How to prepare for UPSC/IAS Prelims Exam? – Plover Minds Institute LLP

Syllabus for the UPSC Preliminary Examination:

The syllabus of General studies paper includes-

Current events of national and international importance
History of India and Indian National Movement
Indian Polity and Governance Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, and Rights Issues
Economic and Social Development‐Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives and
Indian and World Geography-Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World
General issues on Environmental ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate
General Science

The syllabus of CSAT Paper Includes-

Comprehension
Logical reasoning and analytical ability
Decision-making and problem-solving
General mental ability
Basic numeracy -numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc
Data interpretation -charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency, etc

Strategy to Prepare for UPSC Prelims GS Paper I subjects:

Preparing for the UPSC Prelims exam requires a systematic and well-planned approach, especially for beginners. Here are subject-wise preparation tips to help you get started:

1. General Studies Paper 1 (GS-1):

a. History:

Start with NCERT books for ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history.
Move on to standard reference books like Bipin Chandra’s “India’s Struggle for Independence” and “India After Independence.”
Focus on art and culture, and revise regularly. b. Geography:
Begin with NCERTs for basic concepts and then move on to Goh Cheng Leong’s “Certificate Physical and Human Geography.”
Focus on map-based questions; practice locating important places on the map. c. Polity:
Read Laxmikanth’s “Indian Polity” thoroughly. Pay attention to the Constitution, fundamental rights, and directive principles.
Understand the structure of government, constitutional bodies, and amendments.
Regularly practice multiple-choice questions (MCQs) on polity. d. Economy:
Start with NCERTs and then move on to books like Ramesh Singh’s “Indian Economy” for conceptual clarity.
Follow economic news regularly to stay updated on current affairs related to the economy. e. Environment and Ecology:
Focus on the environment and ecology sections from NCERTs.
Refer to Shankar IAS Environment book and stay updated on environmental issues through newspapers. f. Science and Technology:
Refer to NCERTs for the basics.
Stay updated on current advancements and issues in science and technology.

2. General Studies Paper 2 (GS-2):

a. Polity:

Continue revising Laxmikanth’s “Indian Polity” and focus on topics like governance, welfare schemes, and constitutional bodies.
Understand the parliamentary system, emergency provisions, and important amendments. b. Governance and International Relations:
Stay updated on government policies and schemes.
Follow international relations topics through newspapers and magazines. c. Social Justice:
Focus on topics related to social justice, vulnerable sections, and government initiatives for their welfare.
Understand issues related to caste, gender, and social inequalities. d. Constitution, Governance, and Social Justice:
Practice previous years’ question papers to understand the pattern.
Focus on topics like fundamental rights, duties, and DPSP (Directive Principles of State Policy). e. IR (International Relations):
Read newspapers regularly to stay updated on global events.
Understand India’s relations with neighboring countries and important international organizations.

3. General Studies Paper 1 and 2: Common Tips:

a. Current Affairs:

Follow a daily newspaper like The Hindu or The Indian Express for current affairs.
Make concise notes for quick revision. b. Previous Year Question Papers:
Solve previous years’ question papers to understand the exam pattern.
Analyze the types of questions asked and focus on weak areas. c. Mock Tests:
Enroll in a good test series to practice time management and improve accuracy.
Regularly take full-length mock tests. d. Revision:
Regularly revise your notes to reinforce your learning.
Focus on weak areas during revision. e. Time Management:
Manage your time effectively during the exam. Practice solving papers within the stipulated time. f. Elimination Technique:
In case of uncertainty, use the elimination technique for MCQs.
Rule out obviously incorrect options to increase your chances of selecting the correct answer. g. Stress Management:
Take care of your mental and physical health.
Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques to manage stress.

Remember, consistency is key. Develop a study routine that suits you and stick to it. Stay focused, keep track of your progress, and adapt your strategy based on your strengths and weaknesses. Good luck!