Advancing Your IAS Preparation Beyond the Basics: Insights from a Topper’s Approach

Preparing for the UPSC Mains exams, particularly for the Civil Services Main Examination (CSM), requires a meticulous strategy and a deep understanding of multiple domains. This commentary delves into the techniques and insights of a successful candidate from the 2017 UPSC Mains, providing valuable guidance for those aiming to excel in future exams such as IAS 2017 and IAS 2018.

The Role of Government Sources and Reports

One key element that worked for this candidate was the effective use of government sources and reports. They leveraged documents such as:

Second ARC (Administrative Reforms Commission) and NITI Aayog’s Three Year Action Agenda: These reports provided comprehensive data and detailed solutions that enriched their essays and policy answers. Economic Survey: This resource was utilized for reliable economic and policy-related data, making their answers both informed and relevant. WEFA Global Gender Gap Report, NCRB Crime Data for Women, HDI Ranking, and Poverty, Education, and Health Statistics: These reports helped in addressing gender-related issues, crime data, and socio-economic challenges, enhancing the depth and complexity of their responses.

Data and Rankings in Your Answers

The inclusion of various rankings and status reports in answers was another pivotal strategy:

WEFA Global Gender Gap Report: This was used for gender-related issues and policies. NCRB Crime Data for Women: Highlighted critical social challenges. HDIs, Poverty, Education, and Health Statistics: Enriched the analysis and highlighted various socio-economic indicators.

Using such data not only provided a structured and data-driven approach but also helped in addressing current issues and policies.

Quality of Responses and Integration of Topics

Quality was essential in the preparation, especially when:

Answered to the Point: Ensuring precision and relevance in responses. Integrated Multiple Topics: Combining different subjects to form a cohesive and integrated response. Incorporated Diagrams: For complex answers, using diagrams to enhance clarity and understanding.

Examples include addressing questions related to the Malay Peninsula Juno Mission, where an integrative approach was crucial for a comprehensive answer.

Formulas for Structured Answers

The IBC (Introduction, Body, Conclusion) formula was applied to a majority of the questions, ensuring a structured and organized response:

Introduction: Setting the context. Body: Providing detailed analysis and arguments. Conclusion: Reiterating key points and offering forward-looking perspectives.

Some concluding slogans and phrases like “EK Bharat Shrestha Bharat,” “Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas,” and “Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam” were used to add a personal touch and emphasize national integration and progress.

Optional Paper Preparation and Strategic Focus

The optional papers play a crucial role in the comprehensive preparation for the CSM. Attention to detail and strategic focus on high-yielding areas were critical:

Public Administration: This was reviewed twice and supplemented with test papers, focusing on important areas like Riggs Theory, NPA, Civil Services administrative reforms, and Prakash Singh judgement on RTI. Federalism, GST, Police Reforms, PUNCCHI Commission: These focused on State governance and local administration, helping to address topical issues effectively.

Despite the candidate’s efforts, the second paper of Public Administration did not meet their expectations due to poor question selection and incomplete coverage.

Perseverance, Patience, and Good Health

While strategy and preparation are vital, so are perseverance and good health. The candidate’s journey displayed:

Perseverance: Overcoming preliminary failures with consistent effort. Patience: Staying calm and focused throughout the preparation process. Practice: Continuous revision and mock tests to enhance skills and confidence. Good Health: Maintaining a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular exercise to keep the mind and body in peak condition.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This account provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for those gearing up for the UPSC Mains. While the candidate’s journey faced challenges, the strategies employed highlight the importance of thorough preparation, strategic focus, and maintaining a balanced approach. All the best to those aiming to clear the UPSC Mains!