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Rambabu Vavilapalli, IRS

with valuable inputs from:


Sri.R.Vineel Krishna, IAS




1) Preface
2) General Overview of the Exam
Basics of the exam
Nature of exam
Choosing the optionals
Relevance of coaching
Indicative scoring pattern of the exam
General Suggestions
How should a fresher approach the exam?
3) Various Stages of the Exam
Preliminary examination
Main examination
Interview My CS Interview 2011
4) Reference Books
General Studies for Prelim and Main Exam
Public Administration
History
5) Exclusive inputs from Sri.R.Vineel Krishna, IAS regarding
Hobbies
Ideal Time Table
Studying while doing a job
How to study?
How to prepare notes?
Revision
Where to prepare?
How to write answers?
How to remember?
Stress management
Long term orientation for school & college students
Miscellaneous topics like Health, diary writing, books & cassettes
& book shops



Preface
Civil Services Examination is considered the most prestigious exam to enter
into government service to man positions at highest level. They get an opportunity to
take part in formulation and implementation of public policies and programmes that
determine the development discourse of the nation.

Its many peoples dream, but, a few would make it to the final list. A look at
the marks scored and backgrounds of several candidates reveals that its an ordinary
examination. However, it requires nothing less than sustained hard work, unflinching
determination and great passion to become a civil servant. Some people like me who
hail from rural background have limited or little access to right kind of guidance and
information about the requirements of the exam. Also, some people with superficial
ideas about exam plunge in and bite the dust when face the hard realities. Right
guidance from the right persons is indispensable to make preparation for this exam
simpler and enriching.

It is this end in view, I have tried to compile this piece of information
regarding various requirements of this exam so as to provide a basic guidance to those
who wish to appear for this exam. I was privileged to get valuable guidance from
Sri.R.Vineel Krishna, IAS (Orissa Cadre) during initial days of my preparation.
Some of the inputs shared by him then are made use of in this document with a grand
purpose of showing right path to those who are knew to this journey.

Some aspirants have misconceptions about various aspects of the exam and
are ending up wasting time and energy. This document sheds some light on each and
every aspect of the exam. It helps you approach the exam with confident and positive
frame of mind. You are right in aiming big, but be right in choosing the means to
achieve it.

With best wishes,






Basics of the Exam:

Before starting the preparation, it is important to have a complete understanding about the exam
process, its structure and the various aspects related to the preparation.

The structure of the exam and related information can be obtained from the UPSC
website. Go to www.upsc.gov.in -----> Examination -----> Archival then click CSE
notification. The complete notification should be studied carefully.
You will have a comprehensive idea about various stages of the exam, pattern of exam at
each stage, optional subjects, syllabus, max. marks at each stage, eligibility criteria, no. of
attempts, Services that come under this exam etc.
One should have a basic idea of the exam including various stages, nature of various
Services as part of this exam, scoring pattern, recent trends, efforts of successful
candidates etc. This will have great impact on the course of your preparation.

Nature of the Exam

In any competitive exam, understanding the nature of the exam is the most crucial phase. The
preparation will be more focused when you know exactly what the examiner is expecting. At the
same time, the competition is relative. You only need to be better than the other aspirants to get a
final place in the merit list.

Check yourself in following ways:
- A thorough analysis of the previous years papers and the recent trends.
- Discussing elaborately with teachers, successful candidates and seniors.
- Carefully understanding the requirements of the exam as given in the notification.

The preparation should start only after having the basic idea about the exam. Later on, as
you study, there should be a continuous analysis and comparison between your
preparation and the requirements of the exam. This kind of assessment will help in being
very focused and all the efforts can be channelised in the right direction.

Understanding the nature of the exam is very critical for success in civils exam. First of
all, lets examine why it takes so much time for many in clearing this exam. There is lot of
hype around the IAS exam. People have very ridiculous ides about the preparation for it.
The coaching institutes, magazines and toppers almost everyone associated with the exam
try to increase this hype due to vested interests. So a fresh aspirant comes with the idea
that he has to do some hi-funda preparation and be like a scholar in the subjects. He starts
his preparation on a high note and works hard in the beginning. For each topic he tries to
do maximum and best preparation. In the process, he reads all the text books and the
coaching material available in the market. Some spend 2-3 days on each topic and
prepare 10-15 pages of notes. Gradually, he feels exhausted and the momentum slows
down. Due to this approach, he is not able to complete the syllabus. So, he goes for a
selective study as the exam nears. Now the pressure becomes unbearable, as on one hand


he has not completed the syllabus and on the other hand he prepared so much notes for
each topic that revision becomes impossible within a short time.

