GPSC Bible : 15 Steps to Clear GPSC (Gujarat)

Table of Contents
1. How was this guide made for GPSC Aspirants?
2. Why did EduRev make this guide for GPSC Aspirants?
3. Step 0: Before You Begin Your GPSC Preparation
4. Step 1: Understand the GPSC Syllabus
5. Step 2: Analyze Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
6. Step 3: Build Your Foundation with NCERTs
7. Step 4: Read Newspapers & Prepare Current Affairs for GPSC
8. Step 5: Standard Reference Books for GPSC Preparation
9. Step 6: Subject-Wise Preparation Strategy for GPSC
10. Step 7: How to Organize Notes for GPSC Preparation
11. Step 8: Regularly Attempt Practice Tests for GPSC
12. Step 9: Revise Regularly for GPSC
13. Step 10: Take Mock Tests Regularly for GPSC Preparation
14. Step 11: GPSC Mains Preparation at Home
15. Step 12: Answer Writing Preparation for GPSC Mains
16. Step 13: Essay Writing for GPSC
17. Step 14: How to Prepare for the GPSC Interview?
18. Step 15: Believe in Yourself During the GPSC Exam
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How was this guide made for GPSC Aspirants?

This guide has been curated by EduRev experts, with inputs and insights gathered from interviews with top-performing students and GPSC rank holders, such as:

• Ankit Gohil (GPSC Class 1-2 2018-19 - Rank 1)
• Adarsh Rajendra Baser (GPSC Class 1-2 2020-21 - Rank 1)
• Other successful toppers from recent cycles who have shared their strategies

Special thanks to toppers like Ankit Gohil (Rank 1) and Adarsh Rajendra Baser (Rank 1) for sharing their answer sheets and valuable insights that have shaped this comprehensive preparation guide for all GPSC aspirants.

Why did EduRev make this guide for GPSC Aspirants?

• We wanted to answer the question "How to Prepare for GPSC Class 1-2" once and for all in the best / perfect way possible for all the GPSC Aspirants.
• Since students waste a large amount of time, effort, and money while preparing for GPSC just because of a lack of the right direction. We believe it will be very very valuable for every GPSC aspirant.
• This guide was made to teach in a guided way so that you can clear your GPSC exam with the least amount of time, effort, and money spent, by just making sure you Study What Matters. We did the hard work of building strategy for your GPSC Examination, so that you can achieve your dream of becoming a Deputy Collector / DySP / Mamlatdar.

Let's have a look at the full-proof STEP by STEP preparation strategy for preparing for the GPSC Class 1-2 Examination at home.

Step-by-Step Preparation Strategy for GPSC Class 1-2

Step 0: Before You Begin Your GPSC Preparation

1. Set Goals and Devote Time Effectively:
Before diving into your preparation, it's important to prepare yourself mentally and physically for the long and demanding journey. Start by setting clear, achievable goals and allocate your time wisely based on your personal situation. Balancing study time with other commitments will require thoughtful planning.

2. Analyze and Chart a Plan:
Create a balanced plan that considers both your study schedule and other commitments, such as work or personal obligations. Use online resources and technology to support your preparation, ensuring you have access to up-to-date materials and study tools.

3. Make a Timetable:
Establish a structured timetable with realistic goals to ensure that you stay on track with your syllabus. A well-constructed routine is key to managing your time effectively and avoiding last-minute stress.

4. Focus on Micro-Planning:
Break down your preparation into smaller, manageable chunks. Having daily, weekly, and monthly plans will help you stay focused and ensure steady progress throughout the preparation period.

5. Stay Motivated:
Remember to keep your long-term goal in mind: becoming a GPSC Class 1-2 officer. This will help you stay motivated and focused on the task at hand, even when the journey feels challenging.

Step 1: Understand the GPSC Syllabus

The syllabus is your guide throughout the preparation process. By thoroughly understanding it, you can:

• Identify the most relevant study materials.
• Prioritize subjects based on their weightage and importance.

Key Actions:

• Start by reading the official GPSC notification to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern (Prelims: GS Paper I for merit, CSAT Paper II qualifying; Mains: Gujarati, English, Essay, GS1, GS2, GS3; no optional subjects; Interview), syllabus, timeline, and eligibility criteria.
• Break down the syllabus into manageable sections to ensure a systematic approach to your preparation.
• Use the syllabus as a checklist to monitor your progress regularly.

