How to Score 95+ in CUET PG 2025: Proven Toppers’ Strategies & Booklist

Home How to Score 95+ in CUET PG 2025: Proven Toppers’ Strategies & Booklist

Cracking CUET PG 2025 with a score of 95+ isn’t a myth—it’s a well-planned mission backed by strategy, discipline, and the right resources. With thousands of aspirants aiming for top central universities across India, competition is fierce. So, what sets the toppers apart from the crowd? It’s not just intelligence—it’s smart study planning, consistent revision, accurate time management, and a resourceful approach. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into toppers’ strategies, their go-to book lists, practical tips, and a day-wise study routine to help you hit that 95+ mark.

Let’s break it down step by step to give you a structured roadmap to success.


Understanding CUET PG 2025 Exam Pattern

Overview of CUET PG Structure

Before jumping into preparation mode, it’s crucial to understand the exam you’re aiming for. THE CUET PG (Common University Entrance Test for Postgraduate Programs) is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). This exam is your gateway to some of the most prestigious central universities in India, including JNU, BHU, DU, and more.

CUET PG 2025 is expected to follow a similar pattern as previous years, with the paper comprising:

  • 100 multiple choice questions (MCQs)
  • Total Marks: 400
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Marking Scheme: +4 for each correct answer, -1 for each wrong

The paper is typically divided into two parts:

  • Part A: General section (including English language, comprehension, reasoning, numerical ability, and general awareness)
  • Part B: Domain-specific knowledge questions (based on the subject applied for)

Knowing the structure helps you plan your study hours efficiently and allocate time to each section based on your strengths and weaknesses.


Importance of Understanding the Marking Scheme

The marking scheme in CUET PG can either make or break your score. With negative marking in place, guesswork can be dangerous. This is why many toppers emphasize the significance of accuracy over attempting all questions.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

  • Focus on accuracy: Avoid blind guessing.
  • Attempt only if 70–80% sure.
  • Use elimination technique: Narrow down to two options before attempting.
  • Prioritize high-confidence questions first: This builds your score and confidence early in the exam.

When you practice mocks, simulate this marking strategy. It’s a game-changer!


Setting Clear Goals and a Personalized Study Plan

Why Goal Setting Matters

Goal setting in exam preparation is like having a GPS for a road trip—you know your destination, and the route becomes clearer. Most CUET PG toppers say they started their preparation with a clear score target and a weekly milestone.

Having SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) not only keeps you motivated but also helps track your progress.

Here’s how to get started:

  • Set monthly targets: E.g., Complete General Awareness and Part A topics in 30 days.
  • Have weekly checkpoints: Track chapters completed, mock test scores, revision.
  • Maintain a goal journal or spreadsheet: Update it daily or weekly to see how far you’ve come.

This method isn’t just about working hard—it’s about working smart.


Creating a Weekly and Monthly Timetable

Creating a custom timetable makes your preparation manageable and efficient. Toppers often divide their time into three key zones:

  1. Learning Zone (first 30-45 days): Focus on understanding concepts and covering the syllabus.
  2. Practice Zone (next 20-30 days): Focus on solving MCQs and previous year papers.
  3. Revision Zone (last 30-40 days): Revise notes, take mock tests, work on weak areas.

Sample Weekly Plan:

DayMorningAfternoonEvening
MondayDomain Subject 1General AwarenessLogical Reasoning
TuesdayDomain Subject 2Reading ComprehensionMock Test + Review
WednesdayRevision (Mon/Tue)Current AffairsPYQ Solving
ThursdayDomain Subject 3Numerical AptitudeTime Management Drill
FridayDomain Subject 4Reasoning PracticeReview Mock Mistakes
SaturdayFull-Length MockError AnalysisLight Revision
SundayRest or Recap DayDoubt ClearingLight Reading

Adapt this to your comfort, but don’t skip consistency. A personalized study plan that suits your learning style is what separates toppers from average scorers.


