UPSC Civil Services Examination is one of the most prestigious competitive exams in India. Every year thousands of aspirants get into the preparation for UPSC to join services like IAS, IPS or IFS. It might seem tough at the beginning of the journey but with a realistic UPSC study plan, it can be manageable.
UPSC Exam: A Complete Guide
Before you start collecting books or enrolling for a UPSC course, get to know about the UPSC exam pattern and selection process. The examination has three stages. UPSC Prelims, UPSC Mains and Personality Test.
UPSC Prelims examination has objective type questions whereas UPSC Mains examination has detailed written answers. Candidates who qualify in both the stages are called for the Personality Test. Knowing the UPSC Syllabus for each stage helps you not study unnecessary topics.
How to Begin UPSC from Scratch?
Beginner’s UPSC preparation should start with basic NCERT books. UPSC CSE syllabus is on the basis of subjects like History, Geography, Indian Polity, Economics, Environment and Science.
Create a practical UPSC daily timetable instead of studying for twelve hours from day one. Study regularly, make short notes of UPSC and revise them weekly. Previous year question papers, UPSC mock test and regular revision should also be a part of your UPSC preparation strategy.
Once your basics are clear, select an optional subject of your choice, availability of study material and comfort with its syllabus. There is no one optional subject which is best for all for UPSC.
Current Affairs & Answer Writing
UPSC current affairs for Prelims as well as Mains are important. 4. Read a good newspaper, keep yourself updated on important national and international happenings and make point notes on current affairs. Don’t try to get information from too many sources.
Start practicing UPSC answer writing in a phased manner. Try to write clear answers with a short introduction, relevant points and practical conclusion. A good UPSC test series can help you understand your weak points and work on your time management.
Coaching or Self-learning?
It is entirely possible to crack UPSC preparation without coaching. If you have good resources, discipline and plan, self study for UPSC is best. Students who want a structured approach can opt for UPSC coaching or UPSC online classes.
Before you select the best UPSC coaching or course, check the faculty, study material, fees and student support. Expensive classes don’t mean success. Your consistency is more important.
Verify Your Eligibility
Candidates should check the UPSC eligibility criteria including UPSC age limit, educational qualification and number of attempts carefully. The dates of the UPSC application form, notification, admit card, and result are tentative. So, check through the official UPSC website.
You do not study everything together for UPSC preparation. Begin with the syllabus, pick the best books for UPSC preparation, practice on a daily basis and improve gradually. A steady and calm approach can take you far beyond an unrealistic routine.
