To effectively allocate focused time for practicing different types of questions, such as short answers, essays, and critical analyses, the following strategies can be employed:

1. Prioritize and Schedule
- Identify the types of questions you need to practice and determine their significance in the exam.
- Prioritize the types of questions based on their weightage and allocate more time to the ones carrying higher marks.
- Create a study schedule that dedicates specific time slots for practicing each type of question.

2. Set Clear Goals
- Clearly define your goals for each type of question. For example, aim to complete a certain number of short answer questions, write a specific number of essays, or analyze a set number of critical questions within a given time frame.
- Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

3. Create Practice Sets
- Gather a variety of questions from reliable sources, such as textbooks, past exam papers, or reputable online platforms like EduRev.
- Organize the questions based on their type, difficulty level, or topic.
- Create practice sets for each type of question. For instance, compile a set of short answer questions, another set of essay topics, and a set of critical analysis questions.

4. Time Allocation
- Allocate specific time slots for each type of question during your study schedule.
- Dedicate shorter time intervals, such as 10-15 minutes, for practicing short answer questions.
- Set aside longer time periods, like 30-60 minutes, for essay writing or critical analysis.

5. Rotate and Mix
- Avoid practicing the same type of question for an extended period as it may lead to monotony and decreased focus.
- Rotate between different types of questions to keep your brain engaged and maintain interest.
- Mix up the difficulty levels to challenge yourself and enhance your problem-solving abilities.

6. Review and Analyze
- After completing each practice session, review your answers and analyze your performance.
- Identify your strengths and weaknesses in each question type.
- Focus on areas that require improvement and allocate more time to practice those specific types of questions.

By following these strategies, you can effectively allocate focused time for practicing different types of questions, allowing for a well-rounded preparation strategy and increasing your chances of success in the UPSC exam. Remember to stay consistent, manage your time effectively, and continuously assess your progress to make necessary adjustments in your study plan.