When you see someone top the NIFT (National Institute of Fashion Technology) entrance exam, it can feel like they have a secret formula. The good news is that there isn’t any magic trick—just simple habits repeated consistently. Let’s take a look at how successful NIFT aspirants structure their days, balance sketch practice with theory, and use mock tests to stay on track. You’ll find ideas you can try yourself, without fancy jargon or complicated steps.
Start the Day with a Clear Plan
One thing top scorers have in common is that they don’t wake up and dive straight into work without a plan. Instead, they spend the first 10 minutes of their morning outlining what they want to accomplish that day. For example:
- 6:00–6:10 AM: Review today’s goals (sketching, color theory, general knowledge).
- 6:10–7:00 AM: Sketch practice.
- 7:00–8:00 AM: Take a break, have breakfast, and review notes.
This simple “morning checklist” helps them stay focused. When your goals are written down, it’s easier to say “Yes” to productive tasks and “No” to distractions, like scrolling through social media first thing.
Keep Sketch Practice Short and Regular
You might think spending five hours drawing each day is the only way to get better, but NIFT toppers usually recommend shorter, daily sketch sessions. Instead of burning out on a long marathon, they do:
- 30–45 minutes per session
- 2–3 sessions per day
This could look like sketching a quick still-life in the morning, doing a fashion figure study in the afternoon, and practicing perspective by drawing a simple room layout in the evening. The goal is to keep your hand steady and your mind engaged. Short sessions help you avoid feeling tired or bored.
Mix Theory with Creativity
Yes, NIFT needs strong sketch skills—but theory matters too. Every evening, many toppers spend 30–60 minutes reading design fundamentals: color harmony, textiles, art history, or even basic general knowledge. They don’t just memorize facts; they connect theory to what they drew earlier. For example:
- If they practiced shading a draped fabric, they review a page on how light behaves on different materials.
- After reading a section on Indian costume history, they try sketching a quick saree with traditional motifs.
This way, sketching and theory feed each other. You don’t just draw; you draw with purpose and understanding.
Use Mock Tests to Identify Weak Spots
Mock tests are like mirrors that show you where to improve. Many toppers take a full-length mock every weekend under timed conditions—just like the real exam. Here’s how they make the most of mocks:
- Simulate Exam Conditions: No distractions, strict time limits, basic materials only.
- Review Immediately: As soon as the mock is done, they go over each question and sketch. What worked? What felt shaky?
- Targeted Practice: If perspective drawings were messy, they dedicate next week’s practice to vanishing points and horizon lines. If color combinations felt off, they spend extra time studying color wheels and making small swatches.
With this loop—mock, review, practice—they steadily close gaps in their skills.
Stay Flexible and Adapt
Even toppers face days when nothing seems to click. Maybe a sketch looks terrible, or a theory concept just won’t stick. On those days, many successful students switch gears:
- Step Away: Take a short walk or do a non-art activity for 15–20 minutes.
- Try a Different Sketch Style: If shading feels frustrating, sketch only outlines or do quick gestural drawings.
- Change Study Mode: Instead of reading a textbook, watch a short YouTube video on design fundamentals or listen to a podcast about famous designers.
This flexibility keeps motivation high. It’s easy to get discouraged if you force yourself to follow a plan that doesn’t fit how you feel that day. Topper-level prep isn’t about being rigid; it’s about knowing when to push and when to pause.
Build a Supportive Study Group
No one succeeds alone. Most NIFT toppers team up with two or three peers who share similar goals. They meet (in person or online) once or twice a week to:
- Share Feedback: Show each other sketches and give honest, kind suggestions.
- Discuss Theory: Explain concepts to one another—teaching helps cement their own understanding.
- Hold Each Other Accountable: A simple message, “Did you finish today’s practice?” keeps them on track.
A small, dedicated study group becomes a mini accountability system. When you know others are counting on you, you’re more likely to stick to your plan.
Balance Study with Rest and Fun
Finally, don’t forget to recharge. Toppers schedule at least one full rest day each week or a couple of evenings where they do something unrelated to design—watching a movie, playing a sport, or just hanging out with friends. This break prevents burnout. When Monday comes around, they’re energized and ready to dive back in.
Key Takeaways
- Start your day by writing down clear, simple goals.
- Practice sketching in short, consistent sessions.
- Blend theory with drawing to reinforce both skills.
- Use mock tests to find weak areas and focus on improving them.
- Be flexible—switch activities if something isn’t working.
- Form a small study group for feedback, discussion, and accountability.
- Schedule regular breaks to avoid burnout.
You don’t need fancy equipment or expensive materials. A pencil, paper, and a well-structured plan can take you a long way. Try adopting just one or two of these habits this week. You might be surprised how quickly you notice progress. Good luck with your NIFT prep—study smart, stay consistent, and remember that small, daily steps lead to big results.