
Their main difference is based on what they want to do and how familiar they are with patterns.
• Mock tests help you get used to the real NEET exam by providing new questions and following its current pattern.
• Previous year questions are actual questions from previous NEET exams and reveal which topics are asked most often.
To get a better score, you need to know when and how to use flashcards and study sheets.
Must Read: 10 Best Ways to Use NEET Online Mock Tests
Which is better for NEET: Mock Tests or PYQs?
Feature |
Mock Tests |
PYQs (Previous Year Questions) |
Purpose |
Practice in exam-like environment |
Understand real exam trends |
Difficulty Level |
Varies (easy to tough) |
Standard (real NEET level) |
Time Management Practice |
Yes |
Limited (you already know patterns) |
Concept Repetition Check |
No |
Yes |
Real NEET Question Experience |
No |
Yes |
Confidence Boost |
Moderate (if paper is tough) |
High (as you solve actual NEET Qs) |
Conclusion: Use mock tests to test your speed and accuracy. Use the NEET PYQ question paper book to revise repeated concepts.
Why is solving PYQs important for NEET preparation?
Working on PYQs improves your understanding.
• Getting to know the NEET exam trend.
• Noticing important and recurring themes.
Solving NEET questions helps you build self-assurance.
It is necessary to study the NEET PYQ book regularly to notice how questions are written and which subjects appear most often.
Should I practice NEET mock tests daily, weekly, or monthly?
As soon as your syllabus is almost finished:
• Do 1 full mock test every week.
As the exam nears, try to do 2-3 mock tests every week.
Mock tests create a realistic environment, which helps you gain accuracy and speed. Along with this, you should use a NEET preparation question bank to practice different subjects.
Is it possible to skip mock tests if I do PYQs?
No, depending on PYQs alone might not be enough to prepare you well. Every year, NEET introduces new questions that require candidates to apply their knowledge. To get ready for those:
• Solve NEET sample papers to practice for unexpected questions.
• Try doing mock exams to see how you respond when under time pressure.
Mock tests and PYQs help students in their own ways. The most effective approach is to use both methods.
How should I plan my NEET practice strategy?
Here's a simple strategy combining all tools:
Week |
Activity |
Week 1-4 |
Daily PYQs + Chapter-wise NEET preparation question bank |
Week 5-8 |
Weekly NEET sample paper + PYQs |
Week 9-12 |
Full-length mock tests every 3 days + Mistake analysis |
Include revision and note-making along with solving questions from a NEET books collection to maximize your retention.
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Final Thoughts
Don’t make a choice between mock tests and previous years’ questions; make sure to use both wisely.
- PYQs make it easier to revise.
- Mock tests help you get used to the conditions of the real exam.
Mix them with the books you use for NEET, and you will improve your chances of getting a better score.