National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) is one of the most recognized scholarship examinations in India, organized by National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). As a test designed to select the most talented students to be awarded scholarships and national gifted students, NTSE is one of the most desired opportunities by students in Class 10. From logical reasoning to abstract thinking, as well as from knowledge of subject matter to problem solving abilities, the exam puts students to the test.
Every year, lakhs of students participate in the NTSE exam to get scholarships in higher education which are provided on different levels of learning. The examination is conducted in two phases; Phase I on state level and Phase II on national level by NCERT. Thus, for improvement in this competitive exam, the candidate needs to have a fair understanding of the syllabi and should plan in a well-suited manner. This blog will help you understand what NTSE is, what resources you should read, and how you can prepare for the exam.
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NTSE Syllabus Overview
The tests cover general mental ability and subject knowledge, which are provided in the MAT and SAT sections of the NTSE syllabus. MAT on the other side measures the logical ability and problem-solving skills through topics such as puzzles, coding – decoding, series etc., SAT on the other hand is an aptitude test covering core subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Social Science and language from the Class 9 and 10 NCERT books. MAT is set to challenge learners to respond within a few seconds, while on the other hand, SAT tests students’ conceptual knowledge in various areas of learning and includes knowledge in mathematics, natural and physical sciences. It depends on levels of concentration given to it; since it combines reasoning ability and subject knowledge it is difficult but not impossible.
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Section-Wise NTSE Syllabus
Understanding the section-wise breakdown of the NTSE syllabus is crucial for effective preparation, as it helps students identify the focus areas of each section:
Mental Ability Test (MAT)
- Verbal Reasoning: Analogies, Coding-Decoding, Classification, Logical Sequence, Direction Sense, Blood Relations, Venn Diagrams, Series (Alphabet, Number, and Logical).
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Pattern Perception, Mirror Images, Water Images, Paper Folding, Figure Completion, Embedded Figures, and Cube & Dice Problems.
- Quantitative Aptitude: Number Series, Arithmetic Reasoning, Data Interpretation, Mathematical Operations.
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)
- Mathematics: Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Mensuration, Statistics, Number Systems, Coordinate Geometry
- Science: Physics (Light, Electricity, Motion), Chemistry (Acids, Periodic Table, Chemical Reactions), Biology (Reproduction, Human Systems, Ecology)
- Social Science: History (Indian Freedom Struggle, World History), Geography (Natural Resources, Climate, Maps), Civics (Constitution, Rights and Duties), Economics (Development, Money, and Banking)
- Language: Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, Sentence Structure
Best Books for NTSE Preparation
The following books collectively offer a balanced approach to understanding concepts, solving problems, and practicing for the NTSE exam:
- “Study Guide for NTSE” by Arihant Publications
This book is your one-stop-shop for MAT and SAT preparation because it offers extensive MAT and SAT topics with detailed theory, practice questions, and mock tests designed in accordance with the NTSE sample.
- “NTSE Practice Papers” by Tata McGraw Hill
Consisting of papers and mock tests of previous years, this book aims at enhancing speed and accuracy. This format also provides various solutions and the rationale behind them to enable the students to assess their overall performance and areas of weakness.
- “Mathematics for NTSE” by R.S. Aggarwal
This book enhances the mathematical understanding needed for SAT. It contains extensive Algebra, Geometry and Trigonometry studies with numerous problems to solve as recommended by NTSE.
- NCERT Textbooks for Class 9 and 10
These are the most reliable for SAT preparation since most of the NTSE questions are drawn from NCERT materials. These books are a valuable resource for students due to the clear explanations and concept-oriented chapters in Science, Mathematics, and Social Science.
NTSE Preparation Tips
- Understand the Syllabus: Firstly, you should go through the NTSE syllabus and recognize the strong and weak subject areas you have.
- Time Management: Divide the section into separate slots and adhere to the established plan.
- Practice Regularly: Use sample papers from previous years and take mock tests to help develop accurate and swift work.
- Focus on Core Concepts: Focus more on the NCERT textbooks since most of the questions given in the SAT are taken from these.
- Utilize Online Resources: Check video tutorials, practice apps, and NTSE Exam Syllabus PDF downloads for increased preparedness.
Conclusion
The NTSE is one of the esteemed scholastic arenas that provide scholarships and national level recognition for young talents. Therefore, to excel in this exam, the syllabus must be understood well, prepared strategically and one must have the appropriate resources. This involves focusing on both the MAT and the SAT, employing recommended books, and following proper preparation techniques.
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FAQs
The NTSE exam has two main sections: The self-developed tests include Mental Ability Test (MAT), Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). MAT is a test of reasoning and problem solving while the SAT is a test of knowledge in subjects such as Mathematics, Science and Social Sciences.
NTSE syllabus is derived from Class IX and X NCERT syllabi and can thus be taken by students of any education board.
Some of the important areas comprise of MAT– logical reasoning, puzzles and series, SAT– Algebra, Geometry Physics & Indian History. Thus, students should focus on the areas of high weight because this will prepare them should they be tested on any part of those areas.
Students can download the NTSE Exam Syllabus PDF from the official NCERT website or refer to reliable NTSE preparation guides for a detailed syllabus.
I’m Harsh Chauhan, an English literature student at Delhi University. I define myself as a keen novice. Learning is something which I always cherish and look forward to which is why I carry a huge interest in the field of editorial and content creation.
