NTA, NEW DELHI: One of NEET aspirants’ most frequently asked questions is, “Are previous year questions (PYQs) repeated in NEET UG?” The short and simple answer is yes, they are—but with a catch.
NEET UG and the Mystery of Repeated Questions
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET UG), conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), does not officially confirm the repetition of previous year questions. However, a close analysis of NEET papers over the past 10–15 years reveals a clear pattern: questions do repeat, either in identical form or with minor data modifications — especially in subjects like Physics and Biology.
Why Do Some Questions Repeat in NEET UG?
- NCERT-Centric Syllabus: NEET strictly adheres to the NCERT syllabus. Since the foundational concepts remain constant, NTA naturally draws questions from core NCERT topics, resulting in repeated or rephrased versions of older questions.
- Limited Variation in Concepts: Subjects like Biology and Chemistry have a finite number of high-weightage topics, making some questions recur in form or intent.
- Time-Tested Question Models: Certain formula-based or definition-type questions are favored for their clarity and conceptual relevance — especially in Physics numericals or Biology diagrams.
Types of Repetition in NEET Questions
Types of repetition | Description |
Direct Repetition | Exact same question appears again — rare, mostly in Biology. |
Conceptual Repetition | Same concept, but data or question framing is different — common in Physics. |
Pattern Repetition | The question structure is similar; only values or diagrams vary. |
Fact-Based Repetition | Straightforward questions from NCERT facts or tables, common in Bio/Chem. |
Understanding Repetition in NEET UG
While exact repetitions are relatively rare, conceptual and pattern-based repetitions are very common. Let’s break it down:
Physics:
- A significant number of questions resemble those from previous NEETs or even JEE Mains.
- Often, only values or variables are changed while the concept and method remain the same.
Chemistry:
- While Chemistry questions are usually unique, certain NCERT-based factual and conceptual questions do repeat over the years.
- Modified versions of numerical problems also appear.
Biology:
- Biology is the most repetition-prone section.
- Questions based on NCERT facts, diagrams, or definitions may appear identically or with slight rewording.
Subjects | Repetition Likelihood | Nature of Questions that Repeats |
Biology | ★★★★☆ (High) | Definitions, examples, diagrams, NCERT lines |
Physics | ★★★☆☆ (Moderate) | Numericals, derivation-based MCQs, formula types |
Chemistry | ★★☆☆☆ (Low to Moderate) | Organic conversions, NCERT intext questions |
Why is Practicing PYQs a Game-Changer for NEET UG?
Even though the repetition isn’t predictable, practicing PYQs offers multiple advantages for NEET aspirants:
- Familiarity with the Exam Pattern
Understand how topics are framed, how questions are asked, and what trends persist over time. - Improved Speed and Accuracy
Solving real NEET-level questions sharpens time management and accuracy under pressure. - Focused Revision
PYQs help identify high-weightage topics across Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. - Self-Evaluation Tool
Repeatedly practicing PYQs lets you track progress, analyze mistakes, and build confidence.
How Many Years of PYQs Should You Solve?
- A minimum of 10–15 years of PYQs is recommended.
- Solve subject-wise: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics separately for deeper clarity.
- Use PYQs as mock tests to simulate the real exam experience.
- Include questions from JEE Mains/Advanced and AIIMS (for Physics/Chemistry) for the extra edge, though overlap is minimal.
Common Mistakes Students Make with PYQs
- Only reading questions without solving them.
- Not analyzing why an answer is correct or incorrect.
- Ignoring similar questions with new values.
- Using PYQs as cramming material instead of practice.
Remember, solving PYQs is a learning tool — not a shortcut!
Tips for NEET Aspirants:
- Focus on conceptual repetition, not just identical questions.
- Stick to NCERT textbooks; 90% of NEET content is NCERT-based.
- Pay special attention to Physics numerical types, even from JEE papers.
- Use PYQ-based books and apps that track past patterns.
- Use PYQs for active recall, not passive reading.
Download NEET PYQ PDFs
To make your preparation easier, we’ve curated a free collection of NEET Previous Year Question Papers (PDFs), categorized by subject and year.
👉 Click here to download NEET PYQ PDFs
Strategic Use of PYQs Can Make or Break Your NEET Prep
While NTA doesn’t promise question repetition, the trends don’t lie. If you’re serious about cracking NEET UG 2025, the previous year’s questions must be a part of your core preparation strategy.
Practicing PYQs is not just about spotting repeats — it’s about mastering the style, logic, and recurring themes of NEET.
Treat them as blueprints for success — understand the logic, apply the concept, and prepare smartly. Remember, in competitive exams, patterns are power.
Stay tuned to Edufever for NEET updates, toppers’ tips, free study materials, and expert guidance.