Step 2: Analyze Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Once you're through the syllabus, pick up the previous year's papers and skim through them to get an understanding of what is actually asked in the GPSC Exam. You can also analyse what sections are important for you and what are not in your GPSC Syllabus.

Key Actions:

• Dedicate 2 to 4 weeks to thoroughly review PYQs to understand the type of questions typically asked.
• Focus on analyzing topic-wise questions from the last 10 years to identify key areas that are frequently tested.
• Use these questions periodically as a tool for self-assessment, helping you refine your study approach.

Almost all the top rankers whom we spoke to spent over 2-3 weeks to just analyse the syllabus and previous year question papers but this helped them in saving a considerable amount of time through their preparation journey and they were successful in getting ranks as well.

Step 3: Build Your Foundation with NCERTs

NCERT books are essential to building a solid foundation for your GPSC preparation. They offer clear concepts and concise information across a variety of subjects.

Recommended NCERT Reading:

• History: Class 6 to 12. You can find all of them here
• Geography: Class 6 to 12, with "Fundamentals of Physical Geography" being especially helpful. You can find all of them here
• Polity: Class 9 to 12, especially "Indian Constitution at Work".  You can find all of them here
• Economics: Class 9 to 12. You can find all of them here
• Science and Tech: Class 6 to 10 (sufficient for the GPSC syllabus) . You can find all of them here

• Must Read Old & New NCERTs: You can go through must-read old and new NCERTs by referring to the course here and can get all the most recommended old NCERT books like World history NCERT books for ancient, medieval history & NCERT Fine Art Books at one place.

Tips for Using NCERTs:

• Begin by reading through the material to get a general understanding.
• After the first read, go back and take detailed notes on important points.
• Relate what you've learned from the NCERTs to other advanced study materials for a deeper understanding.
• Use NCERT summaries during your revision phase to save time and ensure that you recall key concepts quickly.

Step 4: Read Newspapers & Prepare Current Affairs for GPSC

Current Affairs hold great importance in the GPSC examination as they are integrated into all stages - Prelims, Mains, and Interview. Questions often have direct or indirect links to recent events, making it essential for candidates to stay updated with daily news.

1. Read Newspapers Daily: Focus on newspapers like The Hindu or The Indian Express. Pay special attention to Gujarat-related news, government schemes, and developments. We also cover on a daily basis what to read in the newspaper. You can find the same here. 

2. Beyond Newspapers: Reading newspapers alone is not enough. General Knowledge (GK) questions also form a significant part of the GPSC exam, so supplement your preparation with reliable resources.

3. Weekly & Monthly Revision: Go through weekly and monthly current affairs compilations to revise and remember key events.  You can find weekly current affairs & monthly current affairs on EduRev.

4. Practice Current Affairs-Based Questions: Attempt mock tests and quizzes on current affairs to evaluate your preparation. Regular practice helps identify gaps and improve your speed and accuracy (you can attempt tests based on Current affairs on EduRev here)

5. Government Sources: Government websites like the PIB, PRS and national television programs featured on Rajya Sabha TV are very helpful. 
   Read daily PIB Summary from the course of PIB PIB (Press Information Bureau) Summary on EduRev.
   Gist of Rajya Sabha TV programs for UPSC is another recommended source.

Step 5: Standard Reference Books for GPSC Preparation

After completing NCERTs, it's essential to move to advanced books for an in-depth understanding. These books have been consistently recommended by toppers and experts for GPSC preparation.

Recommended Books:

• Modern History: Spectrum's A Brief History of Modern India
• Polity: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth
• Geography: Certificate Physical and Human Geography by G.C. Leong, along with an Atlas
• Art & Culture: Indian Art & Culture by Nitin Singhania
• Economics: NCERTs and Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh
• Environment & Ecology: Environment by Shankar IAS
• Science & Technology: Focus on current developments through newspapers and magazines.
• State Specific:  Gujarat ni Asmita by relevant books
  Gujarat Economy Survey

1. Start by reading summaries of these books to get an overview.
2. Once familiar, read the full texts and highlight key points.
3. Revise these books multiple times and make concise notes for quick revision.

