When preparing for the UGC NET, many aspirants find it difficult to decide whether they should solve previous years’ papers or mock tests. Though both have their advantages, they often ask themselves which is a better option. If you find yourself in a similar situation, you’re not alone. Let’s take a look at both methods and check how to make the most of your preparation time through them.

BUY NOW: Best UGC NET Online Courses | Mock Test Series | For 2025 Exam

Must Read: How to Prepare for the UGC NET Online Free?

The Value of Previous Year Papers

Previous year question papers are often the first step for many aspirants. They give you a fair idea of how the NTA has framed questions in the past and what kind of patterns tend to repeat. When you go through them carefully, you begin to notice which topics are asked frequently, what kind of questions appear in reasoning, and how balanced the paper usually is in terms of difficulty.

Solving these papers also helps build confidence. Once you’re familiar with the way questions are worded and how topics are twisted, you feel less anxious about the unknown. That said, it’s important to remember that previous year papers reflect the past. While they’re incredibly useful for understanding the trend, they may not always reflect the latest updates in the syllabus or changes in question style introduced by NTA.

Why Mock Tests Matter More Than You Think?

An NTA UGC NET mock test provides you with the actual exam experience. They’re timed, formatted like the real paper, and often include updated questions based on the latest syllabus. This is where you truly test your readiness, not just in terms of knowledge, but also in terms of speed, accuracy, and mental stamina.

Mock tests help you identify your weak spots early. You may think you're good at a subject, but only when you attempt a mock test under timed conditions, you discover where you tend to make silly mistakes or run out of time. More importantly, the detailed analysis after each test helps you correct yourself before the actual exam.

You must attempt UGC NET online free mock tests that are carefully crafted to match the latest NTA pattern. They’re a great way to evaluate where you stand and how far you need to go.

So, What Should You Focus On?

The honest answer is both. Previous years’ papers and mock tests serve different purposes, and together, they build a strong foundation for your UGC NET preparation. Previous years’ papers teach you what to expect. Mock tests train you to deal with the unexpected.

Think of previous year papers as the theory and mock tests as the practical. Solving papers without testing yourself under exam conditions can leave you unprepared for the pressure. On the other hand, taking mock tests without understanding the types of questions that have appeared earlier may cause you to miss out on scoring opportunities.

Don’t Ignore the Power of a Structured Course

Self-study is great, but a well-designed UGC NET course online can give your preparation the structure and direction it needs. A good course will typically combine conceptual clarity with regular assessments, mock tests, and doubt-clearing support, all of which are essential for consistent improvement. 

Are You a teacher? For Latest Updated FREE UGC NET Specimen Sample Books for Teachers- Click Here

Final Thoughts

Choosing between mock tests and previous year papers isn’t about picking one over the other. It’s about using both smartly. Start your journey by understanding the past through previous years’ questions, and then sharpen your skills with regular mock test practice. Also, if you’re looking for a reliable place to begin, UGC NET online mock tests are available on Oswaal360, offering you the perfect environment to test, learn, and grow, all in one place.