- In 3rd month you should focus more on exam-based preparation rather learning. Start solving the PYQs on an priority basis.
- Solve 10-15 PYQs for each subject, which are availableon different website along with reference books.
- Attempt around 2-3 sectional mock-test every week.
| Focus Area | What to Study & Do | Time Allocation | Data-Backed Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| PYQs Practice | Solve 10–15 years PYQs (subject-wise) | 2–2.5 hrs/day | Identifies repeating topics |
| Sectional Mocks | 2–3 timed mocks per week | Weekly | Speed building |
| Error Analysis | Maintain error log, revise weak areas | Daily | Accuracy improvement |
| Language Timed Practice | RCs with strict time limits | 30–40 mins/day | Speed + precision |
| General Test Advanced | DI sets, puzzles, advanced reasoning | 30–40 mins/day | Adaptability |
Month 4: Full-Length Mocks & Score Optimisation
The Month-4 for preparation is most crucial and scoring, in which your focus should be on mock-tests along with time management.
- Attempt 6 to 8 full length mock tests in this month.
- In each mock tests analyse your accuracy%, time-spent and weak areas.
| Focus Area | What to Study & Do | Time Allocation | Data-Backed Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Length Mocks | 6–8 full CUET mocks | Weekly | Exam temperament |
| Mock Analysis | Accuracy %, time spent, weak areas | Post-mock | Score refinement |
| Targeted Revision | High-weightage chapters & weak topics | 2 hrs/day | Score stabilisation |
| Strategy Testing | Section order, time split | Weekly | Attempt efficiency |
| PYQ Revision | Re-solve important PYQs | Alternate days | Confidence boost |
Month 5: Revision, Consistency & Exam Readiness
The final month should be for revision and building your confidence.
- You should not prepare any new topic in this stage.
- You should give atleast 5-6 hours daily for preparation.
- Attempt atleast 8 to 10 full length mock-tests.
| Focus Area | What to Study & Do | Time Allocation | Data-Backed Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Mocks | 8–10 mocks (1 every 3–4 days) | Weekly | Peak readiness |
| Rapid Revision | Short notes, formulas, key facts | Daily | Fast recall |
| Error Book Review | Revise repeated mistakes | Daily | Accuacy control |
| Exam Slot Practice | Mocks at actual exam time | Weekly | Mental alignment |
| Light Study | No new topics | — | Stress management |
Check: CUET UG Syllabus
Ques. When Should I Ideally Start Preparing for CUET UG 2026 to Score Above the Cutoff?
Ans. In CUET, to score above the CUET UG Cutoff, preparation should began atleast 5 to 6 months before the exam.
By starting your preparation on an early basis, the candidates can cover more subject and do better performance in mock tests.
| Start Time Before Exam | Preparation Coverage | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 6 Months | Full syllabus + multiple revisions | High probability of top colleges |
| 4–5 Months | Syllabus completion + mocks | Above-cutoff performance |
| 3 Months | Partial syllabus + heavy mocks | Borderline cutoff |
| <2 Months | Crash prep only | High risk of low score |
Ques. How Many Subjects Should I Choose for CUET UG to Maximize My Score?
Ans. In CUET, scoring right number of subjects are more important than choosing the maximum number of allowed subjects.
| Student Profile | Ideal No. of Subjects | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Class 12 (Science/Commerce) | 3–4 Domains + 1 Language | Depth over overload |
| Humanities Students | 2–3 Domains + Language + GT | Balanced scoring |
| Dropper / Partial Prep | 2 Domains + Language | Higher accuracy |
| Over-selection (>6 subjects) | Not recommended | Low revision time |
Ques. What Is the Biggest Mistake Students Make During CUET UG Preparation?
Ans. In CUET Preparation, the most common mistakes are studying everything, without any preparation.
- The CUET UG Focuses on high-weightage topics, accuracy and speed.
- Around 60 to 70% questions are asked from NCERT.
- The Smart preparation, focuses on topics having high return.
- By ignoring your weak areas, can lower your normalized scores.
CUET UG Preparation: Important topics you should prioritize
The CUET Preparation, not only includes covering the syllabus, it also includes giving priority to high-weightage topics, which contribute more in the total score.
As per the CUET Exam trends, there are certain chapters carrying high-weightage every year in the exam, which makes the smart topic selection important for improvement of rank.
CUET UG Important Topics: Subject-wise Weightage
- Around 60 to 70% CUET Questions are from repetitive chapters of NCERT.
