Was the BITSAT 17 Tougher Than BITSAT 16? An Analysis

The debate around the difficulty levels of the BITSAT (Birla Institute of Technology and Science Admission Test) in 2017 versus 2016 has been quite intense. Personal experiences, feedback from classmates, and online discussions have fueled this discussion. This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison, backed by data and insights, to help aspirants make informed decisions.

My Personal Experience

In my opinion, the BITSAT 17 was tougher than the BITSAT 16. I appeared in the test as a freshman and after dropping a year, and found this year's paper to be lengthy and slightly more challenging. This sentiment is echoed by numerous friends, and even online platforms such as Quora have reported a similar trend. For instance, last year, many students could easily score 400, whereas this year, very few got this score.

Reasons for Increased Difficulty

The reason for this increase in difficulty can be attributed to the dramatic rise in cutoffs over the years. According to data, the cutoffs in 2017 increased by an average of 7 marks for all branches, with Computer Science having a 10 mark increase. Given this trend, it is reasonable to think that the authorities wanted to adjust the difficulty levels slightly to reduce the cutoff.

Comparing the Papers Subject-Wise

To understand the detailed comparison, let's break down the subjects into their respective sections:

Mathematics

For Mathematics, the paper was considered easy, with 40-41 out of 45 questions being straightforward. The remaining questions required a bit of tricky understanding and application.

Chemistry

Chemistry was also deemed easy, with 36-37 out of 40 questions being straightforward. However, a few questions required more specific knowledge or non-common learning points.

Physics

Physics was similarly easy, with 35-36 out of 40 questions being accessible. The remaining questions involved derivations or slightly complex solutions.

Logical Reasoning

Logical Reasoning remained relatively easy, with 9 out of 10 questions being straightforward. This subject has consistently remained easy for the aspirants.

English

English was quite varied, with 15 questions depending heavily on individual performance. Preparation and practice were crucial for this section.

Implications for Cutoffs

While the paper was deemed easier than the previous year, it is unlikely to impact the cutoffs significantly. The increasing intake in various courses, particularly in B.E. Electrical and Communication, will keep the cutoffs stable. Therefore, even if the paper is easier, the overall increase in intake will help maintain a balanced cutoff level.

Preparation Tips

For all aspiring students, here are a few tips to help you perform better:

Do not rush for unanswered questions: Focus on accuracy and complete all answerable questions correctly. Time Management: The exam is timed, so ensure you manage your time efficiently. Spend more time on math and physics. Practice Regularly: Regular practice is key to acing the exam. Use previous year's papers and mock tests. Stay Positive: Confidence and positivity play a crucial role in achieving your goals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the BITSAT 17 may have been simpler in some aspects, the overall difficulty remains a topic of debate. Preparing well and managing your time effectively will be key to success in the exam.

Bonus Tip:

For those aiming for the top scores, consider these tips:

If you can get 100 correct, you'll get a score of 300. If you answer 140 questions with 30 incorrect, you'll still get a score of 300. For average aspirants, aim for around 128-130 attempted questions with high accuracy, which should result in a score between 320-380.

Wish you all the very best for your BITSAT preparation and success.

Be positive, be confident, and never lose hope. Time is less, but panicking is the last thing you should do.