People have a funny idea that civils can be cleared only in multiple attempts. So, the
aspirant starts succumbing to pressure and convinces himself that it is only his first
attempt and, therefore he can prepare better next time. Naturally, his performance in the
exam affects and he is in no position to clear the exam. When the marks come, he will
compare his marks with what he has written. Then, he will also compare the marks of
toppers. With experience, he realizes that the exam does not expect him to be a master in
the subject. But merely that the aspirant should be thorough in the basics. By that time,
precious time is wasted.

The civils exam is all about the basics with lot of clarity. The exam process is complex,
but the solution should be a simple one. If the aspirant complicates the preparation also,
then he is in real trouble. To understand the exam, just observe the following facts:
- The candidates who qualify for IAS (say top 80) get marks in the range of 55-60%
and in CSE-2011, it was only 50-60%.
- To make it to the final list, a candidate requires 50-55% and in the changing trend it is
only 45-52%
- To qualify for the interview a candidate requires 48-50% earlier and now it is only
43-45%

That means, it is sufficient to get a Second class to clear the exam. Even the toppers get
only around 58% marks. The reason is due to the nature of the exam itself. The syllabus is
so huge that it is not humanly possible to be a scholar in all the papers GS, essay and
two optionals (preliminary, main and interview). In the final month, when revision has to
be done, there will be around 2000 topics in all including various sub-topics from which
questions can be asked. It is not possible for anyone to master that much syllabus. The
exam can be written well when the preparation is simple and the aspirant is very strong in
basics with clarity.

In Public administration, there is a theory on Decision making by Herbert Simon. Taking
an analogy of that theory to exam preparation, the strategy should be a Satisfying
approach. It means a preparation which is good enough for the exam. Whereas, many
try to do a maximising approach where they want to do the best preparation without
considering the requirements of the exam. The civils exam is all about basics and a
Satisfycing approach not a maximizing one.

Anyhow, the exam process itself is psychologically very pressurizing. We should devise
ways to reduce this pressure. By adopting a Maximizing approach, the revision becomes
very difficult and the exam days will be a nightmare. When the preparation is
complicated, there is a real danger of confusion with respect to clarity. Since, revision is
difficult, remembering and reproducing in the exam hall will be affected. Therefore, the
focus should be on getting clarity on the basics. When the foundation is strong there is no
problem of revision and reproduction. Moreover, the exam only requires 50% marks,
which is quite easy with good basics. The marks can be further enhanced with innovation
in writing answers. That will take the scores beyond 55-60%, ensuring a top service. So,
the real key to the civils exam is basics with clarity and innovation.



The creativity and innovation is not something that you will get in the text books. They
have to be developed on your own. It requires lot of thinking and observation. By
innovation in answers what is meant is catchy introduction, diagrams, graphs, flow
charts, maps, case studies, contemporary touch and applicability & conclusion.

Basics with clarity will come when there is lot of questioning while studying. The topic
has to be studied in a logical manner. Suppose you are studying a topic on Inflation.
Think logically as a layman, then you should get the following sequence of questions
- what is inflation
- why should there be inflation, i.e., causes
- So what if there is inflation, i.e., impact
- If impact is negative, then naturally we should be doing something to reduce it, so
what steps were taken and what happened
- If still inflation is there, then whats wrong with the steps taken
- How to control inflation , any suggestions by experts and recent developments.
You can add innovations like say a simple graph showing how the inflation has been in
recent times and also a flow diagram about the impact of inflation.

In this manner, the basics in the topic can be covered with clarity. And the topic should be
remembered in this logical structured way for the exam. It should be understood that once
you have done the topic in this comprehensive method through logical questioning, the
preparation is over for that topic. You need not go through any journals or hi-funda text
books for becoming an expert in the topic. This much of basics with clarity is sufficient
for the exam. And, this is what is humanly possible in view of the huge syllabus.

