How to Crack NEET PG?

Are you a medical graduate aiming to pursue a postgraduate degree in India? Then the NEET PG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test – Post Graduate) is your gateway to entering the world of MD/MS/Diploma programs in government and private medical colleges.

However, with more than 1.5 lakh aspirants competing for a limited number of seats, cracking NEET PG is challenging but achievable—if approached with the right mindset, resources, and strategy.

This in-depth article (3000+ words) will provide everything you need to crack NEET PG in your first attempt, from preparation timelines, booklists, and subject-wise strategies to revision tips, mock tests, and time management—all in simple English.

What is NEET PG?

NEET PG is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE). It is the only exam for admission into MD, MS, and PG Diploma courses in India.

Key Points:

• Conducted by: NBE
• Mode: Online (Computer Based Test)
• Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Total Questions: 200 MCQs
• Marking: +4 for correct, -1 for wrong answer
• Frequency: Once a year

NEET PG 2025: Exam Pattern & Important Dates

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility)

• Must possess MBBS degree from a recognized university.
• Must have completed or be completing a one-year internship by the cutoff date.
• Must be registered with MCI/State Medical Council.

How to Start Preparation (Step-by-Step Plan)

Step 1: Know the Syllabus

The NEET PG syllabus includes:

• Pre-clinical Subjects: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry
• Para-clinical Subjects: Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Forensic Medicine
• Clinical Subjects: Medicine, Surgery, ENT, Ophthalmology, OBG, Pediatrics, Dermatology, Psychiatry, etc.

Step 2: Create a Study Plan

Plan at least 8–12 months in advance. Make a schedule that covers:

• Daily topics
• Weekly revisions
• Monthly mock tests

Step 3: Choose the Right Resources

Use concise and high-yield resources. Avoid switching books frequently.

Step 4: Start with Basics

Cover first-year subjects like Anatomy and Physiology before jumping into clinicals.

NEET PG Preparation Strategy (Month-by-Month Guide)

Best Books & Online Resources

📚 Books:

• Anatomy: Vishram Singh, ACROSS
• Physiology: Sembulingam
• Pathology: Robbins (Essentials), Devesh Mishra Notes
• Pharmacology: Gobind Rai Garg
• Medicine: Harrison (selected topics), Deepak Marwah
• Surgery: SRB, Rajamahendran
• OBG: Sakshi Arora
• PSM: Vivek Jain

🌐 Online Resources:

• PrepLadder
• Marrow
• eGurukul
• Dr. Bhatia Coaching App
• YouTube channels: Dr. Najeeb Lectures, Conceptual Medicine, MIB

Subject-Wise Preparation Tips

Anatomy

• Focus on diagrams and nerve supply
• High-yield: Brachial Plexus, Cranial Nerves

Pathology

• Concentrate on neoplasia, inflammation, and hematology
• Make flowcharts for classification

Pharmacology

• Remember drug classifications and side effects
• Use mnemonics to retain

Medicine

• Clinical scenarios are important
• High-yield: Cardiology, Neurology, Endocrinology

Surgery

• Concepts of trauma, hernia, thyroid surgery
• Practice clinical case-based questions

PSM

• Facts, dates, and programs matter
• Repeated questions from immunization and biostatistics

How to Revise Effectively

• Plan for 3 full revisions before the exam.
• First Revision: 45–50 days
• Second: 25–30 days
• Final: 10–15 days

Use short notes, flashcards, and one-liners. Do daily 100 MCQ practice from your weak areas.

How to Use Mock Tests the Right Way

• Start mocks by Month 5 or 6.
• Attempt topic-wise and subject-wise tests initially.
• In the last 2 months, switch to full-length mocks.

Tips:

• Review wrong answers thoroughly.
• Track progress weekly.
• Avoid guesswork – only answer if you are 80% sure.

Managing Internship + NEET PG Prep

• Use clinical postings to revise related topics.
• Carry short notes during duty hours.
• Use weekends for mocks and revisions.
• Record voice notes for quick listening while commuting.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

❌ Don’t use too many books/resources
❌ Don’t skip tough subjects (e.g., Micro, Biochem)
❌ Don’t compare your preparation pace with others
❌ Don’t delay mock tests till the end
❌ Don’t burn out—take rest days

Daily Routine of Toppers

Time Management & Mental Health

• Use the Pomodoro technique: 50 min study + 10 min break
• Eat healthy, stay hydrated
• Practice mindfulness meditation
• Limit social media distractions using apps like Forest or FocusMe

Final Month Strategy

• Don’t pick new books
• Revise high-yield topics like:
  • Recent guidelines (e.g., COVID-19 updates)
  • Image-based questions
  • Frequently repeated MCQs
• Give 1 full mock every day
• Rest well the day before the exam

FAQs

Q1: Can I crack NEET PG in the first attempt?

Yes! Many toppers do it every year with 8–12 months of focused preparation.

Q2: Is coaching necessary?

Not mandatory. You can crack it with self-study + online resources.

Q3: How many hours should I study?

Start with 6–7 hours daily. Increase to 10–12 hours closer to exam.

Q4: How many questions to attempt?

Aim for 180+ questions if your accuracy is good. Don’t blindly attempt all 200.

Final Thoughts

Cracking NEET PG is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes commitment, smart strategy, and belief in your ability. Use this guide as your roadmap and stay consistent.

Remember: “Success doesn’t come from what you do occasionally, it comes from what you do consistently.”

You’ve got this! 💪