Want to know the secret of topping JEE Main and JEE Advanced? Meet Mridul Agarwal, who not only scored a perfect 300/300 in JEE Main but also achieved an unprecedented 348/360 in JEE Advanced, setting a new record in 2021. His story isn’t just about genius-level intelligence, but about smart planning, consistent effort, and staying focused on the goal.
If you’re dreaming of acing JEE, Mridul’s journey offers a roadmap. From balancing school and coaching to using every moment of the lockdown for focused preparation, his approach can guide you to success. His journey proves that with dedication, discipline, and the right strategies, any student can achieve their JEE dreams. Ready to learn how? Keep reading to discover the study techniques and mindset that helped Mridul Agarwal become a national topper.
Mridul Agarwal’s JEE Scores
Mridul Agarwal’s performance in both JEE Main and JEE Advanced 2021 sets an outstanding benchmark. Let’s first look at his JEE Main scores, followed by his achievement in JEE Advanced.
- JEE Advanced 2021: Mridul’s performance in JEE Advanced was equally remarkable. He scored 348 marks out of 360, achieving an impressive 96.66%. His score remains the highest ever in the history of the JEE Advanced exam. The achievement placed him in the top 1 position nationally, further solidifying his position as a top contender for IITs.
- JEE Main 2021 (March Session): Mridul scored a perfect 300/300, achieving a 100 percentile in all three subjects—Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. His score of 300 in JEE Main is the highest possible, making him the All India Rank (AIR) 1 in the March session of JEE Main.
- JEE Main 2021 (February Session): In the February session, he scored a near-perfect score of 99.9 percentile, further showcasing his consistency and determination.
Significance of His Scores in the Context of JEE Exams
Mridul’s scores in both JEE Main and JEE Advanced are significant for a variety of reasons.
JEE Main is a crucial entrance test for admission to many engineering colleges, including the prestigious NITs and IIITs. Scoring a perfect 300 marks is a feat few can achieve, and Mridul did this not once but twice, securing a perfect 100 percentile in both sessions.
JEE Advanced is the final gateway to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), where only the best students are admitted. Mridul’s score of 348 out of 360 in JEE Advanced is an unprecedented milestone, beating the previous highest-ever score of 352/396 by Chirag Falor in 2020.
These scores highlight Mridul’s outstanding academic abilities and put him at the top of the competitive ladder for engineering aspirants in India.
Mridul Agarwal’s JEE Preparation Strategy
Mridul’s preparation for JEE was an intense and long-term journey, spanning over four years. It was his commitment, smart work, and consistency that led to his extraordinary success. His preparation journey began in class 9, where he joined Allen Institute in Jaipur. Mridul decided early on to focus on JEE preparation and worked hard throughout the years, constantly improving himself with each exam.
Duration of Preparation (4 Years at ALLEN)
Mridul started his formal coaching for JEE in class 9, enrolling at Allen Institute. This decision was pivotal, as it gave him an early foundation in competitive exam preparation. By the time he reached class 12, he had already spent four years learning from the best faculty and preparing with the most effective study materials.
His journey wasn’t just about attending classes; it involved a dedicated focus on mastering every topic and refining his problem-solving skills. This foundation allowed him to develop a deep understanding of the concepts, which proved crucial in his success.
Daily Study Routine (6 to 8 Hours of Self-Study)
One of the key factors in Mridul’s success was his disciplined study routine. On average, he spent 6 to 8 hours daily on self-study. This included revising concepts, solving problems, and taking mock tests. His study routine was structured but flexible enough to ensure he stayed focused without getting burnt out. He didn’t rely on a rigid timetable but instead focused on setting daily goals and meeting them.
During the lockdown, Mridul’s schedule became even more intense as he utilized the extra time to complete topics and take practice tests.
Role of Coaching Institutes in His Preparation
Coaching institutes, especially ALLEN, played a crucial role in Mridul’s preparation. While he had his own methods and strategies, the guidance he received from experienced faculty at ALLEN gave him the necessary push.
One of the most important lessons Mridul learned from his coaching was the significance of setting targets. He regularly set daily, weekly, and monthly goals for himself. This helped him stay focused and track his progress. His ability to achieve these small milestones consistently is what eventually led him to the top of the JEE rank list.
Balancing School Studies and JEE Preparation
Despite his coaching commitment, Mridul never neglected his school studies. He continued to attend school and complete assignments on time. His ability to balance school and JEE preparation effectively is an essential lesson for students facing similar challenges. By utilizing his school environment to stay organized, he ensured he was well-prepared for both board exams and competitive exams.
Study Techniques and Tips for JEE Aspirants
Mridul’s study techniques were focused on understanding concepts rather than memorizing information. This approach was crucial, as JEE requires students to apply knowledge to solve complex problems.