Secondly, since the preparation will be simple with a Satisfycing approach, it is easy to
complete the whole syllabus. The reason why many go for selective preparation is
because they maximize each topic, spend 2-3 days on it and in the end there is no time for
completing the syllabus. It becomes very risky in the exam if the paper is not favourable.
So, its very important that no topic is left out in the syllabus.

It should be noted that completing the syllabus with basic clarity itself requires lots of
efforts. But the hard work would be channelised in the right direction and there would be
no reason why the candidate would not be successful.

So, to summarize, the following points should be kept in mind while doing preparation:
- It is a Second class exam which requires a satisfycing approach
- The focus should be on gaining basic clarity in each topic, which will come only
through lots of logical questioning
- The whole syllabus should be completed
- More time should be spent on thinking about the topic and making innovations, rather
than on reading too many study material.
- The previous papers should be thoroughly analyzed to understand the expectations of
the examiner.
- The preparation should be focused and all the hard work should be channelised in the
right direction.





Choosing the optionals

The most important step in the exam is chosing the optionals. There is a need to be really
cautious about the optionals. The main problem is lack of level playing field between the
optionals. In fact, the result depends a lot on the optionals that we take.

Some criteria which should guide you while chosing optionals are:
- interest in the subject. This is quite important for sustaining the momentum in studies
and completing the huge syllabus.
- Availability of guidance in the form of seniors who cleared with the optional,
coaching, material, etc.
- Performance of the optional in the last few years.
- Time gap between the two optionals. Chose the optionals combination so that there is
some time gap between them.

Some of the optionals which a majority take are: Anthropology, Geography, Public
Administration, History, Political Science and International Relations, Psychology,
Sociology and Literature.

The main advantage with these optionals are:
- availability of guidance, which reduces the efforts to a large extent
- the knowledge also helps in GS, Essay and interview.
- They are also relevant for an administartive career.

The reason why they are called scoring is not because the examiners give more marks
here. The guidance helps a lot in understanding the exam quickly. So, we can prepare
accordingly and score well. Also, because there is market for these subjects, the material
available is olso of good standard. Moreover, there is no risk associated with these
optionals.

If a person is from professional education background, which optionals should he choose?
This is a basic question for many. There is a tendancy to opt for the graduating subject.
Lets understand the problems associated with these subjects.
o There will be no guidance available. So, lots of time will have to be spent in
understanding the requirements of the exam. Then, searching for the material. It
becomes a trial and error process. All the energies will be spent on this, while you
get exhausted when really studying. At the same time, you will also have to
complete the huge syllabus of another optional and GS.
o Because of the above problem, it will take more time and more attempts. While,
your friends in other fields go far ahead. So, both peer and social pressure starts.
The exam is anyhow psychologically draining, if other pressures add to it, then it
becomes unbearable. Finally, your goal of cracking the exam becomes
impossible.
o You will have to do every thing on your own. Initially it might be fine. But the
exam is of long duration. It becomes difficult to sustain the momentum on your
own.
o Previously, science and engg. Optionals used to do very well. In top 20, there
used to be 18-19 from IIT and engg background. But after 2000, UPSC has
modified the syllabus. It became a very huge syllabus and even the exam
questions are made tough. Thats the reason why, very few are writing the exam


from IITs now. Many engineers are taking Arts optionals instead of sciences. Just
observe the background of the toppers and their optionals.

A person might be University topper, but we have to understand the difference between
an academic exam and a competitive exam. Moreover, the optionals are not on the same
platform. So it is very important to be careful, while chosing optionals, even though you
might feel you are really good in a particular subject.

Still, if you are confident about your subject, then do take that optional. Because, there is
nothing like a scoring or non-scoring optional. There are some people who cleared with
optionals that others dont take generally. But take into consideration the following points
- do you have a senior who has cleared with this optional and who can guide you well
- do you have close association with professors who have good understanding about
this exam.
- Are you clear about the requirements of the exam? Study the previous papers
thoroughly and assess yourself
- Be clear about the books to follow. Dont do trial and error process. Do a focused
exam oriented preparation.
- Be aware that you have to put double the efforts compared to other aspirants. This
should always be on your mind.
- Do not neglect other optional and GS. Give equal importance.
- Form a group of aspirants with same optional. If you prepare in isolation, then there
will be no flow of information.

