BCS Written Math & Mental Ability study plan

BCS Written Math & Mental Ability · Give each week a clear focus.

8 weeks · About 6 hours per week

Week 1

Arithmetic (Number Systems, HCF/LCM, Fractions, Decimals) & Mental Ability (Series, Coding-Decoding, Analogy, Odd One Out)

Master divisibility rules for 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11 by solving 30 number-system problems without errors.
Compute HCF and LCM using prime factorization and Euclidean algorithm for 20 pairs, including word problems on bells and circular tracks.
Convert fractions to decimals and vice versa, and simplify complex fractions in 15 timed drills under 2 minutes each.
Solve 20 mental ability series questions (number, letter, mixed) and classify each pattern type.
Build a one-page formula sheet for number systems and series rules, then self-quiz until 90% recall.

A 40-question mixed quiz (25 arithmetic, 15 mental ability) with a score log and error analysis.

Week 2

Calculate percentage increase/decrease and successive percentage changes for 20 real-world scenarios.
Solve profit/loss problems involving cost price, selling price, marked price, and discount, including dishonest dealer cases, in 25 questions.
Apply shortcut formulas (e.g., profit% = (SP-CP)/CP × 100) and verify with algebraic setup for 10 problems.
Decode 15 coding-decoding questions using shift, reversal, and substitution patterns.
Identify odd one out in 15 sets based on category, property, or numerical pattern.

A timed 30-minute test on percentage, profit/loss, and coding-decoding with at least 80% accuracy.

Week 3

Solve ratio and proportion problems including compound ratio, duplicate ratio, and division of amounts in 20 questions.
Work through 15 partnership problems involving simple and compound partnerships, capital ratios, and profit sharing.
Solve 20 time-and-work problems using unitary method, efficiency ratios, and work equivalence (M1D1H1 = M2D2H2).
Solve 10 pipes-and-cisterns problems involving filling, emptying, and leakages.
Create a flowchart linking ratio/proportion concepts to partnership and work problems.

A concept map plus a 25-question practice set on ratio, partnership, and time-work with step-by-step solutions.

Week 4

Convert between km/h and m/s and solve 15 speed-time-distance problems involving relative speed and average speed.
Solve 10 train problems (crossing poles, platforms, and other trains) using relative speed formulas.
Apply alligation and mixture rules to solve 15 problems on mixing two or more components.
Compute weighted averages and solve 10 average problems including replacement and age-based scenarios.
Review weeks 1–3 errors and re-solve 10 previously incorrect problems.

A mid-plan diagnostic test (30 questions covering domains 1–6) with a score report and revised error log.

Week 5

Derive and apply simple interest and compound interest formulas for 20 problems, including half-yearly and quarterly compounding.
Solve 10 problems comparing SI and CI for 2 and 3 years using difference formulas.
Solve linear equations and inequalities in one and two variables for 20 problems, including word problems.
Identify and extend arithmetic, geometric, and special sequences for 15 questions.
Form equations from statements and solve them in 10 mixed algebra word problems.

A formula sheet for interest and algebra plus a 20-question quiz with at least 75% accuracy.

Week 6

Memorize and apply area and perimeter formulas for triangles, quadrilaterals, circles, and sectors in 20 problems.
Compute surface area and volume of cubes, cuboids, cylinders, cones, and spheres in 20 problems.
Solve 10 problems combining geometry with ratio or percentage (e.g., scaling dimensions).
Draw and label 5 diagrams for complex mensuration problems to visualize the solution.
Complete a self-made geometry formula flashcard set and test recall under 5 minutes.

A 25-question mensuration test with diagrams and a completed flashcard deck.

Week 7

Revisit high-weight domains (1, 2, 8, 10) by solving 40 mixed problems under timed conditions.
Analyze mistakes from weeks 1–6 and categorize them by error type (conceptual, calculation, misread).
Practice 20 mental ability questions (analogy, odd one out, series) at speed.
Review algebra and percentage shortcuts and create a quick-reference card.
Take a 45-minute sectional test on domains 1, 2, 8, and 10 and target 80% accuracy.

An error-type analysis report and a revised quick-reference card for high-weight domains.

Week 8

Complete two full-length mock tests (60 minutes each) covering all domains under exam conditions.
Review each mock test thoroughly, re-solving every incorrect or guessed question.
Finalize a one-page master formula sheet for all domains.
Practice 30 mental ability questions in 20 minutes to build speed.
Simulate exam-day timing and strategy, including question selection and skipping.

Two completed mock tests with score improvement log and a finalized master formula sheet.

Week 2: Score at least 75% on a self-made 20-question quiz covering number systems, HCF/LCM, fractions, decimals, and series.

Week 4: Achieve 70% or higher on a 30-question diagnostic covering domains 1–6, with all errors logged and categorized.

Week 6: Complete a 25-question mensuration test with at least 80% accuracy and demonstrate formula recall in under 5 minutes.

Week 8: Score 80% or above on at least one full-length mock test and show a 10% improvement from the first mock.