Never compromise on revision to learn something new, says PrepLadder alumni Dr. Athira (NEET PG Rank 4)

PrepLadder congratulates Dr. Athira Pramod on securing All India Rank 4 in NEET PG exam. We wish her all the best for her career and future ahead. In this exclusive interview with PrepLadder, she shares the plan that worked for her. Use these tips to get an amazing Rank in NEET PG.

Hello, please tell us something about yourself.

Dr. Athira Pramod from MVJ Medical College Bangalore and I secured rank 4 in NEET PG 2017.

What do you think is the correct approach to study for NEET PG? Only MCQ's or Theory+MCQ's?

I think a PG aspirant should follow a holistic approach towards studying. A strong foundation in theory is a necessary prerequisite. I used to study theory and then solve the related MCQs. Solving only MCQs will not give a proper orientation.

When should the preparation ideally be started?

I joined Kottayam alumni association in April after finishing my internship. I think a consistent effort for around 6-8 months is definitely required. It's wise to develop a strong base in theory during MBBS years and to build upon that knowledge during PG preparation.

Please list the books you studied for each subject.

The notes from my KMCAA classes were my Bible during my preparation. I used the standard books like Robbins Harrison and Park for referring important and confusing topics. The mcq books I used were to supplement my knowledge and to solve questions. Anatomy: Arivu Selvan sir’s notes, Aravind Arora Physiology: Sarita mam's notes and Aravind Arora Biochemistry: Sreekumar sir's notes and rebecca James book Pathology: Robbins, Devesh Mishra and class notes Pharmacology: Dr Sunil sirs notes Microbiology: Apurba Shastri and Anantnarayan Forensic Medicine: Dr GK Pillai sir's notes Ophthalmology: Dr Sunil sir's notes, Ruchi Rai ENT: Dr Shibhu sir's notes and book PSM: Dr Binu Areekal sir's notes and Vivek Jain Medicine: Dr Harikrishnan sir and Dr Praveen sir's notes Surgery: Dr PT Thomas sir's notes and Pritesh Singh book OBG: Dr Ajayakrishna sir's notes plus brain trainer by Dr Revathi Rathan Ortho: Dr Apurba Mehra odd notes and book Radio: Sumer Sethi Peads: Deepak Marwah Anesthesia: Dr Baburaj sir's notes And all other minor subjects from across. Make it a point to look at important images from standard books while doing a topic.

Have you attempted PGMEE previously? If yes, what did you do different this year that lead to your success?

This was my first serious attempt. Since I was doing my house surgency last year I could not prepare properly because of lack of time.

How big is the role of practice and revision while preparing for NEET PG and how much time should be dedicated for it?

Revision is the key to success I feel. At least give one and a half month for revision. Two rounds of revision are optimum.

Did PrepLadder play a part in your success? If yes, how?

Yes, definitely. I used to always solve the daily quizzes of PrepLadder and that helped me answer a variety of questions. I solved the subject wise tests after finishing every subject. I also gave the very helpful PrepLadder NBE based NEET exam.

Did you use a time table/study plan to keep your preparation on track?

I always made a plan before starting a subject and tried sticking to it. It's better to make a short term timetable which is easier to follow. I used to study for 6 to 8 hours initially and gradually increased the time towards the exams.

Were you a topper or a mediocre student during MBBS?

I was a topper of my batch.

List the most difficult and easiest subjects for you.

Most difficult was Ophthalmology, Anatomy and Biochemistry. I found Pathology and Medicine easy as these were my favorite subjects during UG.

One mistake that you believe everyone must avoid while preparing for NEET PG.

Always give adequate time for revision. The mantra is to study how much ever you can revise. Never compromise on revision to learn something new during the last one month.

Some last tips for our readers preparing for NEET PG?

Be familiar with all the important topics and solve MCQs regularly. Be consistent and confident. If you have the dedication towards achieving your dream you will surely succeed. All the best!!!