The National Health Mission Uttar Pradesh (NHM UP) exams offer a significant opportunity for thousands of young people every year to join government service. This recruitment drive for positions such as Staff Nurse, ANM, Lab Technician, Pharmacist, and others not only opens the door to permanent employment but also provides a chance to contribute to society. However, in the face of increasing competition, simply working hard is not enough; working smart is crucial. Unfortunately, many candidates make common but serious mistakes during their preparation, which weakens their chances of selection.
Not fully understanding the syllabus – the most common and dangerous mistake
The first and most important thing when starting preparation for the NHM UP exam is a thorough understanding of the syllabus. Many candidates buy books or join coaching classes without even reading the official syllabus. They assume that “whatever is being taught will be asked in the exam.” This assumption often proves detrimental. The syllabus for each position is different, and some subjects are given more weight than others. Ignoring the syllabus leads candidates to either waste time on unnecessary topics or miss out on crucial topics that are directly asked in the exam.
Studying without a study plan
Many candidates start studying with enthusiasm, but they lack a concrete study plan. They study one subject sometimes, another at other times, and often take breaks from studying for several days. Studying without a plan prevents the efficient use of time and makes it impossible to complete the syllabus on time. Regularity and discipline are extremely important in an exam like NHM UP. Preparation remains incomplete without a clear daily and weekly study plan.
Relying only on theory and neglecting practice
Simply memorizing is not enough for the NHM UP exam. Many candidates read the theoretical material thoroughly but fail to practice questions. As a result, they panic when the questions in the exam are slightly twisted or presented differently. Not practicing with mock tests, practice sets, and previous years’ question papers is a major mistake. Practice not only improves understanding of the questions but also strengthens time management and confidence.
Ignoring previous years’ question papers
Many candidates think that there’s no point in looking at old question papers, as the pattern must have changed. However, the truth is that the nature of questions from many subjects in the NHM UP exam remains almost the same. Previous years’ question papers help in understanding which topics are frequently asked and what the difficulty level of the exam is. Not reviewing them leaves a significant gap in preparation.
Choosing incorrect or excessive study material
Today, a vast amount of study material is available on the internet. There’s an abundance of YouTube videos, PDF notes, apps, and books. Many candidates think that the more material they have, the better their preparation will be. But in reality, too much material creates confusion. Studying from the right and limited sources is more effective. Relying on incorrect or unreliable material can lead to wrong answers in the exam.
Taking Current Affairs and General Awareness lightly
In the NHM UP exam, not only technical subjects but also general knowledge and current affairs play a crucial role. Many candidates keep postponing these topics, thinking they will study them “at the end.” As a result, they run out of time before the exam, and this section remains weak. Government schemes related to health, new initiatives of the National Health Mission, and recent events are frequently asked, and ignoring them can be costly.
Not focusing on time management
It is often observed that candidates study diligently but don’t learn time management. In the exam, there is a limited time for each question. If candidates don’t develop the habit of solving questions within the time limit during practice, they either panic in the examination hall or leave many questions incomplete. Learning to use time effectively while taking mock tests is very important.
Fearing or avoiding mock tests
Many candidates don’t take mock tests because they are afraid of getting low scores. They think that they will take the test only after completing their entire preparation. But this thinking is wrong. The purpose of mock tests is to identify weaknesses. The sooner a candidate identifies their weaknesses, the sooner they can address them. Avoiding mock tests leaves preparation incomplete.
Neglecting Health and Mental Well-being
Many candidates neglect their health while studying for long hours. Lack of sleep, poor diet, and constant stress negatively impact their preparation. Mental fatigue and stress weaken memory. During NHM UP exam preparation, a balanced lifestyle, some exercise, and sufficient rest are just as important as studying.
Believing Rumors and Incomplete Information
Many rumors about the exam date, syllabus changes, or selection process circulate on social media. Some candidates believe these rumors without official confirmation and change their preparation strategy. This habit can be detrimental. Always rely on the official NHM UP website and credible sources for information.
Starting New Books at the Last Minute
As the exam approaches, some candidates, in a panic, buy new books and notes. This distracts them and confuses what they’ve already studied. In the final stages, the focus should be on revision and practice, not on learning new topics.
Conclusion: Success comes from learning from mistakes.
Success in the NHM UP exam is achieved not just through hard work, but through smart preparation. The mistakes mentioned above are very common, but correcting them in time significantly increases the chances of selection. A clear understanding of the syllabus, limited and reliable study material, regular practice, mock tests, and a balanced lifestyle—all these factors together bring you closer to success. Remember, exam preparation is a marathon, where patience, consistency, and the right direction are your greatest assets.
