The importance of CET in a student's life is overwhelming and at this time, it is natural for one to be anxious. However, do not let this anxiety lead to distress, but let it serve as a source of motivation to keep your performance high on the d-day. You need to be focussed and confident.

Here is what you need to do a day prior to the CET:

• Stop studying. Just revise a few concepts and formulae, make mental maps of important strategies that you have used during test preparation. Do not study anything new.
  
• Relax with friends or watch a movie on the day before the test.
  
• Ensure that you get a good night's sleep on the eve of the test.
  
• Be positive and confident.
  
• Ensure that you read the test rules and regulations and are aware of what can be carried into the test venue.
  
• Do not forget to carry your Admit Card, photo id proof and stationery.
  
• Ensure that you reach the test venue ahead of time. Be there early, with plenty of time to relax and get used to your surroundings.
  
• At the venue, do not discuss anything with friends. Avoid questions about what you have studied and what you haven't. Do not gossip about possible questions.
  
• Take a deep breath, meditate for some time and think that you are going to ace the CET.
  
• Keep a water bottle with you if the centre allows you to.
  
• Ensure that you find your place in advance and are mentally prepared to give your best.
  
  During the exams:
  
• Solve the test with 100% concentration and ensure that you read the questions and directions carefully.
  
• Do not pay attention to what others are doing in the room. Ignore comments about the test.
  
• Get into warrior mode: do not miss familiar questions, and ensure you do not waste time unnecessarily. Do not be complacent in your approach.
  
• Be positive: There are enough questions in the test that can be attempted correctly. That will definitely fetch you a call. Do not make silly mistakes due to over-confidence.
  
• Do not think negatively: What will happen if I don't do well? Just manage time and try answering the questions accurately.
  
• Ensure that you have done justice to all the sections in the test. Make sure you have tackled all questions related to your strengths first.
  
• Do not resort to copying or any unfair means during the test.
  
  Overall test structure:
  
  

  Total Duration of the exam (minutes)	150 minutes
  Total number of questions	200
  Total Marks	200
  Marks per question	1
  Negative marking	No
  Mode of marking the ovals	Black Ball Point Pen

  
  Selection process:
  
  

  Stage of selection	Marks allotted	Month of conduct of process
  Common Entrance Test (CET)	200	February
  Group Discussion (GD)	17	May/June
  Personal Interview (PI)	17	May/June
  Past Academic Record (PAR)	4	-
  Work Experience (WE)	2	-
  Total	240

  
  MHCET: Area-wise structure over the years:
  
  

  Area	No. of Questions
  	2010	2009	2008
  Quantitative Aptitude	15	15	25
  Data Interpretation	20	25	20
  Data Sufficiency	5	10	5
  Logical Reasoning	54	53	51
  Visual Reasoning	30	30	30
  Verbal Ability and Verbal Reasoning	61	52	54
  Reading Comprehension	15	15	15
  Total	200	200	200

  
  The author is the product head at IMS Learning Resources Private Ltd.