Karnataka State Eligibility Test, abbreviated as K-SET is an essential test for the career of teaching and research opportunities that come under the university and colleges of the state of Karnataka. The Chemical Science exam of K-SET aims at aspiring Assistant Professors who are devoted to qualifying in chemical sciences. Here is a detailed K-SET Chemical Science exam pattern to help you prepare effectively.
K-SET Exam 2024 Overview
K-SET is the eligibility test conducted at state level by the University of Mysore on behalf of the Government of Karnataka. The test is carried out in multiple subjects like Chemical Science. After passing K-SET, aspirants can apply for the Assistant Professor post in various Karnataka Universities and colleges.
There are three papers in this test:
- Paper 1: General Paper on Teaching and Research Aptitude (common for all subjects)
- Paper 2: Topic from Chemical Science
Important Features of K-SET Chemical Science Exam
| Feature | Description |
| Conducting Body | University of Mysore |
| Exam Mode | Offline (Pen and Paper) |
| Medium | English |
| Question Type | Objective (Multiple Choice) |
| Eligibility | Master’s degree in chemical science or equivalent with a minimum of 55% for general and 50% for reserved categories. |
| Negative Marking | No negative marking |
K-SET Exam Pattern for Chemical Science in Detail
The K-SET examination is divided into two papers. Here is a detailed account of what each paper entails.
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Paper 1: General Paper on Teaching and Research Aptitude
This paper evaluates the teaching and research capability of candidates, based on their general knowledge and reasoning abilities.
- Total Questions: 50 questions
- Marks per Question: 2 marks
- Total Marks: 100 marks
- Time Allotted: 1 hour (60 minutes)
Topics Covered:
- Teaching Aptitude
- Research Aptitude
- Reading Comprehension
- Communication
- Logical Reasoning
- Data Interpretation
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- People and Environment
- Higher Education System
Focus Areas: The General Aptitude section tests the candidate’s analytical and teaching skills. For chemical science candidates, excelling in these areas is crucial to obtaining foundational marks that carry forward to the overall marks.
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Paper 2: Chemical Science (Subject-Specific)
Objective: This paper evaluates the candidate’s knowledge of Chemical Science by exploring various strands of the subject.
- Total Questions: 100 questions
- Marks per Question: 2 marks
- Total Marks: 200 marks
- Duration of the Test: 2 hours (120 minutes)
Streams Covered: The syllabus of Paper 2 includes PG-level topics of the Chemical Science stream falling under the following heads:
- Inorganic Chemistry: Trend in periodic table, coordination chemistry, organometallic compounds, bioinorganic chemistry and solid-state chemistry.
- Organic Chemistry: Reaction mechanisms, stereochemistry, organic synthesis, spectroscopy, pericyclic reactions and bioorganic chemistry.
- Physical Chemistry: Thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, quantum chemistry, surface chemistry and statistical thermodynamics.
- Analytical Chemistry: Those comprise chromatography, spectroscopy, electrochemical methods, etc., along with their applications.
- Environmental and Green Chemistry: It encompasses the methods of pollution control, basic principles of green chemistry, sustainable practices in chemical science, etc.
- Interdisciplinary Topics: That comprises biochemistry, material chemistry, as well as industrial chemistry topics associated with practical realities.
Core Topics: This paper requires extensive preparation because this is the paper that primarily tests the knowledge of candidates in chemical science. It can be done by concentrating on core topics, and solving previous year question papers can help build confidence in the core topics area.
Marking Scheme for K-SET Chemical Science Exam
Understanding the marking scheme is essential for devising a strategy. Here’s how the marking works in both papers:
| Paper | Total Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks | Negative Marking |
| Paper 1 | 50 | 2 | 100 | None |
| Paper 2 | 100 | 2 | 200 | None |
Total Question: 300 marks (100 for Paper 1 + 200 for Paper 2)
No negative marking on either of the papers. So, the candidate can attempt all the questions without the fear of losing marks due to wrong answers.
K-SET Chemical Science Preparation Tips
To crack the K-SET Chemical Science exam, one must prepare strategically and systematically. Some tips that can help you are as follows:
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Syllabus and Exam Pattern
- Know the syllabus for Paper 1 and Paper 2.
- Study the previous years’ question papers to know what type of questions are asked and what are the important topics.
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Important Topics
- For Paper 2, give importance to the topics on the basis of weightage. Give more emphasis on the high-scoring areas of inorganic, organic, physical, and analytical chemistry.
- For Paper 1, emphasize reasoning, communication, and teaching aptitude, which will increase your marks.
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Use of Study Material & Resources
- Standard books must be used for gaining a better understanding. Morrison & Boyd Organic Chemistry, Puri & Sharma Physical Chemistry are the recommended authors.
- Previous year question papers should be referred to for the understanding the trends and type of questions asked in K-SET Chemical Science examination.
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Practice Mock Tests and Time Management
- Practice mock tests to check how prepared you are and also practice time management.
- Practicing in a time bar improves your speed and accuracy and increases your chances of completing the paper on the day of the final exam.
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Join Study Groups or Online Courses
- You can join study groups or online courses to get guidance and supporting material, especially if you get confused at certain places or need some well-structured study material to refer to.
- Online sites such as IFAS have individual courses and study materials for K-SET preparation in Chemical Science.
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Revision and Self-Assessment
- Revise every topic from time to time. Self-assessment by attempting short tests or quiz questions on a particular topic would act as a refreshing exercise.
- Spend time for both the papers daily and devote more time to areas in which you are weak.
FAQs
- Is there a negative marking available in the K-SET Chemical Science exam?
No, there is no provision for negative marking in the K-SET exam. Any question can be attempted without losing marks in case of an incorrect response.
- What are the qualification criteria applicable to the K-SET Chemical Science exam?
The qualification criteria typically require candidates to secure at least 40% aggregate marks in case of a general category and 35% in the case of a reserved category across both papers.
- What are the best study books for the K-SET Chemical Science Paper 2 exam?
Best books for K-SET Chemical Science
- Inorganic Chemistry by J.D. Lee
- Organic Chemistry by Morrison & Boyd
- Physical Chemistry by Puri & Sharma
- How can I better my scores in Paper 1?
You may develop your score on Paper 1 if you have enhanced your logical reasoning, reading ability, and teaching aptitude. General aptitude questions, along with going over the higher education system topic, are helpful.
- How often is the K-SET exam?
The K-SET exam is held once a year, and the schedule and conducting are by the University of Mysore.
Conclusion
The exam for K-SET Chemical Science provides clear pathways to candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors in Karnataka. Thoroughly known about the exam pattern, proper preparation will go a long way in enhancing chances. Prepare methodically and obtain good quality resources in order to qualify in this exam. Focus on mastering the syllabus by practicing previous year papers and refining teaching and research aptitude skills. With consistency and dedication, you are sure to make out well in the K-SET Chemical Science exam, which will take you a step further into a bright teaching career.