Managing Mid-Exam Preparation Anxiety: NCERTs and Beyond

Many aspirants face a common challenge during their preparation for competitive exams like UPSC, especially when they reach the mid-phase of their study schedule. This article aims to provide guidance and strategies to handle this common issue, focusing on the effective use of NCERTs and maintaining a well-structured preparation schedule.

Understanding the Anxiety

As an aspirant, you may feel a mix of excitement and apprehension as you approach the exam midway through your preparation period. It's a common experience to feel overwhelmed or even forget what you've read, particularly when dealing with detailed materials like NCERTs. This issue may stem from a lack of conceptual understanding or from the sheer volume of material covered.

Effective Use of NCERTs

The NCERT books are foundational and are often recommended as the starting point for UPSC preparation. However, the challenge lies in retaining the information and applying it effectively. Here are some tips to maximize the use of NCERTs:

Mark Key Points: As you read, take notes or use a highlighter to mark important points. This process helps in retention and quick revision.

Watch Educational Videos: If you find it difficult to remember what you read, consider watching educational videos on the same topics. This visual and auditory approach can aid in better understanding and retention.

Analytical Understanding: Instead of memorizing facts, focus on a conceptual understanding. Interlink your studies and understand the underlying principles rather than just reading pages.

Understand the Syllabus and Previous Year Papers: Regularly review the syllabus and previous year's question papers to understand the exam's nature and tailor your preparation accordingly.

Managing the Exam Schedule

Here are some strategies to stay on track with your preparation schedule:

Set Realistic Goals: Plan your studies well and set achievable goals. For instance, decide how many topics or chapters you can cover in a specific time frame and stick to it.

Regular Practice: Solve previous year's question papers and sample questions to assess your understanding and improve your problem-solving skills.

Adequate Rest: Maintain a good work-life balance. Ensure you get enough sleep and stay away from stress-inducing situations and peer pressure.

Maintain Continuity: Exam preparation is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay consistent and avoid sudden cramming sessions. This ensures that the information is retained long-term.

Seeking Guidance and Community Support

Reaching out for guidance is crucial. Consider joining forums, discussing with peers, and following the advice of experienced aspirants. Watching educational videos like those by Abhishek Saraf on Civilsdaily and other recommended content can provide valuable insights and guidance.

Remember, every aspirant faces fluctuations in their performance and schedule. The key is to stay motivated and consistent. Focus on your overall progress rather than feeling anxious about what you haven't memorized yet.

Wishing you all the best in your preparation journey!