Tips from Toppers:

• Begin with NCERTs to strengthen your basics.
• Only then move to standard books to add depth to your knowledge.
• Focus on revising these books regularly instead of collecting too many resources.
• Practice answer-writing using the knowledge gained from these books to ensure better retention.

For Gujarat-specific content, refer to Geography (including Physical Geography of Gujarat, Agriculture and Allied sectors of Gujarat, Human Geography of Gujarat, Economic Geography of Gujarat), History (including Ancient History of Gujarat), Polity, Culture, and Economy.

Step 6: Subject-Wise Preparation Strategy for GPSC

A focused subject-wise strategy can help you approach the syllabus systematically. Prioritize topics based on the GPSC exam pattern and PYQs analysis.

How We Approach Each Subject:

1. Analyze the type of questions asked in the past years and focus on important topics.
2. Provide summaries, revision notes, and topic-wise tests for each subject.
3. Include NCERT-based notes and tests to strengthen fundamentals.

1. CSAT (Prelims Paper II - Qualifying)

• Focus on comprehension, reasoning, quantitative aptitude, data interpretation.
• Practice from standard books like RS Aggarwal for Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning.
• Aim for 33% qualifying marks; practice daily to build speed and accuracy for this paper.

2. Gujarati & English (Qualifying in Mains)

• Grammar, comprehension, essay practice for both languages.

3. History & Culture

• Cover Ancient, Medieval, Modern History thoroughly.
• Refer to NCERTs, Spectrum for Modern History, and standard sources for Art & Culture.
• Focus specifically on Gujarat's history: Harappan sites (Lothal, Dholavira), Solanki dynasty, Sultanate, freedom struggle in Gujarat (Mahatma Gandhi's role). Refer to History, Ancient History of Gujarat, and Culture.

4. Polity

• Focus on Indian Constitution, governance, and political systems.
• Use NCERTs and M. Laxmikanth as primary resources.
• Focus on Gujarat-specific polity. Refer to Polity.

5. Geography

• Study physical and human geography through NCERTs and G.C. Leong.
• Practice mapping skills and refer to an Atlas for better clarity.
• Focus on Gujarat's Rann of Kutch, Gir forest, rivers (Narmada, Tapi), ports, industries. Refer to Geography, Physical Geography of Gujarat, Agriculture and Allied sectors of Gujarat, Human Geography of Gujarat, and Economic Geography of Gujarat.

6. Economy

• Cover basic concepts with NCERTs and delve deeper with Ramesh Singh's Indian Economy.
• Focus on Gujarat's economy, industries (textiles, diamonds), ports, Vibrant Gujarat. Refer to Economy.

7. Science & Technology

• Focus on basics from NCERTs (Class 6-10) and current developments.

Step 7: How to Organize Notes for GPSC Preparation

Organizing your notes effectively is key to performing well in the GPSC exam. It saves time and makes it easier to revise when the exam is approaching.

1. Notes for Prelims & Mains: Prepare the same set of notes for both Prelims and Mains, but focus more on topics relevant for Prelims during your initial preparation. As you move closer to Mains, you can emphasize the more detailed aspects of the syllabus.

2. Create Dedicated Folders for Each Subject: For every subject you study, keep all the relevant materials-notes, printed articles, or any online resources-in one folder. This will make sure you don't waste time searching for materials when it's time to revise.

3. Leverage EduRev's Organized Resources: EduRev offers well-organized courses, so you don't have to scramble for books and materials. Everything you need is already neatly arranged in courses, making your preparation more structured and less stressful.

4. Revise from Notes, Not Books: As the exam approaches, make your notes the primary source for revision. Avoid going back to books every time. You will save time and reinforce the key concepts in your mind by revisiting your notes regularly.

5. Access Notes on the Go: One major advantage of using EduRev is that you can access your notes from anywhere, whether you're at home or traveling. This gives you flexibility and ensures that you can study during any free time.

Step 8: Regularly Attempt Practice Tests for GPSC

Instead of waiting until you have "finished the syllabus" to start taking practice tests, it's important to begin early. Regular mock tests help improve your exam strategy, reduce stress, and increase your chances of success.

