Allow me to share my views on it. To do this, we need to be specific and discuss each subject individually. Let’s take an example: for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, we can’t have the same food; the dishes and eating habits are different at these food times. Similarly, in subjects such as physics, chemistry, math, and biology, we need to maintain a distinct approach.
In the 11th and 12th grades, the NCERT physics book is so advanced that it feels like going to the gym and skipping warm-up exercises to start with heavy workouts; you will feel the consequences the next day. Similarly, starting with the NCERT book directly is not advisable on the first day, week, or month; instead, students should use a reference book to develop their skills for tackling the questions and numericals found in both the NCERT and NCERT exemplar.
In physics, students should begin with a useful reference book; after completing the entire chapter, they can then open the NCERT book. However, they should not feel discouraged (as many students do) if they are unable to attempt the questions, such as solved examples, in-text questions, and back exercise questions (especially numerical ones). Every single thing has to be done thoroughly. During the first attempt, one should read the question carefully; instead of getting frustrated while trying to solve it, one should calmly read the stepwise solution for nearly all questions until reaching a point where they can decode the question language (which is the greatest hurdle) and identify the formulae or list of concepts needed for solving numerical problems.
So the moral of the story is that, just like those two tires or wheels on a bike, NCERT and reference books have equal values; you can’t compromise with anyone in physics.
Now let’s discuss the subject that complements physics. Yes, that’s right, it’s maths. In mathematics, the approach is completely different; one must begin with NCERT and should only attempt a reference book after completing an exercise. Just remember one thing: doing only NCERT in mathematics is like eating a cooked vegetable dish that has salt and other spices in a small quantity, which partly fulfils your daily nutritional needs. Adding a supplement to fulfil the daily nutritional value and doing reference book questions also boosts your confidence and marks in tests/exams, and, above all, your knowledge level grows considerably.
Chemistry NCERT is preferred over reference books. The final board exam, the NEET (UG) entrance exam, and most entrance exams after 12th grade are fully accessible after thoroughly completing NCERT, particularly in organic chemistry, which should be studied exclusively from NCERT. However, for numerical practice in physical chemistry, it is advisable to consult reference books. Inorganic chemistry can also be studied from NCERT, unless you wish to acquire additional knowledge that will help you excel in the chemistry practical exam.
Now let’s look within ourselves, i.e., inside the human body. Of course, I am talking about biology. In biology, NCERT should be prioritised first. Almost all the content you will get from NCERT; just like other subjects, you can’t avoid reference books.
I will conclude my article with a few more lines: if you aim to achieve average marks of 60% to 70%, then NCERT is the best resource. In chemistry, NCERT can get you 90%+ marks, even 100%, but it’s not true for physics and maths. If your target is above 80%, then using one reference book alongside NCERT is acceptable. But if you are focusing on achieving 95% or 100%, it is equally important to study NCERT, the reference book, and the sample paper.
You should study a few excellent reference books to master any subject, not just one.
The final piece of advice emphasizes the importance of a “guru”—a skilled mentor— over all other books.
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