UPSC Civil Service Exam is undoubtedly one of the most challenging examinations in the country. To succeed in the IAS exam, having a well-structured study schedule is imperative. While some aspirants dedicate extensive hours of 15 to 16 per day to their preparation, others may find success with 6 to 7 hours of daily study. Regardless of the preferred study duration, an organized UPSC preparation time table proves to be highly beneficial for all prospective Civil Services applicants.

Daily Time Table for UPSC Preparation

The main element required for success in the IAS Exam is time management and having the appropriate timetable for UPSC preparation. The UPSC Exam is divided into three parts: the IAS Interview, the UPSC Main Exam, and the UPSC Prelims. Despite being integrated into all three stages, the preparatory plan takes a totally distinct approach. It takes a full year of consistent, productive effort to prepare for the UPSC Exam. An applicant should be familiar with the UPSC Syllabus before creating a timetable for their UPSC preparation.

This facilitates the division of topics and time allocation. The UPSC preparation schedule should be created after taking the educational level, strong and weak subject areas, and individual interests into account.

Benefits of a Time Table to Study for UPSC Preparation

• A structured schedule as your guiding compass, particularly during moments of uncertainty amidst the abundance of UPSC books and study materials.
• A well-structured study schedule enables you to conquer the vast UPSC syllabus within the designated timeframe. By outlining a work schedule from the start, you gain a clear understanding of the time available, allowing you to distribute your studies effectively. This approach ensures a balanced and consistent IAS preparation journey, preventing last-minute panic as the exam date approaches.
• It helps you beat stress. With all planned and ready, you can avoid stress. This goes a long way in your being able to perform to the best of your abilities. Also, when you are better prepared you will execute better on the D-day.
• By charting out an individual UPSC study time table, you can have a customized approach to different subjects as per your strengths and weaknesses.
• You will be able to retain more information when you study according to a study timetable since it is not a random study and your brain is better focused.
• Working according to a study time table for UPSC exam also increases your productivity. Since your studies are streamlined, confusion doesn’t prevail and your efficiency improves.

What is required of you to make and follow a daily time table for UPSC preparation?

1. HONESTY

To achieve the IAS dream, honesty with oneself is paramount. This path is not for the faint-hearted; it demands dedication and resilience. Just like the thorns that accompany the rose, one must be prepared to face challenges along the way. If you possess the determination to work diligently, then craft a well-thought-out plan and tirelessly strive until every box is checked. Be honest with yourself as you draft and faithfully follow a daily routine for IAS preparation without fail. Success awaits those who persist.

2. SERIOUSNESS

Approaching your IAS dreams and preparation demands utmost seriousness. Treat it with the respect it deserves, avoiding any notion of taking it lightly or as a casual endeavor. Time is a valuable resource, and wasting it on a half-hearted attempt is unwise. Avoid the “let’s see what happens” attitude and understand that success as an IAS officer isn’t a matter of luck, but rather the result of your unwavering work and relentless efforts. Embrace a mindset of dedication and hard work to realize your aspirations.

3. DISCIPLINE

Creating a timetable is not enough; it must be followed with utmost discipline. The remarkable efficiency of the army can be attributed to their strict adherence to time and unwavering discipline. Similarly, if you aspire to crack the UPSC civil services exam, cultivating discipline is imperative. This trait not only paves the way to clearing the IAS exam but also serves as a valuable asset for your future endeavors in life. Embrace discipline wholeheartedly, and witness its transformative impact on your journey towards success.

4. PERSEVERANCE

Perseverance is the unwavering persistence and determination to achieve something, even in the face of difficulty. Embrace a well-structured timetable and be resolute in following it meticulously. Let your determination be unwavering, and success will be within your reach.

5. GOAL-SETTING

Integrate your IAS study timetable with clear short and long-term goals. These concrete objectives will serve as guiding lights on your journey, empowering you to achieve your IAS aspirations more effectively.

6. ENJOY THE PROCESS

Renowned American inventor, Thomas Edison, once remarked, “I never did a day’s work in my life. It was all fun.” Despite holding an astonishing 1093 U.S. patents and 2332 patents worldwide, Edison found immense joy in his pursuits, making it feel like a pleasurable endeavor rather than toil. Similarly, when you start relishing the process, even your UPSC preparation becomes enjoyable. Embrace the learning, take pride in the knowledge gained, and shift your perspective to see studying as a delightful pursuit rather than a mere chore.

7. CONCENTRATION

Concentration is the cornerstone of accomplishing anything. When you sit down to study, ensure unwavering focus on the task at hand. Even with the best plan in place, success remains elusive without steadfast concentration and dedication to your mission.

8. MAINTAIN YOUR HEALTH

Achieving the aspirations outlined in your study schedule hinges on maintaining excellent physical and mental health. Indeed, good health acts as the initial stepping stone to reaching great heights. Prioritize a balanced diet, ample rest, regular exercise, and a stress-free lifestyle to lay a strong foundation for success.

9. BE AN EARLY RISER

It is true that each body has its own cycle and some might feel they work more at night. But according to experts, our brain functions most and is at its sharpest in the wee hours of the morning. Be an early riser if you are serious about cracking the mother of all exams in the country – the IAS exams. We have given below a study timetable for IAS preparation. Remember these are solely for your guidance. A final study timetable/plan/schedule has to be made by each of the individual tailored to his/her need. You can use our timetable for reference and tweak it suitably.

Daily time table for UPSC Preparation

The toppers study timetable for working professionals, would, of course, be different from the above routine. There have been many toppers in the previous years who have become toppers even being working professionals. Therefore, it depends upon the aspirants how efficiently they plan and manage time.

Read more: Strategies for Effective UPSC Preparation for Working Professionals