- Understanding Concepts: Mridul stressed the importance of mastering the fundamentals before moving on to advanced topics. He studied from NCERT textbooks initially and made sure that his foundation in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics was solid.
- Active Revision: He regularly revisited topics to keep them fresh in his mind. Revising regularly helped him retain information and perform well during exams.
- Solving Problems: He solved numerous problems from various sources, including coaching materials and previous year question papers. This helped him improve his problem-solving speed and accuracy.
Time Management and Scheduling
For Mridul, time management was crucial. He allotted specific time slots for each subject and made sure to follow his schedule strictly. Even during the lockdown, he maintained this routine, which helped him stay on track despite the distractions.
Focus on Understanding Concepts Rather Than Rote Learning
Mridul strongly believed in understanding the concepts thoroughly. He avoided rote learning and instead focused on grasping the underlying principles. This approach allowed him to apply his knowledge creatively, which is crucial for competitive exams like JEE.
Regular Revision and Practice
He revised each subject multiple times and took regular mock tests. Mridul’s routine involved solving previous year’s papers, mock exams from the NTA app, and taking time to reflect on his mistakes. Regular practice helped him stay sharp and enhance his accuracy.
Handling Stress and Maintaining a Positive Mindset
Mridul acknowledged the pressure that comes with JEE preparation. He advised students to take breaks, stay positive, and not get overwhelmed. He also recommended spending time with family and friends to de-stress. He personally used to take breaks to go on trips and engage in activities that relaxed his mind.
Role of Online Classes in Mridul Agarwal’s JEE Journey
The COVID-19 pandemic introduced a new way of learning for Mridul—online classes. When schools and coaching institutes shifted to online learning during the lockdown, Mridul adapted seamlessly. He utilized the extra time effectively, attending ALLEN’s online classes while also interacting with faculty to clear his doubts.
Interaction with Faculty and Clearing Doubts Online
One of the key advantages of online learning was the ability to interact with experienced teachers. Mridul took full advantage of this by regularly engaging with his faculty members and seeking clarification on complex topics. This proactive approach helped him stay on top of his preparation even during the lockdown.
Benefits and Challenges of Online Learning
While online learning was beneficial in many ways, it also posed challenges. The lack of in-person interaction was something Mridul had to overcome, but his strong self-motivation helped him stay focused. He also had to be disciplined in managing his time effectively since there were fewer external schedules.
Mridul Agarwal’s Extracurricular Achievements
While Mridul Agarwal is widely celebrated for his exceptional academic achievements in JEE, his success story goes beyond just exams. His involvement in extracurricular activities, particularly in academic competitions and Olympiads, significantly contributed to his development and helped him refine critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and intellectual curiosity. These extracurricular achievements played an essential role in shaping his holistic approach to learning, making him well-prepared for competitive exams like JEE.
1) KVPY AIR-1
One of Mridul’s most notable extracurricular achievements was securing All India Rank 1 (AIR-1) in the Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) program. KVPY is a highly prestigious fellowship that recognizes and supports bright students who wish to pursue research careers in science.
2) NTSE Scholar
In addition to KVPY, Mridul was also an NTSE (National Talent Search Examination) scholar. The NTSE is one of the most competitive exams for school students, aiming to identify talented individuals who can excel in scientific research and other intellectual fields. Being an NTSE scholar is a testament to Mridul’s intellectual prowess and ability to excel in a wide range of subjects beyond just the science and math focus of JEE.
3) Olympiad Achievements
Mridul’s passion for science and academic excellence was further demonstrated by his remarkable achievements in various Olympiad competitions. He was selected for the OCSC (Olympiad Camp for Science Students) in multiple disciplines, including:
- IJSO (International Junior Science Olympiad): Mridul was selected for the OCSC camp for IJSO in class 9, which is a prestigious event for young students passionate about science and research.
- Physics Olympiad: In both class 11 and 12, Mridul was selected for the OCSC camp for Physics, one of the most respected competitions for aspiring physicists.
- Astronomy Olympiad: Mridul also excelled in the Astronomy Olympiad, being selected for the OCSC camp in class 12, showcasing his interest in astrophysics and his problem-solving skills.
These Olympiad selections highlight not only his strong grasp of scientific concepts but also his commitment to extending his knowledge beyond the traditional classroom setting.
Balancing Extracurriculars with JEE Preparation
Despite the time demands of JEE preparation, Mridul successfully balanced his participation in these extracurricular activities with his intense study schedule. His ability to manage multiple priorities, while staying committed to academic excellence, shows his time-management skills and dedication. These experiences outside the classroom helped him develop a well-rounded skill set, from logical reasoning to critical thinking, all of which are essential in excelling in competitive exams like JEE.
