Using Mock Tests to Practice Selective Answering and Prioritize Questions during the Exam


Mock tests are an essential tool for exam preparation, especially for competitive exams like the UPSC. They simulate the actual exam environment and help in assessing one's knowledge, time management, and decision-making abilities. By using mock tests effectively, you can practice selective answering and prioritize questions during the exam.


- Understand the exam pattern, marking scheme, and time duration.
- Analyze the weightage given to different sections or topics.
- Identify the areas where you are strong and weak.


- Allocate specific time slots for each section or topic.
- Practice solving mock tests within the stipulated time.
- Keep track of time while attempting each question during the mock test.


- Skim through the entire question paper before starting.
- Identify the questions/topics you are confident about.
- Start with the questions you are comfortable answering.
- Avoid spending too much time on difficult questions initially.
- Mark the challenging questions and come back to them later.


- Prioritize questions based on their weightage and your proficiency.
- Give more time to questions carrying higher marks.
- Allocate time for each section based on its importance.
- Focus on answering questions that can fetch you maximum marks.


- Take mock tests regularly to improve your speed and accuracy.
- Analyze your performance after each mock test.
- Identify areas where you made mistakes or faced difficulties.
- Work on improving your weak areas by studying and practicing more.


- After attempting a mock test, review your answers.
- Analyze the questions you answered incorrectly or left unanswered.
- Understand the concepts or topics behind those questions.
- Study and revise those topics to avoid similar mistakes in the future.


Mock tests are an invaluable tool for UPSC exam preparation. By using them effectively, you can develop the skills of selective answering and prioritizing questions during the actual exam. Regular practice, time management, and continuous learning are key to achieving success in the UPSC exam.