How to prepare for B.Sc. Economics entrance exams?
To prepare for the B.Sc. Economics entrance exams, one has to develop a solid core in mathematics, logical reasoning, and economics, plus a general awareness of current affairs. Take a moment to check out a step-by-step guide for effective preparation:
1. Know the Exam Format
In general, different universities conduct examinations for liberal studies entrance tests which cover the following subjects:
- Mathematics: Algebra, Calculus, Probability, Statistics, Graphs, Functions;
- Economics: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Indian Economy, Basic Theories;
- Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation: Puzzles, Sequences, Graphs, Percentages;
- English Language & Comprehension: Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary; and
- General Knowledge & Current Affairs: Economic Policies, Budget, Global Affairs.
Examples of Exams & Universities:
- ISI Admission Test – Indian Statistical Institute (Very math-heavy)
- DU CUET – Delhi University, JNU, BHU (General Economics & Reasoning)
- Ashoka, Shiv Nadar, Azim Premji – Aptitude-based, logical reasoning & essays
- LSE, UCL, MIT (International Admissions) – SAT, ACT, Advanced Math Tests
2. Topic Oriented Preparation Strategy
Mathematics (50-60% Weightage):
Mathematical concept till high presents a subject area for most entrance exams with the following focus: Algebra (Quadratic Equations, Polynomials, Logarithms), Calculus (Limits, Differentiation, Integration), Probability & Statistics, Matrices & Determerminants, Coordinate Geometry.
Books and Resources: NCERT Mathematics (Class 11 & 12) are mandatory.
RD Sharma or RS Aggarwal for advanced math practice; Schaum’s Outline on Probability & Statistics; ISI & CMI entrance books (advanced interview-grooming math problems).
Tip: Solve at least the entrance papers of ISI, DU CUET, JNU, and IIM-IPM for exposure to tricks.
Economics (30% Weightage):
Microeconomics: Demand-Supply, Elasticity, Market Structures, Game Theory. Macroeconomics: National Income, Inflation, Monetary & Fiscal Policies. Indian Economy: Growth, GDP, Budget, Economic Surveys.
Books and Resources: NCERT Economics (Class 11 & 12), Paul Krugman’s Micro & Macro Economics (for advanced understanding), Ramesh Singh’s Indian Economy (for current affairs & policies), The Economic Times and RBI Reports (for current affairs-based questions).
Tip: Do full-fledged MCQ practice from Trueman’s Economics and case studies on policies.
Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation (10-15% Weightage):
Number series, Puzzles, Blood relations, Coding-decoding; Data Interpretation (Graphs, Pie Charts, Tables); Percentage and Ratio-based logical problems.
Books and Resources: RS Aggarwal—Quantitative Aptitude; Arun Sharma—Logical Reasoning (CAT level but still good for preparation); Previous-year papers for CUET/IPM/ISI for tricky problems.
Tip: Solve about 10-15 questions per day to enhance speed and accuracy.
English & Comprehension (10% Weightage):
- Grammar & Sentence Correction, Reading Comprehension, Synonyms.
- General Knowledge and Current Affairs (10% Weightage)
- Economic Policies, Budget, RBI Announcements, IMF Reports
- World Economy and Trade (WTO, World Bank, G20, BRICS, etc.)
- Major Updates regarding Business and Finance (Stock Market, Inflation Trends)
- Books/Resources: Manual Yearbook/Lucent’s GK
- Business Standard/Financial Times/The Hindu Business Line.
Handy Tip: Follow monthly PIB (Press Information Bureau) reports for authentic economic updates.
3. Practice Mock Tests and Previous Year Papers
Solving previous years’ papers for ISI, DU CUET, JNU, and IIM-IPM would be best.
To build speed and accuracy, mock tests should be taken weekly under timed conditions.
Also, sort out quizzes from GradeUp, Unacademy, and Testbook.
Handly Tip: Maintain a journal to write down your mistakes so that you could analyze them and keep on revising by weaknesses.
4. Time Management Strategy
| Subject | Daily Hours | Key Focus |
| Mathematics | 2-3 hrs | Calculus, Algebra, Probability |
| Economics | 1.5 hrs | Theoretical & Indian Economy |
| Logical Reasoning | 1 hr | Puzzles, Graphs, Data Sets |
| English | 30-45 min | Comprehension, Grammar |
| GK & Current Affairs | 30 min | Daily newspaper, PIB updates |
| Mock Tests | Weekly | Full-length practice tests |
Final Tips for Cracking the Exam
- First Concept Clarity: Do not memorize. Dig deep into the theories.
- Revise Formulas & Theorems: Create a formula sheet for quick revision.
- Stay Consistent: 3-4 months of dedicated prep is enough to crack any exam.
- Join Study Groups: Discuss difficult problems with your group or discuss with online forums.
- Be Calm & Confident on the Day of the Exam: Read the question carefully, and keep time.