Why Practice Tests Matter:

• Enhance Learning and Retention: The more you practice, the better you remember the concepts. For every subject or topic you cover, take a test immediately after to test your understanding.
• Check Your Understanding: Taking topic-wise tests after studying each section allows you to assess your understanding. You won't know where you're lacking until you test yourself.
• Monitor Your Progress: Use mock tests to track your performance. EduRev provides All India Rankings (AIR) after each test, helping you compare your performance with others.

Test Series & Analysis:

• Detailed Test Analysis: After each mock test, thoroughly analyze your mistakes. Understand where you went wrong, spot any patterns in your errors, and work on improving those areas.
• Mock Tests Simulate Real Exam: EduRev offers mock tests that closely resemble the GPSC exam format. This gives you a chance to practice time management, question-solving techniques, and staying calm under exam conditions.

Step 9: Revise Regularly for GPSC

Due to the vast syllabus, it's easy to forget topics you studied months ago. To avoid this, revise regularly and efficiently. It's not just about how much you know, but how well you can recall and apply that knowledge under exam conditions.

• First Reading Before Time: Aim to complete your first round of studying at least 8 months before the GPSC exam. This will leave ample time for revision and consolidation.
• Second Reading with Note-Making: As you move into the second round of revision, make concise notes that will help you in the final revision phase. By summarizing key points, you can reduce your dependence on textbooks.
• Revision Plan: Ideally, you should aim to revise the entire syllabus at least three times before the exam. Frequent revision will ensure that the concepts remain fresh in your mind.
• Revise Current Affairs: Current Affairs are crucial for GPSC, so make sure to revise your notes on this topic multiple times, ideally 3 to 4 times before the exam.

Step 10: Take Mock Tests Regularly for GPSC Preparation

In the final 2-3 months before the exam, focus on taking regular mock tests. These will help you adjust to the exam format, manage time efficiently, and reduce exam anxiety.

How to Use Mock Tests for GPSC

• Simulate Exam Conditions: Take mock tests as per the actual GPSC exam schedule. This helps your body and mind adjust to the pressure and time constraints of the exam.
• Work on Speed and Accuracy: Practice solving questions quickly while ensuring accuracy. Initially, focus more on accuracy. As you progress, aim to increase your speed while maintaining accuracy.
•  Subject Wise Tests : It is important to take subject-wise tests as they tell you your strength.
• Take Full-Syllabus Tests: Along with subject-wise tests, attempt full-syllabus mock tests. This helps you get a feel for how to handle the entire paper within the allotted time.

Mock Test Analysis

 Go to your EduRev Profile (Analysis tab) to see your macro comprehensive analysis and see if you can patterns in the mistakes that you make.

• Work out ways to eliminate silly errors
• Never forget to analyze correctly attempted questions as well
• Brush up on the concepts of your weak areas that you may have missed
• This will help you in shaping your approach/strategy and even identifying strengths and weaknesses.
• It will not only help you in anxiety management during the actual exam but will also prepare you extremely well for the exam!
• Any new static knowledge gained add in your notes. And even for current affairs maintain a separate diary and note down new things learn there. 

By consistently practicing mock tests, analyzing your performance, and revising regularly, you'll be well-prepared for the GPSC exam and ready to face the competition.

Step 11: GPSC Mains Preparation at Home

1. Start Preparation Immediately After Prelims:

   • Begin Mains preparation as soon as you complete your Prelims.
   • Review your Prelims score and the answer key before starting.

2. Solve Previous Year's Questions:

   • After completing a topic, solve the previous year's questions from the Mains exam. You can find them here
   • This helps familiarize you with the type of questions asked in the exam.

3. Focus on Static Subjects:

   • The GPSC Mains exam includes both static subjects (like History, Geography, Polity, Economics) and current affairs.
   • Develop a strong command over static subjects, as they form a significant part of both Mains and Prelims.
   • A solid understanding of static topics will give you an advantage in Prelims as well.

4. Expert Opinion:

   • "EduRev's resources for static subjects are well-structured and comprehensive, giving you an edge in mastering the essential portions for GPSC.

