The Judiciary Exam or Judicial Services Examinations, commonly referred to as PCS(J), is an acronym for Provincial Civil Service Judicial Examination.
Stages of Judiciary Exams: The Judicial Services Exams are conducted in three stages.
They are:
- Preliminary Examination: Objective type questions (MCQ)
- Mains Examination: Subjective type question (written answers)
- Personal Interview: Evaluates your personality, prompt knowledge, decision making, etc.
Upon successful qualification, individuals become part of the subordinate judiciary.
Various Indian states administer the Judicial Services Exam, each having its own set of eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and syllabus. Furthermore, the remuneration for the role varies across states. Here are some of the designations:
STATES THAT CONDUCT JUDICIAL SERVICES EXAM
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Assam
- Bihar
- Chhattisgarh
- Goa
- Delhi
- Himachal Pradesh
- Haryana
- Jammu & Kashmir
- Jharkhand
- Karnataka
- Kerala
- Madhya Pradesh
- Maharashtra
- Manipur
- Mizoram
- Nagaland
- Odisha
- Punjab
- Rajasthan
- Sikkim
- Tamil Nadu
- Uttarakhand
- Uttar Pradesh
- West Bengal
How to Study for the Judiciary Exam in 2024
Here are 13 ways to start preparing for judiciary exams in the best possible way.
1. Selecting Preferred States:
When preparing for the PCSJ exam, the initial step is to choose the states you wish to appear for. Each state’s judiciary exam pattern may slightly differ, necessitating a tailored study approach based on your selected states.
2. Reviewing Previous Years’ Question Papers:
An essential step in PCSJ exam preparation is examining the question papers from the past 10 years for the chosen state judiciary exams. This provides insight into how questions are framed, aiding in the development of expectations and targeted preparation.
3. Thorough Study of Bare Acts:
Bare Acts serve as the foundation for most law-related questions in state judiciary exams. Comprehensive understanding of these legal texts is crucial, and candidates are advised to read them repeatedly. Making a habit of daily reading and revision enhances familiarity with these fundamental legal documents.
4. Focus on ‘May’ and ‘Shall’ in Bare Acts:
Paying special attention to the use of ‘may’ and ‘shall’ in bare acts is vital. Understanding the nuanced differences between these terms, especially in key sections, is essential for accurate interpretation and effective exam preparation.
5. Strategic Time Allocation:
Given the extensive nature of bare acts and legal materials, candidates should identify and allocate time wisely. Certain sections of acts may be less frequently asked in exams. Recognizing these and focusing on key chapters ensures efficient use of study time.
6. Identification of Key Topics:
Use discussions with seniors, friends, and teachers to compile a list of crucial sections and chapters within bare acts. Allocating maximum time and effort to these identified areas enhances preparedness for the exam.
7. Familiarity with Landmark Judgments:
Stay updated on landmark judgments and recent case laws, particularly those from the past two years. This knowledge not only aids in the exam but also contributes to the current affairs section, potentially earning additional marks.
8. Avoiding Overwhelming Reference Books:
During the preliminary stage, focus on studying the actual acts rather than delving into extensive reference books like those by M Laxmikanth or JN Pandey. Save these reference books for later stages of preparation and clarification of doubts.
9. Creation of Topic Synopses:
While reading, create concise synopses for each topic to facilitate quick revisions. Bullet points and numbered lists are effective in condensing information for easy reference during last-minute reviews.
10. Utilizing Visual Aids:
Enhance understanding and retention by incorporating charts, diagrams, and graphs into study materials. Visual representation aids in recalling information during the exam.
11. Oral Recapitulation:
Reinforce daily learning by verbally summarizing study materials. Speaking aloud aids memory retention, and self-recapitulation ensures a clear understanding of the day’s progress.
12. Staying Calm and Persistent:
Do not succumb to panic or discouragement. Understand that exam preparation is a gradual process, and persistence is key. Learning at a steady pace with a clear direction is more important than rushing through topics.
13. Regular Revision:
Emphasize daily revision to reinforce acquired knowledge and prevent information loss. Consistent revisiting of previously learned material ensures a strong foundation for the entire syllabus.
14. Balancing Failure and Success:
Acknowledge that both failure and success coexist in any exam journey. If faced with failure, view it as an opportunity for resilience and greater determination. The knowledge gained can open avenues for alternative career paths within the legal field.
15. Prioritizing a Good Life:
Ultimately, prioritize a fulfilling life for yourself and your loved ones. Knowledge acquired during the preparation journey can be channeled into various opportunities, such as opening a coaching center or becoming a law professor, ensuring a meaningful and successful career.
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