UPSC MAINS PREPARATION STRATEGY
“Give me Six Hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four hours sharpening the axe”. The following statement of Sir Abraham signifies the importance of planning. The correct way to complete the task is as worthy as the completion of the task itself because it is easier to achieve the best result when you start with proper planning.
Immediately after prelims, it is recommended to start for the Mains Exam preparation with answer writing practice.
This is how one should plan one’s study and manage time accordingly. Yet, at the same time aspirants should also keep in mind that there is no perfect study plan all they have to make sure is that they plan for the right one.
1. Answer Writing Practice
• It’s well known that UPSC Mains Exam is a descriptive one which involves elaborative answer writing. One must have to work on the writing part including speed, handwriting, etc.
• Take regular tests along with preparing appropriate notes.
• Use flow charts to remember the key notes.
• Try to write in a legible manner with appropriate fonts.
2. Correlate the topics of the Prelims with the Mains Syllabus
• There are certain topics of the prelims which are similar to that of the mains. While preparing for the pre exam you can make the notes for the mains also.
• You just have to keep in mind that the Prelims exam is of objective nature but for the mains exam you have to study descriptively.
3. Structure your syllabus
• Don’t study haphazardly.
• Draw a proper outline of the important topics of all the subjects, time to be given to each subject and the references for the same.
4. Essay Writing
• The Essay Paper in the IAS Mains Exam consists of two sections A and B with four topics in each of 125 marks and a total of 250 marks, usually, one section has topics based on ‘general quotes’ while the topics in other section would be ‘administration related’. Candidates have to choose a topic from each section and write about the topic in 1,000 to 2,000 words within the given time of three hours.
• Choose the topic wisely. Write down all the key points and elaborate accordingly.
• Essay reflects the views, ideas, suggestions, values, attitude, aptitude, and personality of the candidates so it’s the most crucial part of the mains examination.
5. Continue reading news paper
• Study newspapers, editorials for gathering information as well as for improving the way of expressing your views on certain trending issues.
• You can also follow blogs on internet related to the current issues.
6. Focus on the word limit
• Try to write the best essence of your thoughts in the given range of the words.
• Try not to exceed the word limit.
7. Positive Attitude
• Be enthusiastic and give your best.
8. Time Management
• One of the biggest hurdles is the time management.
• This time management is only possible if the candidates are able to set up a schedule and fix deadlines for various portions of the syllabus.
• Follow proper routine and give ample time to your studies along with other activities.
• Whether you study for less time but whatever you are studying, study thoroughly.
9. Stay Healthy and Fit
• A Healthy Mind stays in a Healthy Body’ the statement justifies the importance of health.
• Be calm and composed take proper sleep and refresh your mind.
• Try some yoga postures for increasing focus and relaxing your mind and body.