- The Reading comprehension, has the highest contribution in the total score, which makes Language papers, daily RC practice important.
- In the general test, the arithmetic and reasoning section, have more weightage as compared to major G.K. topics.
- The Domain subjects require conceptual clarity more than remembering the topics, in which the numerical/application-based are repeated every year.
| Subject | High-Priority Topics | Weightage Share |
|---|---|---|
| Language (Any) | Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary (Synonyms/Antonyms), Grammar | 60–65% |
| General Test | Arithmetic (Ratio, %, SI), Logical Reasoning, Current Affairs | 65–70% |
| Mathematics | Calculus, Algebra, Coordinate Geometry | 55–60% |
| Physics | Current Electricity, Modern Physics, Laws of Motion | 50–55% |
| Chemistry | Chemical Bonding, Coordination Compounds, Electrochemistry | 55–60% |
| Biology | Genetics, Ecology, Human Physiology | 60–65% |
| Accountancy | Financial Statements, Accounting Ratios, Partnership | 65–70% |
| Economics | Microeconomics, National Income, Demand & Supply | 55–60% |
| History | Modern India, National Movement, Colonial Policies | 50–55% |
Ques. Can I Prepare for CUET UG 2026 Without Coaching?
Ans. Yes, you can appear for CUET UG without coaching, by following a structured plan and rely on NCERT-Based questions. As per the previous-year data, a large number of high scoring candidates prepare through self study with PYQs and mock test.
Self-Study vs Coaching Preparation
| Parameter | Self-Study | Coaching |
|---|---|---|
| Core Content | NCERT + PYQs | Same NCERT base |
| Cost | Low | High |
| Flexibility | High | Fixed schedule |
| Success Depends On | Discipline & analysis | Classroom pace |
Ques. Are NCERT Examples and In-Text Questions Important for CUET UG?
Ans. Yes, NCERT Examples and text-based questions are important in CUET UG. Most of the questions are directly asked from NCERT Solved examples.
Role of NCERT Content in CUET UG
| NCERT Component | Importance Level | Exam Impact |
|---|---|---|
| In-text Questions | Very High | Concept framing |
| Solved Examples | Very High | Formula application |
| End-of-Chapter Exercises | High | Practice depth |
| Diagrams & Tables | Moderate | Direct factual MCQs |
Ques. How Should I Prioritize Topics If I Am Short on Preparation Time?
Ans. When the time is less, you should give priority to the weightage and accuracy, not on syllabus completion. With prioritizing the topics smartly, you can cross the required cutoff.
High-Return Topic Prioritization Strategy
| Priority Level | Topics to Focus On | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| High | Repeated PYQ topics | Maximum score yield |
| Medium | Concept-based NCERT chapters | Moderate weightage |
| Low | Rare or lengthy chapters | Time-consuming |
CUET Preparation: How Many Mock Tests & PYQs Are Really Enough?
In CUET, Mock tests and PYQs are used to track your final performance in CUET UG Preparation.
- The NCERT Focuses on building the concepts, converting your preparation into marks.
- As per the previous year CUET Exam, the candidates who attempt more than 25+ mock tests along with regular PYQs analysis can score high due to better time management.
- The table below gives a clear, subject-wise benchmark for how many mock tests and PYQs an aspirant should solve to be exam-ready.
| Subject | Role in Preparation | PYQs to Solve | Mock Tests to Attempt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language | Improves reading speed, accuracy & comprehension | 300–400 questions | 6–8 mocks |
| General Test | Builds speed in arithmetic & reasoning | 350–450 questions | 7–9 mocks |
| Mathematics | Enhances numerical accuracy & time efficiency | 250–350 questions | 6–8 mocks |
| Physics | Strengthens application-based concepts | 200–300 questions | 5–7 mocks |
| Chemistry | Reinforces NCERT-based theory + numericals | 200–300 questions | 5–7 mocks |
| Biology | Improves concept recall & factual accuracy | 250–350 questions | 6–8 mocks |
| Accountancy | Reduces calculation errors | 250–350 questions | 6–8 mocks |
| Economics | Improves data interpretation & concept clarity | 200–300 questions | 5–7 mocks |
Check:
Ques. Should I Focus More on Mock Tests or Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs)?
Ans. Both Mock tests and PYQs, play important role in the CUET UG Preparation. The PYQs will help you understand what kind of questions are asked, whereas the mock test will test you for how it will be asked under limited time pressure.
