Cracking the UPSC exam, one of the most challenging competitive exams in India requires a combination of dedication, strategic planning, and disciplined execution. Firstly, a comprehensive understanding of the UPSC syllabus is essential. Divide the vast syllabus into manageable sections and prioritize them based on weightage and personal proficiency. Regular and focused study sessions are crucial, and candidates should create a realistic timetable to cover all subjects. Additionally, reading newspapers and staying updated on current affairs is imperative for success in the General Studies paper. Practicing answer writing and time management is essential, as the exam demands both knowledge and the ability to express it effectively. Mock tests and previous years’ question papers should be an integral part of the preparation to simulate exam conditions and identify areas for improvement. Building a conceptual understanding rather than rote memorization is key, as the UPSC exam emphasizes analytical thinking. Lastly, maintaining physical and mental well-being through regular breaks, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle contributes to sustained focus during the rigorous preparation period. Overall, a holistic approach combining thorough content mastery, consistent practice, and a resilient mindset is essential for cracking the UPSC exam.
The main challenge for every candidate is to keep the pace of the exam on the right track until they reach their goal. We’ll cover the process and the tools you’ll need to pass this exam in this post.
What is the best strategy for UPSC preparation?
Here’s the strategy to get through UPSC:
1. Beginning
Begin by studying the NCERT (Class 6–12) and master the basics. Re-read all the topics at least four or five times.
2. Advanced level
After you’ve completed NCERT, go into the books for the advanced level. This is the full list of books:
- Polity: M Laxmikant
- Art and Culture: Nitin Singhania
- Ancient History: RS Sharma or Tamil Nadu NCERT
- Medieval History: Satish Chandra
- Modern History: Rajiv Ahir
- Economy: Ramesh Singh and Sanjeev Verma
- Physical Geography: GC Leong
- Indian Geography: NCERT and Majid Hussain
- Atlas is an absolute must to have for Geography (Orient the Black Swan in World Atlas and Oxford for Indian Atlas)
- Environment and Ecology: Shankar IAS
- Ethics: Lexicon
- Current Affairs: The Hindu, PIB, PRS, RSTV
3. Self-study or coaching?
There is a misconception that coaching is essential to pass UPSC. It is also possible to pass the test by studying on your own. However, coaching can help you focus. But when you have the right tools and support, you can pass this test without any coaching.
4. Large vs. small cities
Another myth that says you have to be prepared in large cities. However, I strongly suggest not wasting your money and time doing so.
You can take this test from any part of the world, provided that there is access to the right internet-based sources.
5. Discussion is the key.
It is recommended to form regular groups to help with UPSC preparation. They should also actively discuss topics related to different topics. Peer learning is a great way to resolve your everyday problems.
6. Smart study
Learn what you need to know and don’t waste your time reading irrelevant material. Stay on the course.
7. Avoid negativity.
The UPSC is an endurance race! It is important to start slowly instead of running fast. Be aware that there will be moments when you may feel demotivated, but don’t give up hope and remain calm.
8. This exam could make you an intelligent person.
UPSC is an important exam, but it’s not as crucial as your mental and physical health.
Keep in mind that less than one percent of applicants will be selected, and you might or may not be part of that percent, but the lessons you learn from the process will eventually help you to do great things in life.
9. Practice!
It is important to practice. The main exam is by far the most crucial portion of the test, and you will need to answer the questions in 150 to 250 words. Make sure you practice writing answers within the time limit.
10. Make sure you revise regularly and control your time.
Continue to revise as many times as possible. Many will also advise you to work for 16 hours per day to pass UPSC.
It’s not the case and could lead to burnout, which can hinder your performance. Eight hours of focused studying every day is sufficient to pass the exam.
The most crucial factors that differentiate success from failure in UPSC preparation are having faith in oneself and maintaining motivation.
Be confident in your abilities and you’ll succeed on this test. As Henry Ford once said, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you are right”. Best of luck!
What is the most important thing to crack UPSC?
Time needed:
Experts say that an aggressive approach to the preparation of between 10 and 12 months is essential. The vast majority of Indians (21-32 years old) want to be IAS officers, but the competition is so fierce that only 5% of this large number will be accepted. Aspirants must devise an effective plan of action and determine an ideal amount of time to execute that plan.
A candidate must also realize that preparing for the civil service exam requires qualitative, not quantitative, preparation. It’s about reaching your short-term goals. It is recommended that you focus on two subjects per day.
Many of the top students have begun preparing for examinations right from their school years since the majority of the questions come mostly from the Class 6-12 standard textbooks. Thus, making notes and committing between 10 and 12 hours before the exam for a whole year is thought to be sufficient.
You should outline the syllabus and plan your study schedule.
If you’ve taken a biology course, you will probably be familiar with the term “catabolism”. It is a process by which the original components break down into secondary products.
It is possible to do the same using the IAS syllabus. Find out what subjects you are proficient in as well as the subjects you’d require assistance with. Try it on all topics and then work on the ones you are good at.
Objectifying the curriculum
The majority of IAS hopefuls are dismayed by the vast majority of the IAS syllabus. The syllabus is massive. If you can break the subjects into smaller sections, then difficult jobs will become much simpler for you.
Enjoy your preparation.
There is no doubt that UPSC prep is a long procedure. Once you’ve started enjoying the process, any unnecessary anxiety and stress associated with your preparation will go away. Aspirants to the civil services exam often give up their passions, but keeping your interests side-by-side can make the examination more enjoyable.
Read our BLOGS.
FAQs
1. Q: What is the first step in preparing for the UPSC exam?
A: The initial step is to thoroughly understand the UPSC exam pattern and syllabus. Familiarize yourself with the three stages of the exam – Prelims, Mains, and Interview. This foundational knowledge will guide your study plan and strategy.
2. Q: How important is current affairs in UPSC preparation?
A: Current affairs play a pivotal role in UPSC preparation. Stay updated with national and international news, government policies, and socio-economic developments. Reading newspapers, magazines, and online sources regularly is crucial for success, as questions in all stages often integrate current affairs.
3. Q: How should one approach optional subject selection?
A: Choose your optional subject wisely based on interest, availability of study material, and scoring trends. Conduct thorough research, analyze the syllabus, and consider your academic background. A well-chosen optional subject can significantly boost your overall score.
4. Q: How to manage time effectively during the UPSC exam?
A: Time management is critical. Practice solving previous years’ question papers within the allotted time frames. Develop a realistic study schedule and stick to it. Divide your time wisely among different subjects and revisions. Regular mock tests under exam conditions will improve your time-management skills.
5. Q: How important is answer writing practice for the main exam?
A: Answer writing is a skill that requires practice. Regularly practice writing answers to essay-type questions, and develop a coherent and structured writing style. Time yourself during mock exams to simulate exam conditions. This practice will enhance your ability to express ideas concisely and improve your overall performance in the Mains exam.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here
For Daily Updates and Study Material:
Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS
- 1. Learn through Videos – here
- 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
- 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
- 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here