There are some succesful candidates with following optionals Agriculture, Animal
Husbandry & Veterinary Science, Botany, Chemistry, Commerce and Accountancy,
Managemet, Mechanical Engineering, Medical Science, Philosophy, Physics, Zoology.

Do not be in a hurry to decide about the optional. Be very cautious and consult the right
people about the information. Analyse carefully all the pros and cons, and then take a
decision purely based on your assessment.


Relevance of Coaching

Due to the complex exam procedure, the coaching assumes a crucial role. Unfortunately, it is
a costly affair. But the coaching has the following advantages:
- helps in understanding the requirements of the exam quickly, so that the preparation is
focussed.
- reduces the efforts in preparation, as subject experts teach the topics in exam orientation.
Any how, the candidate has to prepare for atleast one new optional.
- helps in getting many contacts with co-aspirants which is useful for exam related
information. Never prepare for this exam in complete isolation. In any complex situation,
information plays the key role.

It is advisable to go for some coaching classes. But remember that there are not many genuine
teachers available. So be very careful while joining any institute. Please take into account the
following points:
- do not merely go by the advertisements, nor the claims made in magazines or the
interviews supposedly given by the toppers.


- meet the successful candidates and the seniors who have taken coaching from that
institute.
- do not go by the advise of only one person. It is better to contact as many as possible and
get a general opinion.
- meet the teacher personally,ask for their programme details, results,etc, and assess
yourself if it is worth joining there.

If you are working somewhere or economically under privileged, and therefore, cannot go for
coaching, please do not get discouraged. There are many people who cleared the exam
without coaching. You can device ways of getting the required information about the exam.
But you should always be aware that you will have to work harder than others to clear the
exam. So be prepared for that and believe that hard work will always be paid back in the end.

Check out the competition magazines to get the addresses of various coaching institutes.

Indicative scoring pattern at various stages:

The following data about the marks and the ranks will give a general idea about the efforts that
are required. The marks and the ranks keep varying every year depending on the vacancies and
the standard of the question papers.

In prelims, a score of above 200 out of 400 is desirable to be on the safe side. The 2011
CSAT paper (Paper-II) was relatively easier and GS was tough. But both the papers of 2012
are equally difficult. But if you practice well and sharp/smart enough, you will have edge in
CSAT paper.
Scoring rate in the Mains has continuously declined over the years as the toughness of the GS
papers has increased. Once, good score in GS papers used to be around 320-350. But, now
anything between 230-260 is a good score. However, there is scope for high scoring in
optional depending on your strength on your own optional. Overall, the scores for the mains
are in the range of 45-50%. Usually, a score of around 925-950 is better to ensure a place in
the interview list.
In the interview, a score around 150-180 is a normal performance. Some get a score of even
220-240. The UPSC has deliberately kept a wide range in interview (scores vary between 50-
240), so as to have the final say in who would get into the service. So, it is very important to
make personality development a vital part in your preparation. The final rank is going to
depend very much on the interview marks.
In general category, the score should be around 1150-1200 to get into IAS. The actual ranks
and the service placements can be obtained from the personnel ministry website with this link
http://persmin.gov.in/ais1/WelcomeCSE.asp.
However, it should be noted that the overall scores in CSE-2011 have drastically come down
and hence, cut offs at various stages of the exam are also very low compared to any exam
year in the recent past.

General Suggestions:

Observe the following points:
Long hours of study and lot of other sacrifices are needed. You should have a very
determined mental make up and a never-say-die kind of spirit.


The fortune favours the brave. So work hard with courage inspite of the failures. The final
reward is bound to come. The luck factor does not help if you dont work hard to your
full capacity.
To err is human, but the one who rectifies is a champion. So, do lots of introspection as
you progress in the preparation. This will help you in identifying the mistakes and
rectifying them at the right time.
Devotion and Determination are the keys to the success. Be ready to work hard. But at the
same time, ensure that your efforts are channelised in the right direction.
Plan your study and try to work it out within schedule. Set weekly targets and at the end
of the week, do a self-appraisal.
Patience and perseverence always pays. You should have the confidence and the killer
instinct. Remember clearly that there are no shortcuts to success.
There will be lots of temptation to give up the attempt, as you progress in the preparation.
This is mainly due to the huge syllabus and the accumulating pressure. But be aware that
these are the critical moments. You should face all these pressures with courage. Be
determined to clear the exam in the first attempt.