- In CUET, PYQs carry high-weightage chapters every year.
- The PYQs can improve the accuracy, mocks will improve the time management.
Ques. From Which Month Should I Start Attempting CUET UG Mock Tests?
Ans. The CUET UG Canddiates should start the sectional mock tests after 1 month of preparation and full length mock tests by the third month.
Ideal Mock Test Start Time
| Preparation Phase | Mock Type | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Month 1–2 | Sectional Mocks | 1–2 per week |
| Month 3–4 | Full-Length Mocks | 2 per week |
| Last Month | Full-Length + Revision | 3–4 per week |
CUET Preparation: How Should You Plan Your Daily Study Time?
For effective CUET UG Preparation, you should focus on a proper study based timetable. With less available months and multiple sections to manage, as per previous year candidates, the daily study time should be of 5-6 hours to get better score.
CUET UG Daily Time-Table (5–6 Hours Plan)
| Time Slot | Activity | What to Focus On | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7:00 – 8:00 AM | Concept Study (Domain Subject) | NCERT theory, examples, formulas | Build conceptual clarity |
| 8:00 – 8:15 AM | Break | Light refresh | Prevent burden |
| 8:15 – 9:00 AM | Topic-wise MCQs | 20–25 MCQs from studied topic | Apply concepts |
| 9:00 – 9:45 AM | Language Practice | Reading comprehension, grammar | Improve speed & accuracy |
| 9:45 – 10:00 AM | Break | — | Maintain focus |
| 10:00 – 10:45 AM | General Test Prep | Arithmetic, reasoning, GK | Scoring buffer |
| 10:45 – 11:30 AM | Revision | Short notes, formulas, error log | Retention & recall |
| Night (20–30 mins) | Light Review | Current affairs / weak areas | Continuity |
CUET UG 2026: Best Books for Preparation
In CUET UG, choosing the right books are important for preparation, as the exam is based on syllabus and concepts. The major focus should be on NCERT Books rather than the reference books.
Best Books for CUET UG Language Section
| Book Name | Author / Publisher | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| NCERT English (Class 11 & 12) | NCERT | Core comprehension & vocabulary base |
| Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis | Vocabulary building |
| High School English Grammar & Composition | Wren & Martin | Grammar fundamentals |
| Objective General English | S.P. Bakshi | MCQ-based practice |
| Reading Comprehension Practice Sets | Arihant / Oswaal | Speed & accuracy in RCs |
Best Books for CUET UG Domain Subjects
| Subject | Book Name | Author / Publisher | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physics | NCERT Class 11 & 12 | NCERT | Concept foundation |
| Physics | Objective Physics | D.C. Pandey | Numericals & MCQs |
| Chemistry | NCERT Class 11 & 12 | NCERT | Theory & reactions |
| Chemistry | Objective Chemistry | R.K. Gupta | Practice |
| Biology | NCERT Class 11 & 12 | NCERT | Direct fact-based prep |
| Biology | Trueman’s Biology | Trueman | Concept reinforcement |
Best Books for Commerce & Arts Stream
| Subject | Book Name | Author / Publisher | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accountancy | NCERT Class 11 & 12 | NCERT | Core concepts |
| Accountancy | Accountancy MCQs | Arihant | Practice & accuracy |
| Economics | NCERT (Macro & Micro) | NCERT | Theory & numericals |
| Economics | Indian Economy | Ramesh Singh | Concept clarity |
| History | NCERT Class 11 & 12 | NCERT | Direct question source |
| Political Science | NCERT Class 11 & 12 | NCERT | Concept-based prep |
Best Books for CUET UG General Test (Aptitude & GK)
| Book Name | Author / Publisher | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Aptitude | R.S. Aggarwal | Arithmetic & DI |
| Logical Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal | Reasoning concepts |
| General Knowledge | Lucent | Static GK |
| Manorama Yearbook | Mammen Mathew | Current affairs & GK |
| CUET General Test Practice Book | Arihant / Oswaal | Section-wise MCQs |
Check: CUET Important Books
CUET Previous Year Question Papers
| CUET Question Paper | Download Links |
|---|---|
| CUET Question Paper 2025 | Check Here |
| CUET Question Paper 2024 | Check Here |
| CUET Question Paper 2023 | Check Here |
| CUET Question Paper 2022 | Check Here |
| CUET Question Paper 2021 | Check Here |
*The article might have information for the previous academic years, which will be updated soon subject to the notification issued by the University/College.
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