How to Kick-start IAS Preparation at Home for Upcoming CSE exam?

How to Prepare for IAS at Home for the Upcoming CSE exam?- The IAS exam, also known as the Civil Services Exam (CSE), is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). While many of us have heard about this exam since childhood or read about it in newspapers or watched movies, what it actually takes to clear this exam will be discussed in this article.

Despite the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” mantra being the norm these days, you can still embark on IAS preparation from the comfort of your own home. To prepare for the UPSC CSE, you will need good study material, guidance or mentorship, patience, consistency, and a strong determination. Gone are the days when one had to go to Delhi to prepare for this exam. Thanks to digitalization, you can now start your UPSC preparation from wherever you are. As they say, “getting started is the hardest part. Once you do it right, half of your work is done.”

How to Prepare for IAS in the Right Way

Here are Some Tips for Beginners on How to Prepare for IAS:

1. Check your Eligibility: Before starting your IAS preparation, make sure you are eligible for the exam. You can check your IAS exam eligibility on the official UPSC website.

2. Know the Exam Pattern and Syllabus: The first step in IAS preparation is to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and syllabus. This will give you an idea of the scope and depth of your UPSC preparation. It will also help you plan your course of study and understand what to focus on while reading the newspaper. Make sure to go through the syllabus and exam pattern thoroughly to have a clear understanding.

3. Develop a habit of reading newspapers daily: For IAS preparation, it is important to develop a daily habit of reading newspapers, especially the editorial page. This will help you stay updated on current affairs, which is crucial for your UPSC preparation. If you haven’t subscribed to any online IAS course or current affairs magazine, then it is recommended to make notes while reading the newspaper. The Hindu or The Indian Express are highly recommended newspapers. Additionally, reading Yojana Magazine and Kurukshetra Magazine, published by the government, can provide in-depth information about government plans, schemes, and analysis.

4. Join a Good Online Course: While not compulsory, joining an online course can make your UPSC preparation easier. When choosing a course, consider the following recommendations:
– Make sure the videos in the course are recordings of a classroom and not studio-based recordings.
– Ensure the course provider covers the entire syllabus and ask for details on the number of lectures for each subject.
– Request sample videos of each subject.
– Check if the course includes study material and tests.
– Inquire about features like the validity of the course, interactive support, and mentorship rules.
Keep in mind that these are just recommendations, and you can inquire about other facilities that suit your needs. A good online course can significantly enhance your IAS preparation.

5. Plan and Execute well: A well-planned and realistic approach is vital for your UPSC preparation. Understand your abilities and create a flexible plan accordingly. Execution is key to success, so make sure your plan includes regular revisions to retain what you have learned. Mentorship can be helpful in this regard, so seek guidance from your course provider if possible.

6. Do Not collect lots of books and study material: While it’s true that you need to read extensively to clear the CSE exam, there’s no need to accumulate a large number of books and create a mini library. One good quality book per subject is sufficient, and if needed, you can consider a second book. Focus on reading and revising these books multiple times, as revision is crucial for success. Also, remember that NCERT books are important for certain subjects.

7. Adopt necessary lifestyle changes: Crackling the UPSC exam may require some lifestyle adjustments. Fix your biological clock and establish a study routine that suits you best. Aim for 6-8 hours of quality sleep, and try waking up early for study sessions. Avoid procrastination and maintain a balanced diet. Engaging in physical exercise or yoga can be beneficial for your overall well-being. Stay committed to your UPSC preparation, which typically takes at least 8-9 months to cover the entire syllabus. Regular revisions and self-assessment through tests are essential. Pay special attention to developing your answer writing skills from the beginning and get your tests evaluated to identify and rectify any mistakes.

Follow the trend of the examination and avoid falling for rumors or predictions, as UPSC is unpredictable. Stay focused, logical, and adopt a holistic approach to your IAS preparation, encompassing both Preliminary and Mains exams. If you have the right strategy, you will notice a difference in the first few months of your preparation.

Please note that these recommendations are based on personal experience and the author’s extensive experience in mentoring IAS aspirants. While this article can be a guiding light, prepare for IAS and remember that it is ultimately you who will make the difference.