Stop chasing marks, start building concepts
Vikram Dachepally, founder of Tattva Academy explains why deep understanding—not test scores—is the real path to JEE success
Physics is often seen as one of the most challenging subjects for JEE aspirants. From complex concepts to tricky numericals, students frequently struggle with both understanding and application. in speaking to The Hans India at The Hans India, hmtv Education Awards 2026 resently, Vikram Dachepally, Founder and Physics Teacher at Tattva Academy, shares his insights on how students can develop strong problem-solving skills, overcome the fear of numericals, and approach Physics with clarity and confidence. According to Vikram Dachepally, building strong problem-solving skills in Physics begins with one fundamental principle—conceptual depth. He points out that many students make the common mistake of jumping straight into numerical problem-solving without first understanding the underlying concepts. This often leads to confusion, errors, and ultimately a lack of confidence.
He emphasizes that before attempting problems, students must develop a strong conceptual foundation. Every chapter should be studied thoroughly, ensuring clarity in the principles involved. In competitive exams like JEE, questions are not just about calculations but are designed in various models to test how well a student understands the concepts. “The right approach is to first build conceptual clarity and then practice problems model by model,” he explains. This structured method enables students to recognize patterns and apply concepts effectively, gradually improving both accuracy and confidence. Students who skip this process and rush into problem-solving often face negative marking, as JEE ultimately tests the strength of one’s fundamentals rather than speed alone. Addressing the fear of numericals, Dachepally highlights the importance of mindset. He believes students should not merely prepare for the JEE exam but should aim to become individuals capable of cracking it. This subtle shift in perspective can significantly influence performance.
Rather than focusing on marks or constantly worrying about right and wrong answers, students should concentrate on the learning process. Weekly scores or rankings, he says, should not define a student’s confidence. What truly matters is the ability to think critically and logically when faced with a problem.
He also underscores that making mistakes is an essential part of learning. Students may get problems wrong multiple times, but once the concept is clearly understood, those mistakes are rarely repeated. “That’s where real learning happens,” he notes. A disciplined mindset, combined with persistence and patience, gradually eliminates the fear of numericals. True confidence, he adds, comes not from immediate success but from consistent conceptual understanding over time. When it comes to simplifying complex Physics concepts, Dachepally believes the key lies in developing genuine interest and curiosity. Physics often appears difficult when students lack passion for the subject. However, those who engage with curiosity and a willingness to explore tend to find it far more approachable.
He explains that Physics is not just about formulas but about understanding the laws of nature and how the world functions. When students begin to connect concepts with real-life phenomena, the subject starts to make sense naturally. Complexity, he says, arises when students approach Physics purely from an exam-oriented perspective, trying to memorize formulas without truly understanding them. In contrast, those who dive deeper into the subject begin to connect ideas and see the bigger picture.
“Physics requires involvement—both intellectually and emotionally,” he says, describing it as a process of exploration and discovery. With the right attitude and passion, even the most challenging concepts can become simple and intuitive.
Dachepally said that success in Physics—and in JEE—is not about shortcuts or rote memorization. It is about building strong fundamentals, cultivating the right mindset, and developing a genuine interest in learning. With consistent effort and the right approach, students can transform Physics from a challenge into a strength.
