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3 Yrs Foundation Course

How to Prepare for IAS Exams After 10+2

Tips and Strategies

If you have just completed your 10+2 and are aspiring to become an IAS officer, then you are in the right place. The Indian Administrative Services (IAS) exam is a highly competitive exam that requires rigorous preparation, dedication, and hard work. It is not unusual for aspirants to feel overwhelmed and confused about where to start and how to prepare for the exam. But worry not, as in this article, we will guide you through the essential tips and strategies to help you prepare for the IAS exams after 10+2. From understanding the exam pattern and syllabus to developing effective study habits and practicing mock tests, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive into the world of IAS preparation and help you pave the way toward your dream career.

Understanding the IAS Exam

The IAS exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to recruit candidates for various administrative services in India. It consists of three stages, namely, the preliminary exam, the mains exam, and the interview. The preliminary exam is a screening test that comprises two papers, General Studies and Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT). The mains exam is a written exam that consists of nine papers, out of which seven are compulsory and two are optional. The interview is the final stage, which assesses the personality, communication skills, and overall suitability of the candidate for administrative services. The IAS exam is known for its vast syllabus, which covers a wide range of subjects, including history, geography, economics, politics, science, and technology. Therefore, it is essential to understand the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly before starting the preparation.

Eligibility Criteria for IAS Exam

Before starting the preparation, it is crucial to check the eligibility criteria for the IAS exam. The candidate must be a citizen of India, and the minimum age limit is 21 years. The maximum age limit varies depending on the category of the candidate, ranging from 32 years for general category candidates to 37 years for OBC candidates and 42 years for SC/ST candidates. The candidate must have completed a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or possess an equivalent qualification. The minimum percentage required in the degree varies from 50% for general category candidates to 45% for OBC candidates and 40% for SC/ST candidates. The candidate can appear for the IAS exam for a maximum of six attempts, with some exceptions for certain categories of candidates. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria before starting the preparation.

Importance of 10+2 in IAS Exam Preparation

The 10+2 stage is a critical stage in IAS exam preparation, as it lays the foundation for the subjects covered in the exam. The subjects taught in 10+2, such as history, geography, economics, and polity, are crucial in the IAS exam syllabus. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to these subjects and develop a strong understanding of the concepts. The 10+2 stage also provides an opportunity to develop effective study habits and time management skills, which are crucial in the IAS exam preparation. Regular practice of writing essays, comprehension passages, and note-making can also help in developing writing and analytical skills, which are essential in the mains exam. Therefore, it is crucial to make the most of the 10+2 stage and prepare well for the IAS exam.

Building a Strong Foundation

To prepare for the IAS exam, it is essential to build a strong foundation in the subjects covered in the exam. This can be achieved by reading standard textbooks and reference books, attending coaching classes, and watching educational videos. It is essential to choose the right study material and resources based on the exam pattern and syllabus. The candidate should focus on understanding the concepts and developing a holistic understanding of the subject. It is also essential to take notes and revise regularly to retain the information. Solving previous year question papers and mock tests can also help in identifying the areas of strengths and weaknesses and improving the performance.

Choosing the Right Optional Subject

The IAS exam offers a wide range of optional subjects, out of which the candidate has to choose one. The optional subject carries a weightage of 500 marks in the mains exam, and therefore, it is essential to choose the right optional subject based on the candidate’s interest, background, and aptitude. The candidate should choose a subject that he/she is comfortable with and has a prior background in. It is also essential to consider the availability of study material and coaching facilities for the chosen optional subject. The candidate should also keep in mind the scoring potential of the optional subject and its relevance in the administrative services.

Creating a Study Plan

To prepare for the IAS exam, it is crucial to create a study plan that covers the entire syllabus and allows sufficient time for revision and practice. The study plan should be realistic, achievable, and flexible, considering the candidate’s strengths, weaknesses, and other commitments. The candidate should allocate sufficient time for each subject and topic, based on the weightage and difficulty level. It is also essential to include breaks, leisure activities, and physical exercise in the study plan to avoid burnout and maintain mental and physical health. The study plan should be reviewed regularly and modified as per the progress and feedback.

Time Management Strategies

Time management is a crucial aspect of IAS exam preparation, as the exam covers a vast syllabus and requires extensive revision and practice. The candidate should prioritize the subjects and topics based on the weightage and difficulty level and allocate time accordingly. It is also essential to develop effective reading and note-making skills to save time and retain the information. The candidate should avoid multitasking and focus on one task at a time to avoid distractions and improve concentration. It is also essential to take regular breaks and avoid overworking to maintain productivity and avoid burnout.

