How to Crack UPSC Exam in The First Attempt?
Is this the foremost question on your mind when preparing for the UPSC examinations? You need not be anxious nor worry because you are not alone.
Almost all aspirants have the same question. Always remember, preparation will relieve you from the stress.
Stay prepared and you will not have to worry about the pressure UPSC exams carry with it.
What Is UPSC and Why There Is so Much Ado About It?
UPSC refers to the Union Public Service Commission. It includes the posts of Indian Administrative Services (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS) and Indian Revenue Services (IRS), and other government exams.
UPSC examinations are challenging and competitive. It consists of three stages
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Civil services preliminary examination
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Civil services main examination
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The interview
The difficulty level increases with each stage. The syllabus is vast with no particular subject to study.
The UPSC examination includes a wide range of subjects. Also, another reason UPSC examinations are considered difficult is the statistics of the pass percentage.
According to the report by NDTV for the year 2019 shows that 15,72,977 attempted the civil services examination.
Out of this, the pass percentage shows only 829 students qualified in 2019.While some clear the examinations in a single attempt, others are not so lucky even after 2 or 3 attempts.
Through this article, we endeavour to guide you with some useful tips on how to crack the UPSC exams in the first attempt.
1. Slow and Steady Wins the Race
As the famed moral says slow and steady wins the race, so it applies to UPSC exam preparations too. Start preparing for the examinations at least a year in advance.
Give yourself time. Time on your hands allows you to comprehend the vast syllabus.
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2. Dissect and Bisect
The colossal syllabus of the UPSC exams can be distressing. The best method to overcome this hurdle is to divide the syllabus dissect and bisect.
Divide and arrange the syllabus into smaller portions. Group the portions into theory and aptitude sections. This helps to recognize the demands of the UPSC exam.
3. Set a Time Table
As is the case with any exam, setting a timetable is the most important. When you set a daily study schedule and adhere to it, you have won half the battle. For more information read the article best ways to concentrate on studies.
It is important that you set realistic goals when you set your timetable. Allow yourself good breaks for a bite or two or even a quick neighbourhood stroll.
4. The Newspaper – For Those Who Can Read
The new age of social media has made the newspaper feel old. However, do not neglect the role of the newspaper in cracking the UPSC exams. A number of questions in the UPSC examinations are directly from newspapers.
Maintaining a separate book to note down all the current affairs you have read is also a good practice.
You can divide the current affairs notes into different categories like politics, science, literature, and so on. It becomes easier for quick reference.
5. Debate and Discussion
Indulging in debates and discussions with peers is another excellent tip to crack UPSC exams.
A debate allows you to analyse the other point of view. Discussions on current affairs are very helpful while appearing for interviews.
6. Notes and Points
Make notes and points while you are studying. This helps you while you are revising the syllabus.
Writing notes reinforces what you have studied orally. Also, make notes from newspapers and competitive exam reference material. Making notes aids you in remembering studied material.
Frame your own questions after each portion of the topic. Answer the questions to your satisfaction.
This prepares you to expect any question in the examination. It also ensures that you have not mistakenly left out a topic.
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7. Revise the Syllabus
When you complete the syllabus or a portion of it, it is advisable to revise what you have studied. Revision helps you to remember and recall.
If you have the time, do a second or a third revision too. Revision can never be too harmful. In fact, it will help you be better prepared.
8. Do Not Mock the Mock Exams
Mock UPSC questions available over the internet is one of the best solutions for how to clear UPSC exam in first attempt. Attempting mock examinations, previous year question papers and practice sheets help you prepare better.
It gives you an idea of what type of questions may appear. Here are some websites where you can download free mock question papers. Practice papers and question papers are also available.
https://prepp.in/ias-exam-exam/practice-papers
https://www.chinmayaias.com/mock-question-papers/
9. The Healthy Trinity
While you prepare for the UPSC examinations you must pamper your body at the same time. The proper, collective functioning of your body is what is going to help you write your examination finally.
Keeping your health in check is essential at all times. The healthy trinity covers the following aspects for a fit body.
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Good Sleep
Scientific research and statistics show that you need at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night.
A sound comfortable sleep restores all the senses and rejuvenates the body. Make certain you get the right amount of sleep.
Also, at the same time, be sure not to oversleep. The best bridge between two days is a good night’s sleep.
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A Nutritious Diet
A wholesome breakfast, a nourishing lunch, a nutritious snack and a healthy dinner are the four pillars of a perfect diet.
A well-balanced diet ensures the intake of the right food in the right proportions. A healthy body equals an active brain.
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Exercise
Ensuring a fit body while preparing for the UPSC exams is inevitable. Exercise not only has a positive impact on your body but also on your mind, attitude and mood.
Keep the right mood while you prepare for the exams. A lethargic body will work detrimental to your performance.
10. Spare the Panic Button
Preparing for the UPSC examinations requires dedication and concentration. At times it can be overwhelming and stressful.
The key is to not panic. Pressing the panic button is a vicious circle difficult to exit from. Panic leads to anxiety which leads to fear and in turn leads to more panic.
Such a situation is harmful and damaging to you and your hard work. What you have already studied will also go in vain. Keep calm and sparkle on.
11. Never Say Never
With a rigorous study schedule, you are bound to get exhausted during the course of preparing for the examinations. Do not lose hope.
Never say never because limits, like fears, are often just illusions. Your hectic program preparing for these exams can be demanding and nerve-racking. However, it is best to think positively and never despair.
12. Hitting the Bull’s Eye
Once you have your schedule set, there is nothing that can stop you. The question- “how to clear UPSC exam in the first attempt?”, no longer has a place.
You have now made way for “I can clear the UPSC exam in the first attempt.”
Prepare well and think positively because positive thoughts breed positive results.
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