With the rise of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) as a key gateway to top central universities in India, students of Class 12 now face a dual challenge — performing well in Board Exams while also preparing effectively for CUET. Both assessments are crucial for future academic success, and excelling in them requires a well-structured, integrated approach. 

This blog presents a detailed, professional roadmap to help students manage both preparations without compromising on either. 

Understanding the Core Differences: CUET vs Board Exams 

Before designing a study plan, it's essential to understand the fundamental differences between the two exams: 

While the syllabus overlaps significantly, the exam formats and evaluation parameters differ. A dual-focused strategy should accommodate both descriptive writing and objective answering. 

Resource Optimization: What to Study and How? 

Students must strategically select study materials that serve both purposes: 

For Board Exams: 

• NCERT textbooks 
• CBSE sample papers 
• Previous years' question papers 
• Structured revision notes 

For CUET: 

• Domain-specific MCQ books based on NCERT 
• Online CUET test platforms  
• PYQs and full-length mock tests 
• CUET General Test and Language Section practice 

Tip: Focus on conceptual learning from NCERT, followed by CUET-style MCQs for the same topics. This ensures retention and dual preparation. 

Aligning the Preparation Process 

Avoid treating CUET and Board preparation as two separate tracks. Instead, use a blended learning approach: 

• Study a chapter from your textbook thoroughly for Boards. 
• Immediately follow it up with CUET-style MCQs from that chapter. 
• Practice writing subjective answers for Boards. 
• Then test your conceptual understanding via assertion-reason or case-based MCQs for CUET. 

This approach ensures you cover both formats without doubling your effort. 

7 Smart Time Management Tips to Prepare for Boad and CUET Together 

1. Start Early and Plan Backwards 

Begin your preparation at least 6–8 months before CUET and Boards. Create a study plan that works backwards from the exam dates, ensuring you have ample time for: 

• Learning new concepts 
• Practice tests 
• Revision 

2. Follow a Daily Routine 

Establish a disciplined timetable that includes: 

• 6–7 hours of study per day (excluding school time) 
• Balanced slots for Boards and CUET preparation 
• Regular breaks to avoid burnout 

Tip: Study the same subject for both exams in a day — first for Boards (subjective) and then for CUET (objective). 

3. Use the Time Block Method

Divide your day into blocks of focused activity (e.g., 90 minutes study + 15 minutes break). Assign blocks for: 

• School assignments 
• CUET mock practice 
• Board answer writing 
• Revision 

This structure improves concentration and reduces procrastination. 

4. Leverage Overlapping Syllabus

Prioritize subjects that are common to both Boards and CUET (like Political Science, Accountancy, Physics, etc.). Use NCERT as the base material and practice: 

• Descriptive answers for Boards 
• MCQs for CUET 
  on the same topic. 

5. Set Weekly and Monthly Goals

Break your preparation into manageable weekly and monthly goals: 

• Topics to be covered 
• Number of tests to attempt 
• Revision targets 

At the end of each week, review what’s completed and where you need improvement. 

6. Use Weekends Wisely

Utilize weekends for: 

• Full-length CUET mock tests 
• Solving Board sample papers 
• Catching up on missed topics 
• Reflecting on weak areas 

This allows for deeper engagement without weekday distractions. 

7. Minimize Distractions

• Keep your phone in another room or use focus apps. 
• Avoid multitasking while studying. 
• Use apps like Forest, Notion, or Google Calendar to stay organized. 

8. Combine Active Study and Smart Revision

• Use flashcards or mind maps for revision. 
• Teach the concept to someone else — it improves recall. 
• Focus more on high-weightage topics once the syllabus is covered. 

9. Prioritize Health and Rest

• Sleep 7–8 hours daily to enhance memory and focus. 
• Take short walks or stretch between study sessions. 
• Avoid long unproductive study marathons — study smart, not endlessly. 

10. Adapt the Plan When Needed

Your schedule should be flexible. If one method isn’t working, refine it. Time management isn’t about rigidity — it’s about knowing how to use your time intentionally and efficiently. 

Quick Recap of Time Management Do’s and Don’ts 

Time management is not just about squeezing more into your day — it's about prioritizing what truly matters. With a clear structure and commitment, you can conquer both CUET and your Board exams with confidence. 

Get Professional Help with CUET Preparation 

If you're looking for a structured and expert-driven CUET preparation program, consider Drishti CUET Online Course, which offers: 

• Video lectures based on NCERT curriculum 
• CUET-specific domain subject MCQs 
• General Test and Language Test practice 
• Full-length mocks, performance tracking, and doubt sessions 
• Available in both Hindi and English mediums 

 Visit www.drishticuet.com to explore courses