Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) is conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) for teaching positions from classes 1 to 8. CBSE includes Central Government Schools such as Kendriya Vidyalaya, Central Tibetan Schools, and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya along with schools under the administrative control of Union Territories. CTET exams are conducted twice a year. The CBSE releases notification on its website and newspapers before the exams. It is important that you stay updated to avoid last-minute panic and stress.
If you want a career in teaching, you must take the CTET exam. The teaching position in a CBSE school has many perks. However, it is a very competitive exam and difficult to crack in the first attempt. To start with, you need to plan an effective preparation strategy. It is advisable for you to start preparing and planning at least a year in advance. It will give you confidence and help secure good marks in the CTET exam.
Here are some useful tips to crack the CTET exam:
1. Familiarize Yourself with the Pattern
There are two sets of papers in the CTET exam: Paper I and Paper II. Paper I is for those who want to teach class 1 to Class V. Paper II is for those who want to teach class VI to class VIII. Candidates who want to teach at both levels will have to take both the papers. Each paper contains questions from 5 subjects, and the candidate will be given two and a half hours to complete the test. There is no negative marking.
2. Familiarize Yourself with the Syllabus
The CBSE puts up a detailed syllabus of the CTET exam on its website. Read and understand it carefully. Compare the syllabus with the previous year's question papers to understand the weightage carried by each of the topics.
3. Understand the Question Format
The CBSE publishes a detailed note on how the questions appearing in the CTET exam will be designed and structured. Read and ensure that you understand each point clearly.
4. Take CTET Mock Tests
This is one of the key tips on how to prepare for CTET exams. It is highly recommended that you take the online mock tests at regular intervals to understand your strengths and weaknesses. Taking a test is the best way to judge your mastery in a subject. It will also help you work on managing time during the actual exam. The CTET consists of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). You are expected to answer one question in one minute. The only way to increase your speed is through practice. There are some theoretical questions too. You must aim to attempt all questions within the given time, as there is no negative marking. For a clearer idea, head to Fair and Lovely Career Foundation's website which has a test section full of such practice tests that are sure to help with your preparation.
5. Prepare a Schedule
Make a detailed schedule to cover all the subjects. Take into account the time needed for taking mock tests and doing revisions. Break up difficult subjects into sections and topics to avoid getting overwhelmed. Be disciplined and stick to your schedule. Ensure that it also has sufficient time for you to take breaks and refresh your mind. It is important to not get overwhelmed during your preparation.
