Top 10 Tips for Clearing IAS While in College

Clearing IAS is a common dream among many young people who aspire to serve the nation. However, the IAS exam is known for its challenges and is often called ‘the writer’s exam.’ With a diverse syllabus and numerous subjects to cover, including essay-type questions, strong writing skills can provide an advantage. Regardless, dedicated efforts are required to succeed. In this article we will provide you Top 10 Tips for Clearing IAS While in College. These tips will help you to Ace the UPSC Exam.

If you are a college student aiming to clear the IAS exam, here are some tips to keep in mind. Your preparation strategy must be balanced with your college curriculum and UPSC preparation.

Things to Know Before Starting Your Preparation

Before applying for UPSC examinations, it is essential to be well-informed about the eligibility criteria:

• Age limit: Minimum age is 21 years and maximum age is 32 years, calculated on the year of examination.
• Educational Qualifications: A graduate degree from a recognized university.
• Nationality: Candidates must be citizens of India, or subjects of Nepal, Tibet, or Bhutan settled in India before 1st January 1962.

Top 10 Tips for Your Success

1. Harnessing the early bird advantage: Starting your preparation from the beginning of your college years is a wise decision. Utilize the time you have to study without the pressure of the approaching exam and make the most of your college life.
2. Building the habit of reading newspapers: Regularly reading newspapers is vital for covering the current affairs section. Preferred newspapers by UPSC toppers include Indian Express and The Hindu. Magazines like Yojana, Kurukshetra, Economic, and Political Weekly are also recommended.
3. Utilizing the semester holidays: Use month-long semester holidays to cover subjects that you feel confident in. Collect the necessary books and utilize these breaks wisely to save time in the long run.
4. Building a sustainable writing practice: Strong writing skills are crucial for clearing UPSC-CSE examinations. Practice writing daily, focus on providing well-written and informative answers for the essay-type questions.
5. Time management: Create a well-spaced routine that allows time for both academics and exam preparation. Avoid neglecting relaxation and incorporate it into your daily activities.
6. Enroll yourself in a test series: Join online test series to practice and understand the question pattern. Participate in mock test series and revise weak areas to strengthen your preparation.
7. Watch topper’s interviews: Gain insights and motivation from IAS toppers’ interviews. Make necessary adjustments to your routine based on their perspectives, but avoid being too engrossed in them.
8. Get the right guidance: If you feel confused or overwhelmed, opt for coaching classes or online courses for IAS preparation. Seek guidance and access reliable study material.
9. Choosing the optional topics: Select your optional subjects early, considering ease and scoring potential. Choose a subject that suits you best from the available options.
10. Build your friend circle: Surround yourself with like-minded friends who can discuss exam-related topics. Peers can be a valuable source of support and assistance during exam preparation.

In conclusion, these Tips for Clearing IAS During College can help students prepare for IAS. Good luck and work hard!