Toppers’ Strategies to Score 95+ in CUET PG

Smart Study Techniques by Toppers

Want to crack CUET PG like a pro? Mimic what toppers do. Here’s what works:

  • Micro-targeting topics: Instead of cramming everything, toppers focus on high-weightage chapters first.
  • Daily topic review: 30 mins of revision daily helps reinforce memory.
  • Spaced Repetition Technique: Revisit topics every few days to make them stick.
  • Active Recall: Instead of passive reading, test yourself after every chapter.
  • Teach-back method: Teach the topic to a friend or yourself. If you can teach it, you know it!

These aren’t hacks—they’re battle-tested techniques that get real results.


Revision and Mock Test Routine

Toppers swear by consistent mock test practice. Here’s how they approach it:

  • Start with sectional mocks in the first month.
  • Move to full-length mocks after 30-40% syllabus is covered.
  • Maintain a Mock Test Log: Record your scores, mistakes, and topics for revision.
  • Use error notebooks: Write down mistakes and revisit them weekly.
  • Schedule weekly revision days: No new topics—just reinforcing what you’ve studied.

Mock tests help improve speed, accuracy, and familiarity with the exam environment. Don’t skip them if you’re aiming for 95+.

Best Books for CUET PG 2025 Preparation

Subject-Wise Booklist Recommended by Toppers

Books are your best friends during preparation, but choosing the right ones is key. Toppers don’t use 10 books for one subject—they use one or two well-structured ones and revise them thoroughly. Here’s a topper-approved subject-wise list:

For Political Science:

  • Indian Government and Politics by B.L. Fadia
  • Political Theory by O.P. Gauba
  • Introduction to Political Theory by Rajeev Bhargava

For Economics:

  • Microeconomics by Pindyck & Rubinfeld
  • Macroeconomics by Dornbusch and Fischer
  • Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh

For English Literature:

  • History of English Literature by Edward Albert
  • Literary Criticism and Theory by M.S. Nagarajan
  • Objective English by SP Bakshi

For General Paper (Common Aptitude Test):

  • Arihant’s CUET PG Guide
  • Lucent’s General Knowledge
  • Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal

Don’t try to read everything. Stick to one standard book per subject and use online resources to fill the gaps.

Books for General Awareness and Logical Reasoning

General Awareness and Reasoning can fetch you easy marks if prepared consistently. Here’s what toppers suggest:

General Awareness:

  • Lucent General Knowledge
  • Manorama Yearbook
  • Monthly Pratiyogita Darpan

Tip: Read daily current affairs from apps like Inshorts, GKToday, or StudyIQ. Make a note of major events, appointments, sports, and government schemes.

Logical Reasoning:

  • A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
  • How to Crack Test of Reasoning by Arihant Experts

Practice is key here. Dedicate 30 minutes daily and increase to 1 hour in the final month.


Importance of Solving Previous Year Question Papers

How to Analyze Your Performance

Previous year question papers (PYQs) are pure gold. They give insight into:

  • The type and difficulty of questions
  • Pattern repetition across years
  • Important and high-weightage topics

But just solving them isn’t enough. You need to analyze them smartly.

Here’s how:

  1. Set exam-like conditions and solve the paper within the time limit.
  2. Mark your attempted answers and check them without peeking into books.
  3. Log your mistakes and classify them:
    • Conceptual errors
    • Careless mistakes
    • Time mismanagement
  4. Revisit the weak areas immediately in your notes or books.
  5. Repeat this weekly with a different year’s paper.

Toppers maintain a PYQ tracker, where they record their scores and error rate per paper. This way, they’re not just practicing—they’re evolving.

Spotting Repeated and Important Questions

If you go through CUET PG papers from the last 5 years, you’ll notice a pattern. Some concepts keep repeating—not word-for-word, but in essence. These are your high-yield areas.

Make a list of such topics for every subject. For example:

  • In Political Science: Preamble, Fundamental Rights, International Relations
  • In Economics: Inflation, Monetary Policy, GDP trends
  • In English: Literary Devices, Important Authors, Literary Ages

Spot these, master them, and revise them at least 4–5 times before the exam. These repeated topics can fetch you easy marks with minimal effort.


