Common Mistakes made by working Professional UPSC aspirants

Working professional preparing for the UPSC exam often encounter common mistakes that can hinder their success in this competitive examination. One prevalent error is inadequate time management. Balancing the demands of a full-time job and the extensive UPSC syllabus can be challenging, leading to procrastination and inefficient study routines. Another common mistake is the tendency to neglect current affairs. Given the dynamic nature of the UPSC exam, staying abreast of recent developments is crucial, and professionals often falter by underestimating the importance of staying informed. Additionally, some professionals tend to focus solely on their strengths, ignoring weaker subjects. This approach can be detrimental, as the UPSC exam requires a comprehensive understanding of various subjects. Lastly, over-reliance on coaching materials without self-study is a mistake that professionals often make. While coaching can provide guidance, self-study and critical thinking are essential components of success in the UPSC examination. Recognizing and addressing these common mistakes can significantly enhance the chances of working professionals in achieving success in the UPSC journey.

Multitasking frequently leads to a situation in which we are unable to do anything at the same time it helps to save our time, increase productivity and reduce from getting procrastination. It’s critical that you pick the tasks you wish to multitask with carefully.  Many people, however, excel if they are skilled at playing multiple roles. However, it is not always adaptable. Working people who are interested in becoming IAS officers can do it, but it will be difficult for them to do so while working full-time. We’re here to offer you some advice that will be beneficial to you. 

Lack of Proper Planning  

You should be aware that UPSC takes thousands of students every year, yet only a small percentage of them pass. If you’re working while studying for the UPSC exam, make a strategic plan and timeline for them. When do they have to start? How much time should they set aside after work? What kind of study materials should you use? Etc. Another factor for failing the UPSC IAS exam is a lack of planning. Many students make a subject more difficult for themselves by making it their focal point, and as a result, they do not perform well in other subjects. A few students establish a plan but don’t keep to it, and as a result, they fail to pass this exam. 

Being procrastinated 

In this internet era, it’s easy to get distracted. Sometimes while scrolling YouTube or any other social media, we never realize how much time we spend. That often leads to being distracted easily. Later that becomes your procrastination point.  The dread of failure, of not being able to attain your goals, of being labeled a loser, and of watching your friends settle down while you are still studying in your late twenties should be sufficient motivation to quit wasting time. You may believe you have enough time and attempts, but believe me when I say that after a few attempts, the pressure will start to mount up like crazy. You’ll chastise yourself for not being truthful in the past. Remind yourself why you started in the first place when you’re distracted. Set daily, monthly, and yearly objectives for yourself and make it a habit to achieve them. All you have to do now is hone your willpower.  

Lack of Proper Sleep  

Often working people think they can work more compromising with their sleep cycle. That doesn’t work my friend. If you sleep less than what your body requires, it will create so many problems like feeling lethargic, headaches, blacking out during exams, etc. As a result, instead of studying for certain hours with full focus, you end up doing nothing. Sleep is essential for your body to revive and gear up for your study. According to your body, you should sleep adequately which is required almost 6 to 8 hours.  

Not Managing a proper timetable  

When you want to accomplish something important, you’ll need a schedule. In this instance, obtaining a UPSC Timetable is a must for anyone wishing to enter the Civil Service. Applicants who prepare UPSC exam while doing a full-time job vary who are preparing and giving full time to their preparation. So time management, a proper method, and following a dedicated routine is the most imperative part of your preparation. Know what time is convenient for your study. Maintaining consistency in each passing day will help you in your preparation. Because you know your potential.  

Comparing with others

The UPSC exam which you are preparing, for now, needs strong individuals. Frequently, applicants compare with those who are going to coaching for study, who are giving 24/7 only into preparation, etc. That’s where you should also think about what you are blessed with.  If you find the other person is better in everything then you take inspiration from instead of comparing. You’ll find that if you learn to cherish what you have and appreciate what others have, comparison becomes a source of inspiration and enjoyment rather than melancholy and frustration. You should better work on this part.  

Not knowing how to handle failure 

You must go through ups and downs to obtain it. Motivation will come from day one to test day, with many ideas, concerns, and uncertainties in between, but you must be constant and determined. Do not assume or imagine anything; simply follow your syllabus books and daily study first. Do not be concerned about your rank or whether something will happen or not. It all boils down to your principal focus. You should study as though you were working. Every trip has a curve to it. Nobody is unique. 

Being Pessimistic  

UPSC is a year-long process that is exhausting and difficult. It takes a lot of courage to even consider taking this exam, let alone preparing for it. Every day, the exam will put your perseverance and self-confidence to the test. So, pessimistic thoughts are quite inevitable in this situation. Negative thoughts will stress you out and prevent you from progressing. However, make certain that the environment and the company are both beneficial. More essential, rather than ignoring an issue, confront it if you believe it exists. 

What are the common mistakes in the workplace? 

• Not knowing how to handle failure. 
• Often not caring about the reviews and feedback 
• Multitasking instead of focusing on one task and doing better performance. 
• Too much workload 

What are 5 common mistakes made during a job search? 

• Looking for a job without a proper plan  
• Not having a proper and attractive resume 
• Not utilizing your online presence 
• Not being prepared 
•  Failure to follow up 

What are the biggest career mistakes to avoid? 

• Instead of making your own career decision when you let someone else do it for you.  
•  Permitting yourself to be dissatisfied at work 
• Putting your career over your health and life 
• You may believe that once you choose a field, you are committed to it for the rest of your life. 
• Lack of proper attire  
• Not making Networking 
• Not discussing your career objectives with your boss 
•  Not seeking out a mentor 
• Not requesting a raise 

What are some common mistakes that people make? 

• Running after money
• Ignoring adequate sleep
• Being overly connected
• Not taking proper care of physical and mental health  
• Excessive confidence

FAQs

FAQ: What is a common mistake made by working professionals preparing for UPSC exams?

Answer: One common mistake is inadequate time management. Many working professionals struggle to balance their job responsibilities with UPSC preparation. It’s crucial to create a realistic study schedule, allocating dedicated time for both work and studies. Failure to manage time effectively can lead to burnout and hinder comprehensive exam preparation.

FAQ: How can working professionals avoid the mistake of neglecting optional subjects?

Answer: Neglecting optional subjects is a prevalent error. Working professionals may opt for subjects related to their jobs, assuming it will be easier. However, it’s essential to choose an optional subject based on interest and scoring potential. Neglecting optional subjects can significantly impact overall exam performance, as these subjects carry substantial marks.

FAQ: What is the significance of revision, and why do some professionals overlook it?

Answer: Overlooking the importance of regular revision is a common mistake. Some professionals focus solely on acquiring new information, neglecting to revisit previously studied topics. Regular revision is crucial for retention and reinforcement. Ignoring this aspect may result in forgetting vital information, affecting performance in both prelims and mains.

FAQ: How can working professionals avoid the mistake of isolation during preparation?

Answer: Isolation is a common error made by UPSC aspirants who are working professionals. They may choose to study alone, missing out on valuable insights and collaborative learning. Joining study groups, online forums, or coaching classes can provide a platform for discussion, sharing experiences, and gaining diverse perspectives, enhancing overall understanding of the subjects.

FAQ: Why do some working professionals neglect practicing answer writing, and how can this be rectified?

Answer: Neglecting regular answer writing practice is a significant mistake. Some working professionals focus excessively on reading materials and neglect honing their writing skills. Effective communication of knowledge is vital in UPSC exams. To address this, aspirants should incorporate daily answer writing sessions into their routine, simulating exam conditions to improve their writing speed and clarity.

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