Should I aim to complete the entire previous years' paper before evaluating my performance?


Completing previous years' papers is a common practice among students preparing for various competitive exams, including the UPSC. However, the question arises whether one should aim to complete the entire set of previous years' papers before evaluating their performance. In this response, we will explore this topic in detail.


Completing previous years' papers offers several benefits, such as:

1. Familiarity with Exam Pattern: Previous years' papers provide insights into the exam pattern, question types, and the overall structure of the exam. By solving these papers, you become familiar with the format and gain a better understanding of what to expect on the actual exam day.

2. Time Management: Solving previous years' papers helps you develop effective time management skills. The UPSC exam is known for its rigorous time constraints, and practicing with previous years' papers allows you to gauge your speed and accuracy, enabling you to allocate time wisely during the actual exam.

3. Identifying Knowledge Gaps: Completing previous years' papers helps you identify areas where you may have knowledge gaps or weak understanding. By reviewing the answers and solutions, you can pinpoint the topics that require further study and revision.


While completing previous years' papers is crucial, evaluating your performance is equally important. Here's why:

1. Tracking Progress: Evaluation allows you to track your progress over time. By analyzing your performance in each paper, you can identify areas of improvement and measure your growth in terms of accuracy, speed, and overall score.

2. Identifying Weaknesses: Evaluation helps you identify specific weaknesses or areas where you consistently make mistakes. This feedback is valuable as it allows you to focus your efforts on improving those areas and minimizing errors in the future.

3. Modifying Study Plan: Based on the evaluation of your performance, you can modify your study plan and prioritize topics or subjects that require more attention. This targeted approach enhances your overall preparation strategy and increases your chances of success.


In conclusion, while completing the entire set of previous years' papers is beneficial, evaluating your performance is equally crucial. By combining both practices, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the exam pattern, identify knowledge gaps, track progress, and modify your study plan accordingly. Remember to utilize EduRev's resources to access previous years' papers and evaluate your performance effectively. Good luck with your UPSC preparation!