5. Revision and Practice:

   • Revise the completed topics regularly to ensure retention and clarity.
   • Keep practicing answer writing, especially for subjective questions in Mains.

Step 12: Answer Writing Preparation for GPSC Mains

• When you begin your GPSC preparation, focus initially on building a strong foundation of knowledge, particularly through NCERTs and other foundational texts. During the early stages, avoid over-focusing on newspapers or answer writing; these aspects should come into play once you've grasped the core subjects.
• Once you are comfortable with your understanding of the subjects, you can begin to practice answer writing. A good approach is to spend Sundays writing answers on topics you've studied during the week. This allows you to consolidate your learning and practice structuring your answers in a clear and concise manner.
• GPSC Mains is designed to test your analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills. You'll need to demonstrate the ability to think clearly, structure your answers well, and present your arguments within time limits. Writing good answers, therefore, requires consistent practice.
• You'll also need to incorporate various elements into your answers, such as facts, government schemes, reports, and current affairs. The more you practice, the better you'll get at identifying the key points in any question, and at organizing your thoughts even if you don't know everything about a given topic.
• Make sure to dedicate your weekends to revising and refining what you've learned throughout the week. This will help you reinforce your understanding and improve your recall during the exam.

Topper Tip: "Starting an answer with an interesting fact, anecdote, or quote can set the tone for the rest of the answer."

Step 13: Essay Writing for GPSC

• Total Marks: 150 (Mains Paper).
• Practice both national and regional themes like governance, economy, social issues, and philosophy.
• Develop content from newspapers, magazines, government reports, and online resources.
• Write 1-2 essays per week under exam conditions focusing on introduction, body, and conclusion.
• Use real-world examples, especially from Gujarat, to add relevance and depth.
• Include government schemes like Vibrant Gujarat, Garib Kalyan in Gujarat-centric essays.
• Highlight key points with underlining and write in clear, simple language.
• Present multiple perspectives and avoid extreme or biased views.
• Regularly analyze previous years' papers to identify recurring topics and trends.
• Get your essays reviewed for feedback on structure, coherence, and language.
• Focus on time management and complete essays within the allotted time.
• Scoring well in the essay can significantly boost your overall rank in GPSC.

Step 14: How to Prepare for the GPSC Interview?

The GPSC Interview is the final stage of the exam, and it is less about academic knowledge and more about assessing your personality, communication skills, and overall suitability for the civil services.

The first step in preparing for the interview is to fill out the Detailed Application Form (DAF) carefully. Be honest and thoughtful about every detail, especially regarding your personal background, educational qualifications, and hobbies.

Key Tips for the GPSC Interview:

• Know Yourself: You will likely be asked questions about your background, education, hobbies, and hometown. Be well-prepared to talk about these aspects confidently.
• Stay Calm and Be Yourself: The panel is more interested in how you present yourself under pressure than in your ability to memorize facts. Be genuine and stay calm.
• Work on Communication Skills: Your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and effectively is crucial. Practice speaking on current affairs, your experiences, and your opinions.
• Stay Updated: Be aware of the latest developments, both locally in Gujarat and nationally, as these topics often come up during the interview. Focus on industries, cooperatives, Vibrant Gujarat.

If you reach the interview stage, try to connect with mentors or previous candidates who can guide you through the process and help you prepare better.

Step 15: Believe in Yourself During the GPSC Exam

Success in the GPSC exam is not just about hard work but also about believing in your ability to succeed. While the journey may be long and challenging, it's important to stay positive and remain determined.

At times, you may encounter setbacks, but the key is not to let them discourage you. Everyone faces obstacles, but what matters is how you respond to them. The most successful candidates are those who don't give up, even in the face of adversity.

Stay Focused and Positive:

• Consistency and Discipline: Maintain a regular study routine and stick to it. This consistency will pay off in the long run.
• Resilience: Accept that there will be difficult days, but always remember your ultimate goal. Perseverance and a positive attitude will get you through tough times.

In the end, believe in yourself, keep pushing forward, and don't let negativity hold you back. With dedication and a focused approach, you can succeed in the GPSC exam and achieve your dream of joining the Gujarat Administrative Services.