Revision Techniques for IAS Exam

Revision is a crucial aspect of IAS exam preparation, as it helps in retaining the information and improving the performance. The candidate should revise regularly and systematically, considering the weightage and difficulty level of the topics. It is also essential to revise using different techniques, such as mind maps, flashcards, and summaries, to retain the information and avoid boredom. The candidate should also practice writing essays, comprehension passages, and answer writing, as it helps in improving writing and analytical skills.

Tips for Clearing Preliminary and Mains Exam

The preliminary and mains exams require different strategies and approaches, and it is essential to prepare accordingly. For the preliminary exam, the candidate should focus on developing a strong foundation in the subjects covered in the exam and practice solving objective-type questions. The candidate should also focus on improving speed and accuracy by solving previous year question papers and mock tests. For the mains exam, the candidate should focus on developing writing and analytical skills and practice answer writing regularly. The candidate should also focus on improving presentation and language skills and use diagrams, charts, and tables wherever possible.

Importance of Mock Tests

Mock tests are an essential aspect of IAS exam preparation, as they help in identifying the areas of strengths and weaknesses and improving the performance. Mock tests simulate the actual exam environment and help in developing time management and test-taking skills. The candidate should take mock tests regularly and analyze the performance to understand the mistakes and improve the performance. It is also essential to take mock tests from different sources to get a variety of questions and improve the adaptability.

Balancing IAS Exam Preparation and other Activities

IAS exam preparation requires dedication and hard work, but it is essential to maintain a balance between preparation and other activities. The candidate should allocate sufficient time for leisure activities, physical exercise, and social interactions to maintain mental and physical health. It is also essential to avoid burnout and maintain motivation by taking breaks, pursuing hobbies and interests, and setting achievable goals.

Conclusion

Preparing for the IAS exam after 10+2 requires dedication, hard work, and effective strategies. Understanding the exam pattern and syllabus, building a strong foundation, choosing the right optional subject, creating a study plan, managing time effectively, practicing revision techniques, and taking mock tests are some of the essential tips and strategies for IAS exam preparation. It is also essential to maintain a balance between preparation and other activities and avoid burnout and stress. With the right approach and attitude, you can pave the way towards your dream career in the administrative services.

Key Features of the Course

1 – Clarity in theories & Concepts to answer any given question more accurately.

2 – Multiple modes of delivering the same topic so as to ensure conceptual clarity.

3 – Adopt the most advanced technological of audio-videos, pictorial representations so as to build realistic understanding on the subject-matter.

4 – Incredible insights to develop best answers.

5 – Detailed analysis of previous year questions so as to ensure

>Right orientation

>Prioritize the topics

>Helps you to choose what to read and more importantly what not to read

>To approach the main exam with right strategy

6 – Experienced faculty – Retired and In-service IAS/IPS officers.

7 – India’s best quality and highly relevant printed materials.

8 – The more personal, small-group teaching (supervisions) is the most distinctive feature of the classroom system.

9 – High Success rate.

Enroll For 3 Yrs Foundation Course (English Medium Only)

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Foundation Batch starts with 10 Days Workshop - by IAS / PCS/ JUDGES and Our Faculties

What do you Study here?

  • Geography – Economic and Human Geography of India and the World, like Distribution of Key natural resources, Earthquakes, Cyclones and other important phenomena.
  • History – Ancient, Medieval and Modern Indian History and also important world historical events.
  • Economics – Utilization of Very important economic resources for the Growth and Development, Employment creation, Agriculture or Industrial planning, Land Reforms, Energy sector, etc.
  • Constitution and Governance – Understanding of Indian Constitution, Centre – State Government relations, Good Governance concepts, Understanding Indian Judicial System, Electoral system, NGOs, Self-help Groups, Welfare Schemes etc.
  • International Relations – Indian and its neighborhood relations, relations with other important countries, International Institutions like IMF, World Bank, European Union, BRICS, World Trade Organization WTO etc.
  • Science and Technology – Scientific developments in everyday life, Achievements of Indian Scientists, ISRO, NASA achievements, Revolution from Nano-Technology and Bio-Technology, etc.
  • Environmental issues – Environmental conservation, Reducing Environmental Pollution and Degradation etc.
  • Disaster Management – Earthquakes, Tsunamis, Cyclones, Droughts and Effective Control of Natural and Man-made disaster problems.
  • Internal Security issues – Addressing issues of Terrorism, naxalism, Separatism, Communal issues, Security issues at the borders, Money laundering, Cyber Attacks and their preventive measures etc.
  • Ethics and Integrity – Ethics and morals in the society, Human Value system, Lessons from Great leaders, reformers and administrators, Family values, Values driven Educational System, developing good Attitude etc.

Understanding these issues right from early age broadens the thinking about various issues. Every Child can have meaningful Education from Childhood.

Most Prestigious Career Opportunities

Can get the Best and the Most Prestigious career which others can only dream of.
This include IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS and Indian Railways, Indian Postal Service, Indian Forest Service and many more top Central Government Jobs.

