Brief Summary
This video features Raj Shamani in conversation with Prashant Kirad, an educator and YouTuber, discussing the Indian education system, strategies for students, and Prashant's journey in the EdTech world. They touch upon topics like cracking board exams, the role of EdTech platforms, the importance of visualization, and the challenges within the education sector.
- Cracking exams with focused effort and motivation.
- The importance of visualization and goal setting.
- Challenges and realities of the EdTech and coaching industry.
Introduction
Raj Shamani introduces Prashant Kirad, highlighting his expertise in education and EdTech. The conversation promises insights into the CBSE exam system, strategies for students, and the realities of the EdTech world.
Questions in board exams
Prashant shares tips for students facing CBSE exams, suggesting they identify the most important 20% of the syllabus that constitutes 80% of the exam. He advises students to consult teachers, friends, or previous year's question papers to identify these key areas and focus their studies accordingly.
Are internal exams tough?
Prashant and Raj discuss whether internal school exams are tougher than CBSE exams. Prashant recalls his school days when teachers seemed stricter during internal exams. They acknowledge that teachers might intentionally make internal exams challenging to prepare students for the board exams, but this can sometimes demotivate students.
How CBSE set the question paper
Prashant explains how CBSE sets question papers, noting that they focus on essential topics relevant for higher studies. The board identifies topics crucial for students in classes 11-12 and college, ensuring those areas are covered in the exams.
Steps to become a topper
Prashant outlines the steps to becoming a topper, emphasizing the importance of finding motivation. He suggests identifying a clear reason "why" one wants to excel. He also stresses the need for a "right path," which involves choosing the right study materials and environment. Prashant highlights the significance of staying focused and avoiding distractions.
Leaker of CBSE
Prashant recounts an incident during his early EdTech days when he accurately predicted several topics for the Class 10 board exam. Students circulated clips of his predictions, which matched the actual exam questions, leading to his overnight fame. He clarifies that this wasn't about leaking papers but about analyzing previous years' papers and identifying recurring themes.
Exercise to boost memory
Prashant suggests exercises to improve brain coordination and thinking skills rather than directly boosting memory. He recommends trying new things, such as brushing teeth with the non-dominant hand, to stimulate the brain. Learning new skills and subjects also helps in enhancing cognitive abilities.
How to relax the mind
Prashant advises a technique to relax the mind by dividing overthinking into two categories: things one can control (A) and things one cannot (B). Writing down these thoughts and then "cutting" them helps in mentally eliminating problems that are beyond one's control.
How to eliminate distractions
Prashant discusses how to manage distractions by recognizing and addressing regrets associated with them. He suggests setting deadlines to limit distractions and avoid the regret of wasting time. He emphasizes that the problem isn't just the distraction but the subsequent regret that leads to further time wastage.
Exercise to improve brain power
Prashant reiterates the importance of trying new things and staying physically fit to improve brain power. He explains the connection between the body and mind, stating that physical exercise enhances mental clarity. He also stresses the significance of keeping commitments to oneself to train the mind.
Importance of a good diet
Prashant highlights the role of diet in maintaining overall health and brain function, especially during exam preparation. He advises against unhealthy habits like late-night snacking, which can disrupt focus and energy levels.
Power of visualization
Prashant emphasizes the power of visualization in achieving goals. He suggests writing down goals and visualizing their achievement daily. He shares his personal experience of writing down his exam goals and reviewing them before sleeping. Raj adds that visualizing an "ultra-successful" image can guide decision-making and actions.
How will the mind become sharp?
Prashant talks about how to sharpen the mind and increase willpower. He shares that understanding how the brain works can be shocking but insightful. He emphasizes the importance of making decisions promptly to maintain control over oneself.
Id, Ego, and Superego
Prashant discusses Sigmund Freud's theory of Id, Ego, and Superego to explain how the brain functions. He explains that the ego represents rational logic, the superego represents societal norms, and the id represents instant pleasure. He emphasizes strengthening one's rational logic to make sound decisions and avoid immediate gratification.
Prashant’s dream
Prashant shares his dream of simplifying education using technology to create a next-level education system in India. He aims to reach a large number of students and integrate technology effectively into the learning process.
Business model
Prashant explains his business model, which includes free content on YouTube and paid online courses on his platform, Next Prep. Students who enjoy his teaching on YouTube can opt for the paid courses for structured learning, notes, and online tests.
Offers by Edtech platforms
Prashant recounts being approached by EdTech platforms with offers to acquire his channel for substantial amounts, around ₹15-20 crore. These offers involved acquiring his channel and employing him as an educator with a high monthly salary, sometimes up to ₹1 crore.
Why are Edtech platforms not working?
Prashant discusses why many EdTech platforms are struggling despite investing heavily in teachers. He points out that teachers often break their commitments, which is a significant issue. He also mentions that teachers sometimes switch platforms for better offers, leading to instability.
Dark side of the coaching world
Prashant reveals the dark side of the coaching world, where teachers and toppers are often poached. He also mentions negative PR tactics used against competitors, such as circulating clips of teachers making mistakes to tarnish their image.
Top teachers in India
Raj and Prashant discuss top teachers in India, including Alakh Pandey (Physics Wallah) and Vikas Divyakirti (UPSC). They acknowledge Khan Sir's popularity but focus on Alakh Pandey and Vikas Divyakirti from a business perspective.
Learnings from Alakh Pandey sir
Prashant shares his learnings from Alakh Pandey, emphasizing the importance of keeping intentions right and not running after money. He learned that if intentions are correct, money will follow.
Learnings from Vikas Divyakirti sir
Prashant talks about Vikas Divyakirti's humble and down-to-earth nature, which creates a strong bond with students.
Earnings of Prashant Kirad
Raj inquires about Prashant's earnings and revenue streams. Prashant mentions that brand deals and YouTube contribute significantly to his income. He also earns from book sales, with his books being bestsellers in their categories.
Controversy with Traders
Prashant recalls a controversy when he stated that he could buy a dream car four times over, leading to a clash with the trading community. He defends his statement by highlighting the importance of education and the high percentage of traders who lose money. He cites data from Zerodha indicating that over 90% of traders don't make money.
Problems in the Indian education system
Prashant identifies key problems in the Indian education system, including old and boring textbooks that lack practical application. He also points out that the focus is solely on exams, neglecting skill development. He mentions that students are forced to study all subjects regardless of their interests.
Thank you for listening
Raj thanks Prashant for the insightful conversation and wishes him success with his upcoming product.
Behind The Scenes
A brief behind-the-scenes segment showing Raj and Prashant interacting off-camera.
Outro
Raj Shamani concludes the episode, reminding viewers to subscribe, comment with guest suggestions, and share the episode.
