If you are qualifying the CTET but still not clearing the cut-off, you're not alone This is a frustrating experience to many candidates even after hours of preparation. Here are some common questions that can help you realize what you are doing wrong and how to rectify it.
Why am I not clearing the CTET cut-off despite qualifying?
Scoring 60% (the qualifying mark) does not guarantee short listing also, as there is competition or category wise cut offs in certain institutions. The problem is regularly in the sectional imbalances, ineffective time management, or over-confidence in the mock results. Missing practice of CTET previous year solved papers can also cost you sometimes.
What are the biggest mistakes candidates make during CTET preparation?
Mistake |
Impact |
Solution |
Ignoring NCERT basics |
Weak concept clarity |
Revise NCERTs thoroughly |
Not solving CTET previous year solved papers |
No understanding of question patterns |
Practice at least 5 years of PYQs |
Choosing the wrong resources |
Wastes time and energy |
Stick to reliable and updated CTET books |
Focusing only on Paper 1/Paper 2 |
Poor subject-wise balance |
Divide time wisely between both |
No revision plan |
Forgetting key facts during the exam |
Create weekly revision cycles |
How important are CTET previous year solved papers?
Extremely important. These papers will tell the trend of questions, difficulty of questions and weightage of topics. Those candidates who frequently use CTET previous year solved papers are less prone to mistakes and have adequate time management skills in the actual exam.
Can using the best book for CTET paper 1 guarantee success?
Not exactly. Although you may possess the best book CTET paper 1, you have to use it wisely. Most of the aspirants read books and do not revise or practice the concepts in mock tests. It is the proper utilization of CTET books and self-analysis that counts.
Read More: CTET or State TET: Which One Should You Prepare For?
What areas should I focus on to finally clear the CTET cut-off?
Here’s what successful candidates consistently get right:
Area |
Focus Strategy |
Child Development & Pedagogy |
Understand concepts, don’t mug up |
Language 1 & 2 |
Practice comprehension and grammar daily |
Mathematics/Science/Social Science |
Apply concepts to practical questions |
Time Management |
Use timers during mock tests |
Revision |
Allocate the last 30 days only to revision and mocks |
Why does my score stay the same in every attempt?
You are probably making the same errors. The problem of reattempting mock tests without CTET previous year solved papers without analyzing your mistakes, using old CTET books is very widespread. Also, failure to update your strategy after every attempt leaves your score at stagnation.
Final Thoughts
Passing CTET does not merely require studying a lot, but studying in a smarter way. And in case you have qualified and are unable to crack the cut-off, then it is high time you reviewed your errors, revised your study schedule, and practiced mocks and their analysis.