Is it possible to prepare for UPSC exams while I am working full-time?...
For many, passing the UPSC exam being the world's toughest test seems an impossible feat, but attempting the IAS Exam while working full-time is an entirely different story. If you want to take the IAS Exam while working full-time, the following tips and tactics will undoubtedly help you pass the UPSC Civil Services Exam.
I was also working while my second attempt at UPSC and was well aware of the difficulties. But take my word for it, being disciplined and consistent is the key to cracking UPSC Exam no matter in what circumstances you are.
Many working professionals are studying for the IAS Exam, and some have even succeeded in passing the world's most difficult recruiting test by pure hard work and perseverance.
But, as the saying goes, hard effort without a strategy is like driving a Ferrari without a steering wheel; thus, if you want to take the IAS test while working, your plan will be just as vital as your hard work.
To assist you on your difficult path, I’ve compiled a list of essential tips and strategies for passing the IAS Exam that I myself adopted while working full time.
Step 0: Set goals and devote time effectively: Before starting your preparation, it is important to prepare yourself mentally and physically for the examination and the journey ahead.
Step 1: Acquaint yourself with the exam syllabus, exam pattern, exam timeline, and Find the Detailed syllabus from EduRev App. They provide a complete detailed syllabus and other information regarding the exam.
Step 2: The NCERT books are considered as the basic reading books to build the base of the Civil Services Examination. It covers all topics which are important and gives us crystal clear conceptual clarity.
I referred to the EduRev Guide on how to study NCERT, which helped me a lot to prepare a strategy according to my timeline.
Step 3: Read Newspaper & Practice Current Affairs: Current Affairs play a significant role in UPSC Civil Services Exam preparation as the dynamic questions appear in all three stages of the examination- UPSC Prelims, UPSC Mains, and Final Interview as well.
Step 4: Revise Repeatedly: It is not how much you know that matters but what you write on papers that the examiner can evaluate. So, make writing an answer a regular feature of your IAS preparation.
Step 5: Attempt Mock-Tests Frequently for UPSC/IAS: Mock Tests which are scientifically designed in the exact pattern of actual UPSC examination helps in mastering the art of elimination techniques and other hacks to clear the examination. The more you solve Mock tests the more these hacks get ingrained into your muscle memory
Try to join test series like the one at EduRev which you can give at any time you want and not an external schedule so that you can practice / attempt whenever you want. You can attempt Mock Tests regularly from the course UPSC CSE Prelims Mock Test Series. Attempt more and more tests and ace your preparation!
Don’t Forget, Consistency and discipline will take you places in the journey of clearing the UPSC CSE Examination.
The first thing that everyone needs to understand is that with Civil services, each person’s starting point, motivation, and journey is different. Please don’t compare yourself to anyone else.
You have to stop looking for a “perfect strategy” because there is none. Someone might be really bad in Geography, what purpose would it solve if that person follows someone and over-reads Art and Culture? While you listen to anyone, don't ever forget the uniqueness of your journey. And have faith in that uniqueness.