> These candidates can be selected for Intelligence Bureau (IB Officers), SSCOfficers etc.

> Apart from this, there are Wide range of State government (Group-1, Group-2 Officers) and Central Government posts which can be cracked by those who prepare from their Childhood.

> Can get into Highest Cadre bank Officers posts like Probationary Officers, or Higher Managerial Officer posts Of Reserve Bank of India and other Well reputed national and global banks.

> Candidates who had prepared for Civil Services are given preference while recruiting for Most of the Top Private Managerial Jobs

Why Preparation Should Start from Intermediate and Degree at IAS NEXT

Many Students after doing B.Tech / M. Tech / M.B.B.S / M.B.A from Top Reputed Colleges like IITs, NITs, or IIMs choose Civil Services as the most prestigious career option.

People who prepare for Civil Services after Degree will have to spend 3 to 4 yrs of time preparing for Civil Services.

This shows that choosing Civil Services as a Career option from Intermediate and Degree will make the students to achieve their Dream Goal at a Very Young Age.

Course Module Details

IAS NEXT FOUNDAITON PROGRAM 2022

Explore the Course Modules in Detail

11 Months [Skill Development Mode]

Month 1 & 2
  1. Basic of Political Thoughts     
  2. Democracy, Socialism and various other Method of Governance
  3.  The Doctor and the Saint, Arundhati Roy (Book)
  4. About some Sociological Caste Systems etc.
  5. Projects on Caste System Practice.
  6. Create Questions
  7. News like Articles
  8. Ground work in society
  9. To search ways & Measures.

       

Month 5 & 6
  1. Book Social Problems in India : Ram Ahuja
  2. Case Studies
  3. Assignment
  4. Maths
  5. Comprehension
  6. Reasoning
  7. Animal Farm, George Orwell (Book)

  • Paragraph Reading & Comprehension Classes.
  •  Understanding of Introduction Body Conclusion.

Books of Dr. Kalam, Sri Gandhi Ji (Hind Swaraj)


Month 3 & 4
  1. Bhagat Singh (The Selected works of Bhagat Singh), S.C. Bose (Books- The Indian Struggle)
  2. Centrality of the Middle Class, Satish Deshpande (Essay)
  3. What benchmark will you create for someone to be called middle class today?
  4. What are the harms of having a falsely marked middle class ?
  5. India since Independence by Bipin Chandra (Finishing the whole book, light reading) (Book)
  6. Assignments, not objective checking facts, but understanding the ideas
  7. Case Studies
  8. Project Work
  9. Issues
  10. Book
  • Untouchables : Narendra Jadhav
  • A Nation in Making : Surendra Nath Banerjea

Month 7 & 8

Month long reading of The Hindu, in detail.

• Read the economy pages and make a list of terms you don’t know. It will be boring in the beginning, don’t leave the practice. Make a notebook of such terms and look for their meanings from Oxford Dictionary of Economics.

• Make notes of all the orders given by the Supreme Court.

• Write summaries of all the “Main Editorials” of The Hindu. (2 small pieces, at the left of the Editorial page)

• Hindu Months

• Maths & Reasoning Continue

Month 8, 9, 10 & 11 – (NCERT)

Month 8
  • Democratic Politics – I (9th Class)
  • Democratic Politics – II (10th Class)

Month 9 &10

  • History – our part – I (6th Class)
  • History – our part – II (7th Class)
  • India & Contemporary World – I (10th Class)
  • India & Contemporary World – II (10th Class)

Month 11

  • RTI

  • Contemporary legal Affairs

For Next 12 Months (G.S Basic/Foundation Program)

Our Basic Programme + Optional (Understanding & practice)

Course Name: G.S Basic/Foundation Programme

History
• Ancient India

• Medieval India

• Modern India

Science
• Elementary science

○ Physics

○ Chemistry

○ Biology

• Special focus on Technology

○ Human Anatomy

○ Computer basics & technology

○ Gene technology

○ Biotechnology

○ Space technology

○ Information technology

Geography
• Physical geography

• Indian Geography

• Mapping

• Human Geography

• Minerals

• Industries

Economics
• Basics of economics

• Indian Economy

•Budget

•Economic survey

Polity
• Indian polity

• Governance

• International Organisations

• Current Affairs

• Government schemes

• UP Special

• Census

• 12 MCQ TEST

• Essay writing classes

• Current issues classes

For Next 12 Months (Advance Program)

Our Basic Programme + Advance Program + Optional

Course Name: Advance Programme
• Daily Current Affairs with Detailed Discussions

• S. Mains – Paper – I

• S. Mains – Paper – II

• S. Mains – Paper – III

• S. Mains – Paper – IV

• Pre Test Series

• Mains Test Series

• Essay writing

• Mock Interview practice + Optional – Classes + Optional Test Series

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