The Impact of JEE Advanced 2020 Amidst Pandemic
Due to the unprecedented global health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the JEE Advanced 2020 was postponed from its initial date in May to September 27, 2020. This unexpected delay not only changed the timeline for students but also influenced the marking scheme and eventual result outcomes. The evaluation process and the results both managed to surprise participants and educators alike.
Surprising Marking Scheme and Initial Scores
Typically, the marking scheme for the JEE Advanced is structured to reflect the difficulty of the paper. In previous years, the total marks were around 360, and students aimed for a score in the vicinity of 250-300 to secure a good rank. However, in 2020, the total score was adjusted to 396, which required a higher threshold for success. I, personally, initially estimated my score to be around 360, but after reviewing the provided key by my coaching institute, I scored 135 marks.
The Journey to Ranking
Before the result announcement on October 5, 2020, I had low expectations of achieving a ranking within the 9,000-10,000 range. However, the results brought about a pleasant surprise as I secured a rank of 6,578. This score of 135/396 remained the same after the key corrections, showcasing the stability of the evaluation process.
The ranking was a significant milestone for me, particularly as my physics performance was lower than my other subjects. This success was the result of two months of dedicated preparation for the BitsAT (BITS Admission Test) and JEE Advanced, despite the lockdown. Since my JEE Mains rank of 12,783 was slightly disappointing, the improvement in my JEE Advanced ranking, being almost half of my previous rank, provided a slice of satisfaction.
Reflections and Satisfaction
Reflecting on the journey, the foundations were laid down by consistent hard work, guidance from my coaching institutes, and strategic preparation for the various entrance exams. The COVID-19 lockdown period gave me the opportunity to focus on my weak areas and improve them. Coupled with this, the support from family and friends played a crucial role in my success.
Additionally, achieving a score of 310 in the BITSAT further solidified my confidence and solidified my ranking in JEE Advanced. This dual success narrative is a testament to the importance of a well-rounded preparation strategy.
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