The UPSC Civil Services exam is among the most prestigious and challenging exams in the entire world. More than 8 lakh candidates apply each year, but only a few hundred of them pass the exam. Its extensive syllabus and dynamic methodology make it even harder. Everything you need to know about preparation tips for UPSC exam and realising your dream of working in government will be covered in this article.
Strategies for Cracking UPSC Exam
Have the fundamentals right
Preliminary, main, and personal interviews are the three stages of the Civil Services Examination. Graduation from any Indian university that is regarded as reputable is the required minimum level of education. For students in the general category, the maximum number of attempts is six, and the age range is 21 to 32 (relaxed in accordance with government regulations).
Analysing every aspect of IAS preparation, from the exam format and syllabus to previous years’ test questions, is a crucial step of preparation tips for UPSC exam before making this choice. It is not guaranteed that the candidate will succeed in one attempt due to its highly unpredictable nature, and this process frequently becomes sluggish as a result of repeated failures.
Speaking with seniors, mentors, and those who have studied for the CSE will also give you a general understanding of the test, which will aid you in adopting an effective strategy and in planning and carrying out your strategy appropriately.
Perform with the proper approach
Making the right choices at the right times will determine your exam success. The right strategy and direction are crucial in the selection process. Your chances of being selected in the IAS examination will be determined by your study plan for UPSC exam preparation, which is like a make-or-break factor.
- Syllabus
Understanding the UPSC CSE syllabus in its entirety is the first and most important step. Candidates should memorise the entire curriculum. Understanding what to read and what not to read will be made easier by the syllabus’s nature and scope being made clear. Keeping a close eye on the syllabus is essential because the questions in the exam are always within the syllabus.
- Reading NCERTs
Your top priority as a beginner UPSC candidate should be to finish the NCERTs first. You can improve your fundamental knowledge and comprehension of a variety of issues pertaining to various subjects by using NCERTs. Your UPSC preparation is built upon NCERTs which are the best books for UPSC exam preparation.
- Reading Everyday Newspaper
One of the most important IAS preparation advice for beginners is to read the newspaper, which is like the Bible, Koran, and Geeta. To gain a very basic understanding of what is happening on a daily basis around the world, one should read at least one newspaper every day through online resources for UPSC exam preparation. By connecting these subjects in their answer writing, one can continually increase their knowledge. Regular newspaper reading gives you an advantage in both papers because current affairs questions in the preliminary exams are weighted more heavily each year.
- Questions from Prior Years
Candidates must carefully read through the previous year question papers for UPSC exam preparation to gain a clear understanding of the format of the test. It will assist in gaining a clearer understanding of the types of questions asked and locating the top preparation resources.
- Mock tests should be practised
Mock test practise is crucial for prelims, and daily practise writing answers is crucial for mains. To regularly practise the entire test series and cover the entire syllabus, one should sign up for a reputable test series. These practise exams aid in both exam preparation and time management instruction.
- Pick your optional carefully
It is crucial to pick the right optional subject if you want to pass this test. Your educational background, familiarity with and interest in the subject, the syllabus, the availability of quality resources, and coaching classes for UPSC exam preparation should all be taken into consideration when selecting your optional.
- Success depends on discipline
Success heavily depends on your ability to maintain discipline with your studies and schedule. Following rules and time management for UPSC exam preparation is like taking homoeopathic medicine. While it will take time to see results and you will experience pain and annoyance along the way, as time goes on, you will notice various changes taking place inside of you. Gradually, these modifications will become an essential part of who you are.
- Obtain knowledge that is not available in books
Despite being a very expensive asset, experience is essential to your UPSC preparation plan. Along with reading books, you should also watch educational programmes like RSTV debates, videos on interview preparation for UPSC exam, visit a rural area, learn how basic appliances operate, and engage in as much social interaction as you can with people from various socio-cultural backgrounds in order to broaden your experience. Investigate the issues you face daily. Your responses will stand out as a result.
- First and foremost, health
Finally, but most importantly, you need to take good care of your health. IAS exam is a test of mental agility. Your physical and mental well-being are equally important. Consider adopting a regular exercise schedule that includes activities like yoga, sports, and even meditation.
CONCLUSION
You can undoubtedly get ready for the UPSC at home. But for a successful outcome, a strong study plan and an effective strategy are required. You can succeed in the UPSC exam by studying at home, as many IAS officers have.