Ranchi student Shaurya Pratap Shahdeo has emerged as the state topper from Jharkhand in the highly competitive Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2024. Securing an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 22, Shahdeo's success story is a blend of inspiration, strategic planning, and disciplined effort.
The Path to a Top CLAT Rank
Shaurya achieved a score of 108 out of 120 in the examination, the results for which were declared last Wednesday. A student of Delhi Public School (DPS) Ranchi, where he is currently studying Arts, Shaurya has a strong academic record, having scored 97.6% in his Class X board examinations.
He revealed that his journey into law was inspired from a young age by his grandfather, the late Justice LPN Shahdeo. This early inspiration shaped his career path decisively. Despite his stellar performance in Class X, which could have led him to choose Science or Commerce, Shaurya opted for the Arts stream. He made this choice strategically to ensure he had ample spare time to dedicate to his CLAT preparation alongside his school curriculum.
Strategy for CLAT Success: Coaching, Material, and Practice
Outlining the key factors behind his top rank, Shaurya emphasized the importance of consistency in studies. He dedicated himself to a rigorous 18-month preparation period. A crucial element of his strategy was enrolling in a coaching institute. He stated that the institute provided structured guidance and specialized study materials that were otherwise difficult to obtain independently.
However, coaching was just one part of the equation. Shaurya stressed that consistent practice with previous years' question papers was vital. He practiced solving these papers for nearly a year to build the speed and accuracy required to complete the lengthy CLAT question paper within the strict examination time limit.
Balancing Studies and Leisure
While maintaining a disciplined routine of studying for three hours daily over the 18 months, Shaurya also believes in a balanced approach. He ensured he took time out to unwind by watching movies and interacting with friends during his preparation phase. This balance, he suggests, helped him stay refreshed and focused.
Riding high on his CLAT success, Shaurya Pratap Shahdeo now has his sights set on securing admission to one of India's most prestigious law schools. He is aiming for a berth at the National Law School of Indian Universities (NLSIU) in Bengaluru, a dream destination for countless law aspirants across the country.
