Skipping and Coming Back to Questions in Paper II

Skipping and coming back to questions during Paper II of the UPSC exam is allowed and can be a strategic approach to maximize your chances of scoring well. Here's a detailed explanation of how you can skip questions and come back to them later:

1. Time Management Strategy:
- Skimming Through Questions: Start by skimming through all the questions in Paper II. This will give you an idea of the difficulty level and help you prioritize which questions to attempt first.
- Easy Questions First: Begin with the questions that you find relatively easier. This will help you build momentum and boost your confidence.
- Time Allocation: Allocate a specific time limit for each question based on its complexity. If you find a question too challenging, it may be wise to skip it temporarily and move on to the next one.

2. Marking Questions for Review:
- Flagging Questions: If you come across a question that you want to skip for the time being, use the "mark for review" feature available on the answer sheet. This will help you identify the questions you need to revisit later.
- Note Down Question Numbers: Jot down the question numbers of the ones you skip on a rough sheet. This will make it easier for you to locate them when you decide to go back.

3. Returning to Skipped Questions:
- Utilize Remaining Time: Once you have attempted all the questions you find manageable, and if time permits, go back to the questions you marked for review.
- Reviewing Skipped Questions: Read the skipped questions carefully and try to recall any relevant information or concepts. Even if you don't know the exact answer, you may be able to eliminate some options or make an educated guess.

4. Managing Time Effectively:
- Keep an Eye on the Clock: Throughout the exam, keep track of the time remaining. Allocate a specific time frame to each section or question, considering the total time available.
- Prioritize: If you still have a significant number of unanswered questions, prioritize based on your strengths and the weightage of the questions. Focus on questions that carry more marks and attempt them first.

By following these strategies, you can effectively skip and come back to questions during Paper II of the UPSC exam. Remember to manage your time wisely and maintain a calm and focused mindset. Good luck with your preparations and the exam!