Time Management Skills for CUET PG 2025

Realistic Time Allocation

If you’re aiming for a top score, mastering time is just as important as mastering content. Whether it’s the preparation phase or the final exam, your clock is ticking.

During Preparation:

  • Break your day into time blocks—never exceed 1.5 hours per study session without a short break.
  • Follow the 60/40 Rule: 60% of your time on new learning, 40% on revision and testing.
  • Allocate more time to weaker sections early on.

During the Exam:

  • Aim to finish the paper 10-15 minutes early for revision.
  • Divide the 120 minutes wisely:
    • Domain Knowledge: 70 mins
    • General Section: 30 mins
    • Review: 20 mins

Toppers often take timed mock tests every Sunday to keep their pacing tight.

Avoiding Procrastination

Let’s face it—everyone struggles with procrastination. But toppers develop systems to fight it:

  • Set micro-goals: Instead of “Finish Political Science today,” write “Complete Chapter 3 MCQs in 45 mins.”
  • Use the Pomodoro Technique: 25 minutes of focused study, 5-minute break.
  • Eliminate distractions: Use apps like Forest, StayFocusd, or turn off notifications.
  • Accountability partner: Share daily goals with a friend or mentor.

Small habits compound. One day of focus saves you from a week of cramming later.


Effective Use of Online Resources

Best YouTube Channels and Websites

If used wisely, the internet is your best tutor. Toppers utilize online platforms not for binge-watching, but for concept clarity and updates.

YouTube Channels:

  • StudyIQ Education (for General Awareness and Daily Current Affairs)
  • Unacademy CUET PG (for live sessions and doubt solving)
  • WiFi Study (for Reasoning and Aptitude basics)

Websites:

  • GKToday.in (for daily quizzes and current affairs)
  • Neet World (for subject-wise coaching and guidance)
  • CUET Samarth Portal (for official updates and syllabus)

Use these platforms as supplements, not replacements for core study material.

CUET PG Telegram Groups and Discussion Forums

Telegram groups have become digital classrooms. Join groups that share:

  • Daily MCQs
  • PYQ discussions
  • Doubt solving sessions
  • Official notifications and tips

But be cautious. Avoid unnecessary chats and memes. Mute non-academic notifications and use the groups only during your designated online hours.

Some useful Telegram groups:

  • CUET PG Preparation 2025
  • CUET PG Political Science Prep
  • CUET PG Book PDF Exchange (for notes and books)

Online communities can keep your momentum high—just make sure you’re using them, not getting distracted by them.

Coaching vs Self-Study: What’s Better?

Pros and Cons of Coaching

The coaching vs. self-study debate is age-old, but the truth lies in understanding what you need. Toppers don’t blindly choose coaching—they assess their strengths, weaknesses, and study discipline.

Benefits of Coaching:

  • Structured Guidance: You follow a proven syllabus and plan.
  • Expert Faculty: Quick concept clarity, doubt resolution, and exam strategies.
  • Mock Test Series: Professional-level mocks help you simulate the real exam.
  • Peer Competition: Healthy comparison and motivation to improve.

Drawbacks of Coaching:

  • Costly: Coaching can be expensive and not always accessible.
  • One-size-fits-all: Not personalized for individual weaknesses.
  • Rigid Schedule: No flexibility in pace or topics.

In short, coaching can be helpful if you lack structure or find it hard to stay disciplined. It’s not mandatory—but can be a booster for many.

Making Self-Study Work for You

If you choose self-study, it’s absolutely possible to score 95+, provided you stick to a strict plan. Here’s what toppers suggest:

  • Make a custom timetable tailored to your own pace.
  • Use online resources smartly (YouTube, Telegram, PDFs, etc.).
  • Solve mocks regularly and analyze results deeply.
  • Join online communities for accountability and help.

Use a mix of books, YouTube lectures, and test series to simulate coaching. Self-study demands discipline but rewards you with flexibility and cost-effectiveness.


Maintaining Motivation and Mental Health

Avoiding Burnout During Preparation

Burnout is real, especially in long-term preparation. Studying 6–8 hours daily for months isn’t sustainable without breaks and balance.

