IITJEE is inadequate for testing real-life problem solving skills

Indeed, IITJEE is one of the toughest exams around. However, its importance is stretched beyond the point of absurdity. IITJEE tests only what I call rapid puzzle-solving skills. Real-life problem-solving requires a lot of additional skills that cannot be tested in an entrance exam like IITJEE.

Unfortunately, HR managers of companies coming for campus placements further uphold the mythical superiority of rapid puzzle-solving skills by conducting written aptitude tests instead of evaluating real-world problem-solving abilities. This is mainly because most companies in India that come for campus placements offer low-level jobs that do not require advanced skills.

As a consequence, real-world problem-solving skills are severely underappreciated. In fact, super-achievers like Dhirubhai Ambani and Gautam Adani are looked upon with suspicion. The net result: low-level innovation from India. The good thing is that the situation is gradually improving. Many companies in India now offer jobs exclusively to PhD students as they require hard skills.

If you have cleared IITJEE, you have many reasons to be proud of yourself. Nevertheless, do not assume that IITJEE is an end in itself; you still have a lot to learn. If you have not cleared IITJEE, do not be disheartened at all. You will get plenty of opportunities in life to prove yourself.