The UPSC conducts the Civil Services Examination (CSE) annually to select candidates for various civil service positions in the Indian government, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS). To prepare for the CSE, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the exam pattern and syllabus, as well as a solid study plan that allows you to cover all the necessary material in a systematic and efficient manner, we are sharing some “Tips to Preparing for UPSC”.
Note: We are sharing here series of posts on Strategy to Prepare for UPSC CSE Exam/Success Series to achieve the India’s most Prestigious Job and to serve the nation, this is Part I of this Series.
Here are Tips to Preparing for UPSC that might be helpful as you prepare for the UPSC CSE:
Tips to Preparing for UPSC
1. Introduce yourself with the latest exam pattern and syllabus:
The CSE consists of three stages:
- Preliminary Exam (Objective Test and Pass to second Stage)
- Main Exam (written test)
- Interview or Personality Test
The preliminary exam is a screening test and consists of two papers:
- General Studies Paper I
- General Studies Paper II
General Studies Paper I tests your knowledge of current events, history, geography, economics, and general science.
General Studies Paper II tests your aptitude and skills in areas such as comprehension, problem-solving, and decision-making.
The main exam consists of nine papers, including two qualifying papers (one on Indian languages and one on English), two general studies papers, two optional subject papers, and three essay papers. Make sure you understand the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly so that you know what to expect and can focus your studies accordingly.
2. Develop a study plan:
With so much material to cover, it’s important to have a well-organized study plan in place. Determine how much time you have available to study and break your study schedule down into manageable chunks. Make sure to allocate enough time for each subject and leave some time for revision as well. It’s also a good idea to start your studies early and pace yourself, rather than trying to cram everything in at the last minute.
3. Use small number of study materials and multiple revision of the same:
There are numerous books and online resources available to help you prepare for the CSE, but there are some standard . In addition to using traditional study materials such as textbooks and mock test papers, consider using online resources such as google, YouTube, some important government websites (will update in our next article) and revision notes to supplement your studies.
4. Practice PYQs and mock tests:
Practice is an important part of preparing for any exam. Make sure to practice Previous Year Questions and sample questions and also take mock tests to get a feel for the exam hall and to identify any weak areas that need more attention.
5. Stay up to date with current events:
The CSE tests your knowledge of current events and issues, so it’s important to stay up-to-date about what’s happening in the nation and world (will post how to cover current affairs). Make sure to regularly read the news and stay updated on current affairs.
