Cracking the UPSC exam is a challenging yet rewarding journey. UPSC Preparation demands dedication, a strategic approach, and consistent effort. If you’re dreaming of donning the coveted IAS uniform, starting to prepare for UPSC at home can be a smart choice as a beginner. Remember, cracking the UPSC is not just about studying hard, but smart. But, what is the right approach to dive into the vast syllabus of UPSC exam and how do you strategize your self study for maximum results?
In this article, let us break down the UPSC Preparation process into ten manageable steps that will help you achieve your dream of becoming an IAS Officer!
Is It Possible to Prepare for UPSC Exam at Home?
Several UPSC aspirants are confused about whether they can prepare for the UPSC exam at home and whether it is possible to crack the Civil Services without joining any coaching institute. The UPSC Exam is one of the toughest examinations in the country for which lakhs of students appear each year, making it highly competitive and challenging to crack. Preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination from home is indeed a challenging task, yet very much possible in today’s age with access to unlimited online materials and Free UPSC Study Notes. A key requirement for aspirants who plan to start preparing UPSC at home is discipline and dedication. You should make an appropriate schedule, incorporating proper study hours, current affairs updates and self-evaluations.
However, solely depending on virtual mode may limit practical learning through classroom interactions. So, the ideal approach to prepare for the UPSC Exam should combine home-study with short-term classroom programs or online crash courses, that will help aspirants to get a clear picture of where they stand in terms of their preparation with respect to other aspirants.
Remember, whether you choose to prepare for the UPSC at home or by joining a coaching program, the key to success lies solely in YOUR consistency and perseverance during the preparation phase!
10 Steps to Prepare for UPSC Exam at Home
Preparing for the UPSC at home is challenging, but not impossible! Several UPSC toppers have a history of cracking their way to become an IAS without joining any coaching institutes. You can definitely rely on self-study to prepare for the UPSC exam at home. Follow the steps given below to get 10 steps for UPSC preparation at home that are indispensable to your exam strategy –
Step 1 – Create a Realistic Study Schedule & Stick to It!
Design a weekly/monthly schedule dividing time for each subject. Stick to it religiously. Schedule 3-4 hours daily for self-study and current affairs. However, do not overplan and keep your study schedule super realistic! Include ample time for revision, breaks and free time to get back to studies more recharged,
Step 2 – Focus on Fundamentals
Start with NCERT textbooks to gain a strong foundation. Read thoroughly and understand core concepts & theories well before moving to other books. Make it a point to build understanding of basic concepts, as they will help you tackle the toughest of questions smoothly.
Step 3 – Learn from newspapers
Set aside 1 hour daily for reading newspapers like The Hindu, Indian Express etc. Mark important articles, events, committees etc. Refer to them regularly. Write down what you learnt from your reading and go back to it later. Cross link your reading with the syllabus topics.
Step 4 – Take short notes
Short notes are important for last-minute revision. Note down key points, formulae, case studies etc from books. Maintain different files for each subject. Try to establish interlinks with what you have already studied.
Step 5 – Emphasis on GS papers
General Studies papers carry the most weightage. Study history, geography, polity, environment carefully. Focus on developing a broader perspective and put new information within larger contexts.
Step 6 – Practice answer-writing
Choose previous year questions and time yourself while writing answers. This will help assess your speed and presentation skills. Practice writing answers on a weekly basis.
Step 7 – Crack mock tests
Appear for online/offline full-length tests every month. Analyze answers to improve upon weak areas and time management.
Step 8 – Select optional judiciously
It is best to choose an optional subject for UPSC intelligently based on your qualifications, interest, availability of resources to fare well in it.
Step 9 – Stay updated with current affairs
Set reminders for reading monthly magazines like Kurukshetra, Yojana daily. Stay up to date with current affairs, daily news analysis. Read Editorials to get perspectives on burning socio-political issues.
Step 10 – Stick to your preparation even during exams
Don’t stop self-studying even when exams are near. Keep revising regularly through the preparation period.
To sum it up, remember that cracking the UPSC isn’t just about intelligence, but about perseverance and smart work. It is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay consistent with self studying but do not hesitate to seek guidance of peers or mentors when needed. With dedication and the right strategy, you can transform your UPSC dream into a reality.
