Given that UPSC Civil Services is considered as one of the toughest examinations of our country, the secret to cracking the exam is to design a winning strategy. Developing a good strategy is an art in itself. While most students try to blindly follow the toppers’ or use a preparation technique they learned online, this may not be the best strategy. What you need is a plan of action based on your learning ability and the time you have in hand. If you want to pass the competitive exam, the first step is to develop a master plan that works for you.
UPSC Prelims is the screening test, and it requires a different strategy than UPSC Mains. As thousands of candidates sit for the exam, it becomes increasingly vital to devote time to the right resources to maximise output. The first step, however, is to accurately fill out the application form. Many candidates make mistakes when filling out the application, which costs them a year. The application process starts around February end or March first week. Applicants can register at UPSC Online and submit the application with valid personal details, specifications of which can be found in the official notification.
Strategy to Clear Prelims in the First Attempt
It is critical to understand that each candidate has strengths and weaknesses that must be addressed. As a result, each candidate’s strategy will be distinct. Use the following tactics to your advantage by paying special attention to your individual needs.
- Make a timetable that is suitable for you- Do not set frantic and unrealistic study plans. It will overwhelm you in a matter of weeks and drain all energy for preparing. Make small and achievable targets and take into account your daily schedule. Whether you are a working professional or a college-going student preparing for the exam, determine how much time you can dedicate each day.
- Break down the syllabus into parts- Understand the exam’s requirements and split the material into separate areas. Take the most difficult one first and stick to the syllabus, making sure you don’t go into specifics for one subject while ignoring the others.
- Limit your sources– The UPSC does not seek detailed information, but rather checks for general knowledge and more importantly, analytical abilities in the Prelims. It is recommended to focus on a few books at a time. The NCERTs’ Class 11 or Class 12 books per subject, along with a few good websites are enough for a comprehensive understanding of the subject. More than the number of books, it is important to be thorough with the topics.
- Focus on current affairs- Current affairs is not a distinct topic to be studied, but rather an essential component of the UPSC syllabus. Current events and contemporary issues are, in reality, the most dynamic topics in all subjects that are most essential for the exam. Regularly read one newspaper and one magazine.
- Don’t ignore CSAT- Taking things casually can have serious consequences. People who are new to CSAT should maintain it at the same level as General Studies. However, even those who are at a more advanced stage should take it seriously. At the very least, previous years’ papers should not be overlooked.
- Practise past year’s papers- It helps in understanding the types of questions to be asked as well as identifying the finest source of reading content. An analysis of previous years’ exams aids in putting the syllabus into context by emphasising the areas in which more questions have been asked. It may also be useful in finding patterns in the article if any exist. Sometimes even questions are repeated in the exam.
- Solve mock tests- Don’t wait until you’ve finished the syllabus to begin taking mocks. Take as many mock exams as you can as they will help you cover the sections you were unable to finish and learn your weak points and strengths. It is usually recommended to take 30-35 mock exams before the final exam.
- Revise minimum 3 times- Revision is essential for clearing the UPSC Prelims since what you can retain on the day of the exam determines whether you pass or fail the exam. So, before you take the exam, make sure you go over every source at least three times.
- Time management on the day of the exam- Keep the time limit in mind when practising mocks. Make sure you’d be able to complete the entire exam in the allotted time. Time management is vital for both the GS test and the CSAT paper.
Keep in mind that the most essential thing on the day of the exam is to keep calm and confident. Also, one important thing you should remember is that don’t wait for the UPSC Results to start your mains preparation after the UPSC Prelims. Take a week off and begin your Mains preparation, since results might take up to a month. Many candidates end up wasting their time, discussing the cut-offs. Don’t make that mistake.
Keep in mind that whichever strategy you choose, stick to it and don’t give up. A well-thought-out strategy may work wonders for you in the long run.