Mridul Agarwal’s Advice for Aspiring Students
Mridul Agarwal’s success in JEE Main and JEE Advanced 2021 was not only the result of his intellect but also his approach to preparation, discipline, and mindset. His journey to the top provides valuable lessons for every student aiming to crack JEE and pursue their dreams of joining prestigious institutions like IIT. Mridul has shared several pieces of advice for aspiring students, focusing on self-belief, creating a personalized strategy, consistency, handling failures, and managing time effectively.
1) Importance of Faith in Oneself and Mentors
One of the most important pieces of advice Mridul gives is to believe in yourself. The journey to JEE success is filled with challenges and setbacks, and self-doubt is common. However, having confidence in your abilities is crucial. Mridul emphasizes that self-belief can help students stay focused and motivated, even when things get tough. He also highlights the importance of mentorship in the preparation process.Â
Having supportive mentors, such as teachers and parents, can provide guidance, offer emotional support, and motivate you during difficult times. Mridul was fortunate to have strong mentorship from his parents and teachers, who were instrumental in helping him stay on track and maintain a positive mindset throughout his preparation.
2) Developing a Personalized Strategy and Sticking to It
Mridul advises students to develop a personalized study plan tailored to their unique strengths and weaknesses. JEE preparation is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and each student learns differently. He did not rely on a fixed timetable but focused on setting daily and weekly goals based on his progress. This flexibility allowed him to spend more time on challenging topics while ensuring steady progress across all subjects. The key is to create a study strategy that works for you, rather than blindly following someone else’s plan.
Once a strategy is in place, it is essential to stick to it. Mridul stresses that consistency is critical. JEE preparation requires steady effort over time, and consistency in following a plan helps build momentum. While flexibility is important, it’s crucial to ensure that your study plan remains on track, and that goals are met regularly. He advises students to remain disciplined and focus on gradual progress rather than trying to rush through topics.
3) Consistency and Hard Work as Key Factors for Success
In Mridul’s view, consistency and hard work are the cornerstones of JEE preparation. Achieving top results in such a competitive exam is not about studying for long hours on certain days and neglecting others. It’s about showing up every day, putting in steady effort, and making progress, no matter how small. Mridul followed a disciplined routine, dedicating 6 to 8 hours daily to study and ensuring consistent revision and practice.
He advises students to avoid looking for shortcuts or relying solely on memorization. JEE requires a deep understanding of concepts, and this understanding comes from consistent practice and regular revision. Mridul also stresses that it’s not just about working hard; it’s about working smart. Effective time management, focused study sessions, and identifying weak areas for improvement are all part of working smart.
4) Learning from Failures and Setbacks
Mridul acknowledges that setbacks and failures are inevitable during the preparation process. Whether it’s a poor performance in a mock test or struggling with a difficult topic, students may face moments of frustration. Mridul encourages students to learn from their mistakes. Instead of being discouraged, he suggests that students analyze their errors and take corrective action. Every failure presents an opportunity for growth and improvement.
Mridul believes that setbacks are a natural part of the journey and should not define a student’s ability to succeed. He personally faced challenges but used them as stepping stones to build his resilience and improve his skills. His message to aspiring students is clear: perseverance is key. No matter how difficult the path may seem, keep pushing forward, learn from mistakes, and never give up.
5) Time Management and Balancing Academics with Mental Well-being
Effective time management is crucial for JEE preparation. Mridul recommends creating a balanced schedule that includes study time, revision, and mock tests, but also allows for relaxation and self-care. Overloading yourself with study sessions can lead to burnout and stress. He stresses that it’s essential to take breaks and ensure mental well-being is not neglected during the preparation phase.
Mridul also emphasizes the importance of balancing academic commitments with downtime to recharge. He suggests spending time with family and friends, engaging in hobbies, or even taking short trips to destress. Managing stress is vital to maintaining focus and avoiding burnout, and finding time for relaxation can improve overall performance in the long run.
Conclusion
Mridul Agarwal’s journey to becoming the JEE Main and JEE Advanced 2021 topper is a testament to the power of dedication, strategic planning, and consistent effort. His perfect scores and record-breaking achievement are not the result of shortcuts, but a culmination of years of hard work, smart study techniques, and a positive mindset. For every student aspiring to crack JEE, Mridul’s story offers valuable insights into how to stay focused, manage time effectively, and stay motivated through the toughest phases of preparation.
By following his approach of setting clear goals, regularly revising concepts, and practicing relentlessly, you can also transform your JEE dreams into reality. Remember, success is not just about intelligence, but about persistence, determination, and learning from every step of the journey. So, take inspiration from Mridul, work hard, stay consistent, and believe in yourself. With the right mindset and approach, you too can achieve your goals and excel in JEE.
