So, you’re planning to choose PCMB after completing your 10th grade, but are confused about it? Well, don’t worry. You’re not alone. There is always a feeling of doubt and confusion that every student feels when asked “what stream will you choose after 10th?”. There is a pretty good chance that your parents are urging you to choose Science, as it is considered to be the hardest and most rewarding stream that schools have to offer. If you’re still having doubts about what stream to pick, we may be of aid.
If you have made up your mind on not only choosing Science, but PCMB, this is the article for you, since you will be balancing some of the toughest subjects.
Here are six considerations to help you answer the question “Should I take PCMB in Class 11th?”
1. Your Past Academic Performance
Well, first things first. Your past performance PCMB subjects, particularly in Maths and Biology, can help determine if PCMB stream is the right choice for you. Pushing through two years of intense coursework would be mentally exhausting, and if you have consistently struggled in either subject, taking PCMB courses in Class 11 might not be the best decision, given that the subjects are not getting any easier in 11th and 12th.
2. PCMB Opens Up All Career Options, But It’s Not Always a Practical Choice
There is no doubt that PCMB students are eligible for a wide range of career options - Be it Medicine and Engineering or Research, Business and Social Sciences. However, having too many choices can sometimes lead to confusion rather than clarity.
By the time you reach 12th, you will be busy with both Board Exams and Entrance Exams Preparation. If you are still unsure about your career path at that stage, the overwhelming number of options could make the decision harder. We suggest shortlisting your career interests early and choose subjects accordingly. Career options for PCMB students are vast, but it’s important to remember that the decision should align with your true passion.
3. Engineering? Or Medical?
Many PCMB students think “well, I am studying both the subjects, why not give both the exams as well?”, and they do just that, they sign up for both NEET and JEE to keep their options open. But, this can turn out to be counterproductive. Juggling preparation for both exams is extremely difficult, as they require different skill sets and study patterns. If you are genuinely passionate about both fields and have the time and energy to dedicate yourself completely, then PCMB courses might be the ideal choice. So, if you are choosing PCMB stream solely to keep your options open, it might be wiser to rethink the decision.
4. PCMB Requires Hard Work and Dedication
With the PCMB Stream, your capacity to understand and memorize tough concepts will improve, but the workload is intense. You will be handling:
- Complex problem-solving in Maths and Physics
- Detailed Memorization in Biology and Chemistry, as scientific terms don’t simply just roll off the tongue.
- Regular Practicals and Lab Work
As mentioned before, balancing studies, coaching classes, and entrance exam preparation will require excellent time management. You will need to have your schedule figured out, to the dot, and have it seen through. You will hardly get much time to breathe, to have fun by playing video games, or outdoor sports, or reading a book, or whatever recreational activities you like. Make sure you are ready for this level of commitment before choosing PCMB courses.
5. The Financial and Time Investment for Future Studies
All of the pathways - Medicine, Engineering or Research, require significant time and financial investment beyond Class 12th. Medical students, for example, spend 5 to 7 years completing their MBBS and even more for specialization, while engineering students might invest their time and resources in pursuing higher education.
6. If You’re Feeling Overwhelmed, It's Okay To Stop
Managing four difficult subjects will be overwhelming, PCMB students often score lower compared to those who opt for relatively easier subject combinations, like PCM + Computer Science, or PCB + Physical Education.
You might be thinking “why does that matter, I will get admission on the basis of my JEE or NEET scores, not school marks”. Yes, school marks won’t get you into a college, but you still need to graduate school in order to enroll in colleges. If you have already chosen PCMB subjects but are struggling with the workload, don’t hesitate dropping a subject. Listen, I understand how mind boggling it sounds, the pressure you will have on your head of being called a quitter, but think about this carefully for a moment. Your 11th and 12th are your very first steps into what might shape up to be your future, and if you feel like it's crushing you, there is no shame in turning back and dropping a subject, because none of it would matter if you grow up to be unhappy and mentally exhausted.
Failed in Class 12th Exams? Here’s What You Can Do Next
FAQs
Q: What is the Full Form of PCMB?
The full form of PCMB is Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology, representing a combination of core subjects in the PCMB Stream.
Q:Is PCMB Tough?
“Is PCMB Tough” or “Is PCMB Hard” are the most common questions asked about these subjects and the answer to them is yes and no. PCMB Stream is considered challenging for very good reasons, like a vast syllabus that requires you to balance studies with fun. However, it is not impossible, and with hard work, dedication and effective time management, it is possible to succeed.
Q: What are the disadvantages of taking PCMB?
The main disadvantages of taking PCMB include:
- A heavy and demanding workload across all subjects
- Limited time for extracurricular activities
- The pressure of preparing for both Board Exams and entrance exams like JEE and NEET.
- A higher likelihood of stress and burnout for students not well-prepared for the challenges.
Q: What are the advantages of taking PCMB in 11th?
The advantages of taking PCMB in 11th include:
- Exposure to a wide range of career options like Medicine, Engineering and Research
- A well-rounded academic foundation, enhancing problem-solving and analytical skills.
- A strong start for pursuing competitive exams like JEE, NEET or other entrance exams
- Versatility in future studies, allowing students to shift between fields like Engineering, Medical Sciences, or Research.