Here’s how to stay on track:

  • Breaks are productive: Short breaks between study sessions help memory retention.
  • Exercise regularly: Even 20 minutes of walking boosts your energy and focus.
  • Stay hydrated and sleep well: 7–8 hours of sleep is non-negotiable for memory and mood.
  • Use downtime wisely: Watch motivational videos, light reading, or music therapy.

Toppers schedule buffer days every few weeks—no heavy study, just light review and relaxation.

Staying Positive Under Pressure

Every aspirant faces stress, self-doubt, and anxiety, especially as the exam approaches. But toppers develop emotional endurance.

Here’s how:

  • Affirmations: “I am improving daily” > “I have so much left.”
  • Mindfulness and meditation: 10 minutes a day to clear mental fog.
  • Visualizing success: Picture yourself clearing the exam and entering your dream university.
  • Avoid toxic comparisons: Focus on your progress, not someone else’s.

Most importantly, talk to someone when things feel overwhelming. It’s okay to ask for help.


Day-Wise Study Plan for the Last 60 Days

Sample Timetable for Final Preparation

The final 60 days are make-or-break. Toppers use this phase for intense revision, mock tests, and clearing remaining doubts. Here’s a realistic day-wise breakdown.

Week 1–4:

  • 60% time: Revision of all major topics
  • 30% time: Mock tests and PYQs
  • 10% time: New/leftover topics

Sample Daily Routine:

TimeTask
6:00 – 6:30 AMWake Up + Exercise
6:30 – 8:00 AMRevise Subject 1 (Notes)
8:00 – 9:00 AMBreakfast + Light Reading
9:00 – 11:00 AMMock Test (Full-length)
11:00 – 12:00 PMError Review + Note-making
1:00 – 3:00 PMSubject 2 Practice MCQs
3:00 – 4:00 PMReasoning/English section
5:00 – 6:00 PMRevision from error log
7:00 – 9:00 PMLight subject reading + rest

Repeat with variations to avoid monotony.

Balancing Revision and Practice

Don’t just read your notes—test your memory. Use flashcards, quizzes, and mind maps. For every topic you revise, solve 10–20 related MCQs to see how well you remember it.

Balance is the key:

  • Alternate subjects: Don’t revise the same one all day.
  • Use weekends: Take 2 full-length mocks back-to-back on Saturdays and Sundays.
  • Track your confidence: Rate your preparedness topic-wise and focus on low-rated areas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in CUET PG Preparation

Skipping Basics

One big mistake many aspirants make is jumping straight into MCQs or mocks without learning the fundamentals. It’s tempting—but dangerous.

Toppers focus heavily on:

  • Understanding concepts instead of rote memorization.
  • Making crisp summary notes before solving questions.
  • Revisiting NCERTs or foundational books if basics are weak.

Without a strong base, you’ll keep repeating the same errors. Slow down to speed up.

Over-Relying on One Resource

Don’t stick to just one book, one channel, or one teacher. Diversify, but don’t overdo it.

Signs of over-reliance:

  • Getting stuck when a topic isn’t well-covered
  • Confusing terms when the explanation is unclear
  • Following someone else’s notes blindly without making your own

Instead, use a mix:

  • Book for concepts
  • YouTube for quick revisions
  • Mock tests for practice
  • Telegram for doubt solving

And always customize your notes—your own version is always better than someone else’s.


Strategies for Exam Day

What to Do the Night Before

The night before your exam is not for panic or last-minute cramming. Toppers take it slow and prepare for the mental game.

Checklist for the night before:

  • Pack your admit card, ID, stationery
  • Check exam center location and timing
  • Eat a light, nutritious dinner
  • Revise formulas or flashcards—no new content
  • Sleep by 10 PM—rest matters more than revision now

Calm mind = Better performance.

Time Management During the Paper

Once inside the exam hall, your mindset matters. Here’s how toppers manage their time:

  • Start with your strongest section to build confidence.
  • Mark doubtful questions and return to them later.
  • Don’t panic on tough questions—move on and come back.
  • Use the last 10–15 minutes to check marked questions.

Remember, your score is a sum of your best attempts—not the number of questions you tried. Stay cool, focused, and aware of time.

