How to prepare for UPSC/IAS Prelims Exam?

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:

MAINSTORE-PRACTICE

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!

Read More:;

1.How to start UPSC Exam preparation

2. Myths about preparation for UPSC

3. IAS Preparation Strategy with JOB