Strategy & Tips For UPSC Preparation With Job

UPSC preparation with job is not difficult nowadays because there are various resources from which a full-time working aspirant can crack the UPSC Exam with a good rank. The UPSC Online Coaching, Live video classes and other study materials are a great help in UPSC preparation for working professionals which can be utilized effectively to achieve their desired goals.

In this article, we will look at some of the important tips, a detailed schedule, and also the pros & cons of managing the UPSC Preparation with Job. Further, we will discuss some of the examples of notable people who have cracked this exam along with a job in the past. This will be very beneficial for working professionals pursuing their UPSC preparation from the zero level, so keep reading this article till the end.

Here are ten elements, according to Sudhanshu Mishra Sir , that can help you build a good strategy:

1. Wake up early

The IAS officer’s first advice to working professionals is to wake up early; for instance, at 5 am. “You must dedicate 5-6 hours every day to studies and at least 13 hours on weekends,” says Sudhanshu Sir.

2. Utilise work breaks

She tells aspirants to finish reading newspapers and current affairs during office breaks.

She adds, “Living near the workplace can save travel time. And by commuting via public transport, you can study while commuting as well. It’s a good time to listen to audio and watch videos.”

3. Limit sources

The IAS officer advises aspirants to focus on an in-depth study from limited sources instead of increasing the sources of study. “This is the most critical aspect, as you are short of time,”.

4. Buy notes

“Making notes is crucial for preparation. But you can also get some notes online or at the market. This will help you save time, and allow you to use that time for high-impact study,” says Sudhanshu Sir.

5. Split leaves

The IAS officer advises working professionals to use leaves judiciously.

“Take leaves close to your exams and try to take a longer break after clearing prelims. Now, depending on the number of leaves you can take, split them in this manner — two weeks before prelims and one month before mains.”

6. Manage stress

Sudhanshu Sir shares that working professionals mostly endure job stress along with preparation. So her advice is to leave work problems at the office itself. “This will allow you to remain focused when you prepare for the exam,” she adds.

7. Avoid socialising

The IAS officer asks aspirants to remove distractions — hanging out with office colleagues after work, attending social events and movies — as time is critical for those in preparation.

8. Drown negativity

One of the many challenges for working professionals could be people doubting their abilities. “Keep going and prove them wrong. Cut off ties with such negative people, and talk to a mentor who can push you and motivate you,” advises Sudhanshu Sir.

9. Avoid complacency

She shares that as working professionals already have a backup — their current job — they should not let complacency set in, at any time, adding “Sustained motivation is most critical in clearing the CSE.”

10. Maintain focus

The IAS officer says, “Once you get selected for any service, resign the same day. With the selection in place, you have the security of getting a private job at any time. This will help focus completely on the next attempt.”

“It must also be noted that work experience helps score well during the UPSC interview. It is not a negative aspect,” highlights Sudhanshu Sir. “It is definitely difficult, but if you have the commitment you can make it happen!”