Toppers’ Real-Life Success Stories

Lessons Learned from Previous Years’ Rankers

There’s nothing more inspiring than real success stories. Every year, hundreds of students beat the odds and score 95+ in CUET PG—and most of them weren’t geniuses, just disciplined and strategic.

Take, for example, Priya Sharma, who secured 98 percentile in CUET PG Political Science. She started prep just six months before the exam but followed a tight routine. Her secret?

  • Focused on one book per subject
  • Made a “mistake notebook” from every mock test
  • Revised her notes 4 times in the final 45 days

Then there’s Rohit Mehra, a working professional who scored 96 percentile in CUET PG Management. He studied just 3 hours a day but never missed a single mock test in the last two months.

These toppers didn’t do anything extraordinary—they did ordinary things with consistency. That’s the real formula.

How They Managed Stress and Studies

Toppers deal with the same stress as anyone else. What sets them apart is how they handle it. Most use:

  • Daily gratitude journaling
  • Digital detoxes—no social media during core study hours
  • Workout routines—from yoga to gym, to release stress
  • Time-boxing techniques to avoid burnout

They also seek mentorship, talk to peers, and follow motivational content to stay mentally resilient.

Learning from their journey can add practical value to yours. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel—just follow the paths that already work.


Expert Advice from CUET Mentors

Study Hacks That Actually Work

We’ve spoken to several CUET mentors, and their advice is gold. Here are the most recommended hacks:

  1. Follow the 80/20 rule: 80% of your score comes from 20% of the syllabus (high-weight topics).
  2. Practice reverse learning: Solve MCQs first, then read the theory to plug gaps.
  3. Weekly SWOT analysis: Write down your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats.
  4. Anchor days: Pick one day each week just for review and no new learning.
  5. Stop over-highlighting: Instead, use keywords and active recall in notes.

Consistency beats overworking. Smart beats hard when it comes to CUET PG.

Coaching Tips from Chandu Biology Classes

If you’re considering structured help, Chandu Biology Classes is a trusted name among CUET PG aspirants. Their mentorship approach combines:

  • Personalized study plans
  • Live doubt-clearing sessions
  • AI-based test analysis
  • One-on-one mentorship
  • Detailed syllabus completion roadmaps

Many toppers credit Chandu Biology Classes for turning their unstructured preparation into a focused journey. Their domain-specific material is curated by experts and regularly updated based on NTA trends.

For anyone struggling with self-discipline or concept clarity, Chandu Biology Classes can be the perfect guide to your CUET PG journey.


Final Thoughts and Motivation for Aspirants

Scoring 95+ in CUET PG 2025 is no magic—it’s mathematics. Consistency + Strategy + Right Resources = Success.

Don’t compare your journey with anyone else. Your pace is yours. Whether you’re a slow starter or a revision warrior, there’s a way to crack it. Just trust the process.

Remember:

  • Show up daily, even when you don’t feel like it.
  • Focus on quality over quantity.
  • Learn from every mistake.
  • Keep your end goal in mind: your dream university.

If others can do it, so can you.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. How early should I start preparing for CUET PG 2025?

Ideally, you should start 6–8 months before the exam. This gives you enough time for full syllabus coverage, mocks, and multiple revisions. However, many toppers have cracked it in 3–4 months with focused study plans.


2. Is it possible to crack CUET PG without coaching?

Absolutely. With the right books, online resources, and consistent mock practice, many students have succeeded without any formal coaching. Just stay disciplined and use digital tools wisely.


3. How many mock tests should I solve before the exam?

Aim for at least 25–30 full-length mocks and 10+ sectional tests. Focus on analyzing your performance after every mock and improve based on your mistakes.


4. Can CUET PG preparation be balanced with college or job?

Yes, with smart time management. Many working professionals and college students study during early mornings or late evenings and reserve weekends for full-length preparation.


5. Are NCERTs enough for CUET PG preparation?

NCERTs are excellent for building basics, especially for arts and humanities subjects. But you’ll need advanced books and practice material for in-depth understanding and exam-level MCQs.