How to Build a 90-Day Study Plan for MA/MSc Economics Entrance Exam: A Step-by-Step Blueprint

Cracking the MA/MSc Economics entrance exams for top institutions like DSE, IGIDR, JNU, Gokhale, or MSE requires more than just knowledge—it demands structure, discipline, and a smart study plan.

If you have 90 days left for your exam and don’t know where to start, this guide is your roadmap. It breaks down exactly how to approach your preparation, what to study, and how to stay consistent over the next three months.

Why You Need a 90-Day Study Plan

Economics entrance exams are both competitive and concept-driven. With subjects like Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Statistics, Mathematics, and Econometrics in the mix, you need a focused strategy.

A 90-day plan helps you:

• Prioritize important topics
• Balance theory and practice
• Track your daily and weekly progress
• Avoid burnout through systematic revision

Understand the Syllabus and Pattern First

Prior to beginning any preparations, it's critical to comprehend:

• What subjects are tested: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Mathematics, Statistics, and Econometrics (in some exams)
• The structure of the exams you're targeting: DSE, IGIDR, JNU, Gokhale, and MSE all have slightly different patterns and emphasis areas
• The types of questions asked: Most exams include multiple-choice questions or short-answer numericals with a focus on accuracy and speed

This knowledge allows you to tailor your study plan to specific exam patterns.

The 90-Day Strategy: Three Phases

Phase 1 (Day 1–30): Foundation Building

Focus on concept clarity. Your aim should be to revise core topics thoroughly.

• Read standard textbooks and class notes
• Watch video lectures to clarify difficult topics
• Solve basic and intermediate-level problems

Daily targets might include:

• 1 hour on Microeconomics concepts and practice
• 1 hour on Macroeconomics theory
• 1 hour on basic Math/Stats practice
• 30 minutes analyzing past year questions of one institute

Reserve weekends for revision of the entire week's work.

Phase 2 (Day 31–60): Strengthening and Practice

This is the time to move from concept-building to practice and application.

• Solve more complex numericals and previous year papers
• Take timed topic-wise tests
• Revise weekly with handwritten notes or mind maps

Daily study goals can be:

• 1.5 hours of practice questions from two different subjects
• 1 hour of theory revision
• One hour for PYQ practice or topic-based assessments
• 30 minutes for analyzing errors

Create a notebook with important formulas and frequent mistakes to track your learning.

Phase 3 (Day 61–90): Mock Tests and Final Push

The final month is all about testing yourself in exam conditions and eliminating weak areas.

• Attempt full-length mock tests every 3–4 days
• Deeply analyze your performance and refine your strategy
• Focus entirely on revision and improving speed and accuracy

Suggested routine:

• 2.5 hours for organized revision or comprehensive practice exams
• 1.5 hours targeting weak topics
• 30 minutes break to relax and recharge

Avoid learning new topics after Day 75 unless absolutely necessary.

Weekly and Daily Time Management Tips

For working professionals:

• Study 2 to 3 hours on weekdays
• Devote 6 to 8 hours on weekends
• Use focused time blocks like early mornings or evenings

For full-time aspirants:

• Try to get five to six hours a day, split up into three or four concentrated stints.
• Use time-tracking tools or timers to stay consistent

Sample weekly plan:

• Monday to Friday: Core subjects + past year questions + topic-wise tests
• Saturday: Full syllabus revision or mock test
• Sunday: Feedback analysis and next week’s planning

Useful Tools and Resources

• Digital planners, Google Sheets, or paper-based journals to track goals
• Mock test platforms tailored to MA/MSc Economics entrance like ArthaPoint Plus
• Online coaching courses that provide lectures, notes, and practice sets
• Peer discussion groups on Telegram or WhatsApp for sharing doubts and tips

Final Tips for Staying Consistent and Motivated

• Break big targets into small daily goals
• Use a habit tracker to maintain discipline
• Take short breaks to prevent fatigue and burnout
• Talk to mentors or join coaching support groups to stay accountable

Conclusion

A clear, structured 90-day plan can turn your preparation into a success story. Whether you're a beginner or a repeater, this strategy offers the clarity and consistency needed to excel in the MA/MSc Economics Entrance Exam.