Ace UPSC Prelims 2023: Steer clear of these 5 pitfalls- Sriram Srirangam
The Civil Service Examination (CSE) is a comprehensive exam administered by the Union Public Service Commission for the recruitment of civil servants.
The Civil Service Examination (CSE) is a comprehensive exam administered by the Union Public Service Commission for the recruitment of civil servants. The examination consists of two stages - the Preliminary and Main Examination. The Preliminary stage is an elimination round. It is a multiple choice type of questions and passing it is a must to go to the Main Examination stage. Cracking the UPSC Prelims is a daunting task for first-timers. It requires a lot of hard work and dedication. You need to have a good strategy, be well-prepared, and have a positive attitude towards the exam. However, certain mistakes that first-timers make hinder their success in the Prelims. These mistakes are avoidable. This article will discuss five common mistakes first-timers should avoid while attempting the UPSC Prelims 2023.
Not Reading the Syllabus Thoroughly
The UPSC Prelims syllabus is vast and covers a variety of topics. So it is crucial to be aware of the various topics and sub-topics that are included in it. Aspirants must read the syllabus thoroughly and understand how all the topics are weighted. It will help you strategise your preparation and focus on essential topics, as not knowing the syllabus can lead to wasting time and energy on topics not included in the syllabus.
Not Knowing Which Part of the Syllabus to Emphasize
While the syllabus indeed is oceanic, the part of the syllabus that actually matters to the examination-the part from where most questions appear is clear from the previous years` question papers. One must read these questions well.
Q: Â How many hours of study are required for IAS?
Q: Â Which is the easiest optional subject in UPSC syllabus?
Q: Â Is IAS Exam Difficult?
The Indian Administrative Services (IAS) exam is considered one of the toughest exams in India. The exam has a low pass rate and a rigorous selection process. The syllabus is vast and varied, making it difficult for even the most experienced candidates to prepare.
Here are some reasons why the IAS exam is considered difficult:
- The IAS syllabus is vast and varied, covering a variety of topics.
- The competition is high.
- The selection process is rigorous.
- The pass rate is very low.
- The number of vacancies is limited.
It may take more than one attempt and multiple years to get into the service.
Every year, Lacs of people take the IAS prelims exam. Only about 25% of those who take the prelims exam move onto the IAS mains. The success rate of candidates appearing for the exam is less than 1%.
Not Setting a Time-Table
Setting a timetable is an essential element of your preparation phase. It helps you to make the best use of the time available and plan your study schedule accordingly. You should allocate time for each subject and stick to the plan to ensure that you have enough time to cover all the topics.Daily and weekly timestamping is essential. That is, how much time is to be allotted to which part of the syllabus.
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Not Practicing Previous Years' Papers
Substantial preparation by means of answering MCQs is necessary. The best way is to see the previous years/ questions. Also, state public service commission examination questions must be practiced. Similarly, other exams like UGC NET questions are at times very relevant and revealing. However, it should be done selectively. These questions are set by professors and civil servants and so are very helpful. It will help you understand the exam pattern and the types of questions you can expect in the actual exam. By solving these papers, candidates can gain valuable insights into the types of questions asked in the examination. It will also help you assess your preparation level and improve.
Aspirants can also stay motivated and focused during their preparation..Dont enroll for mock tests that lack quality.
Not Utilizing All Resources
The UPSC Prelims is a competitive exam, and it is vital to use all available resources to prepare effectively. There are various books, online courses, and online forums available that can help you in your preparation. So, make use of these resources to get a better understanding of the topics and to stay abreast of any updates. While making use of the online and offline resources, make sure that you do not acquire erroneous information.
Q: Â What is the procedure to prepare the IAS prelims result?
The IAS prelims result is declared based on the marks secured in the General Studies Paper-I only. The General Studies-Paper II (CSAT) is qualifying only and the candidates need to score 33% marks in the General Studies Paper-II. The candidates who do not score 33 per cent marks in the General Studies paper -II (CSAT), such candidates do not clear the IAS prelims exam. The marks secured in the IAS prelims are not counted for the final merit list.
The IAS 2024 result is expected by April 15, 2024. The IAS interviews will end on April 9, 2024.
Q: Â Can I clear UPSC prelim exam in the 6 months?
Q: Â How to choose optional subject for the exam UPSC. Mathematics is a good optional subject for this exam?
Q: Â Which are the best subject options for UPSC exam?
Q: Â Is IAS a Colonial Legacy?
The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) is a legacy of the British Raj. The IAS was originally called the Indian Civil Service (ICS). The ICS was often called the "steel frame" of British rule in India. After India's independence, the name was changed to IAS, but the substance of the service remained the same. The IAS continues to have a significant impact on India's present and future.
The first IAS officer in India was Satyendranath Tagore. He was appointed to the Bombay Presidency in 1864 and served for 30 years. The British equivalent of the IAS is Her Majesty's Civil Service, also known as the Home Civil Service. But, After independance, the IAS has changed its nature from supressor to facilitator.
Final words
Cracking the UPSC Prelims is a challenging task. It requires rigorous preparation and the ability to stay focused and motivated consistently. Thus, first-timers must be aware of the above-listed common mistakes so that they can crack the UPSC 2023 and pursue their dream of becoming a civil servant.
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All the IAS toppers and mentors suggest that a consistent and quality study of 8-10 hours over a period of over one year is required in IAS preparation. The number of hours does not matter, it is the quality of study that matters. The candidates should read, understand, learn extensively. Moreover, the candidates should think the solution of the ongoing Socio-Economic problems of the Common man and devise a sustainable solution to those problems.
The Study of hours will also depend on the affinity of the candidate towards a subject, their previous knowledge and the stage of exam for which they are preparing.