How should a fresh candidate approach the exam?

A new aspirant should keep in mind the following points:
first try to understand the exam. Gather information from various sources, analyse the
previous years papers, meet seniors and teachers, and think deeply about the exam and
the way you should prepare.
chose the optionals very carefully.
Settle down in some place where you can study without disturbances, it is better to be
isolated for a year during the preparation.
select the coaching centers carefully after enquiring from various sources. Do not merely
go by the advertisements.
Do not be in a hurry to buy all the material available in the market. Be selective and chose
only the best, based on advise of right seniors.
Establish good relation with the teachers and make complete advantage of their
experience.
Remember always that you are going to have a tough period for next two years. So be
well prepared for all situations. Keep working hard right from the beginning without any
distractions.
Believe strongly that you will clear the exam in the first attempt itself and do not
compromise at any stage. If required work harder than ever before.
Take care of your health aspects.
Do not be in a hurry to complete the syllabus. Go slow when you read new concepts. Do
regular revisions.
make writing practise a part of your daily routine.
The current affairs notes should be prepared every day.
The preparation should be started atleast a year ahead of the prelims exam.
Do not give the attempt unless you are confident of qualifying for the interview. The first
attempt should be the best one, so work hard with determination.





VARIOUS STAGES OF THE EXAM:

Preliminary Exam:

This is the first stage of the exam and should never be taken lightly. The preparation should
be such that you should not have any doubt about clearing the exam. The prelims should only
be a passing phase. If you prepare well for the mains exam and be clear about the basics, then
prelims should not be problem. The preparation for the prelims should start from January.

The prelims is a test of recognition. It is sufficient if you can recognise the correct answer
from given choices. So if you are strong in basics this should not be problem. Do not
spend too much time in memorising facts. Its fine if you can recognise it.
Try to be thorough with the basic concepts in every aspect of General Studies. Practising
previous papers and the tests is very important. It will help you in time management and
also in identifying the weak areas. This practise should be right from the beginning and
not in the final stages.
The GS paper is feared by many at the prelims stage. There is an opinion that very
difficult questions are asked from wide areas. While preparing for the GS paper, the first
efforts should be to analyse the previous years papers and then start preparation. Even
while studying, you should keep looking at past questions. This will help in a focused
preparation. In GS, it is equally important to know what not to study.

The score around 90-110 out of 200 in GS paper (Paper-I) is safe to clear prelims. In the
whole paper, 10-15% questions are really tough that none can answer. Many aspirants
orient their preparation keeping in view those very difficult questions. This can be
counter productive since it is not possible to master all areas in GS and while trying to
remember too many facts, the basic clarity will be lost. Despite negative marking, one
has to attempt atleast 65-70 out of 100 questions to be in competition.
In CSAT (Paper-II) also, score around 100-120 out of 200 is safe. However, there is
scope for better score in this paper. In that case, there will be cushion against GS paper
and reduce your pressure on GS. The questions related to Decision making should be
answered with balanced judgement. Basic clarity in arithmetical concepts and smartness
in approach would give you good marks. Questions related to Comprehension test your
ability to read and understand quickly and thorough practice would keep you ahead.
Therefore, a cumulative score of about 200-220 (out of 400) is safe/sufficient to clear
prelims.


Main Examination:

The main is exam is the most important stage of the exam. If you are well prepared for the
mains, then a good foundation will be made. The risk involved with the interview can also be
reduced with good main performance. The preparation should be mains- oriented right from
the beginning. You should try to gather as many marks as possible in the main exam.

Note the following general points:
Improve your handwriting
The answer is the medium through which you are conveying to the examiner. So you


should think as to how to impress the examiner with the answer. Your pen,
handwriting, writing style, logical presentation, innovations, relevance to the
question, etc, everything matters. Be careful about these aspects right from the
beginning.
The final two months should be devoted to repeated revisions.
The writing practise within time limit should be done from the beginning. This will
help in understanding what you can remember and reproduce within the time limit. If
you do this as the preparation progresses then the study will be exam-oriented.
While writing answers, focus on good introductions and conclusions. The
presentation should be logical. The introduction should introduce the reader about the
path he is about to take and whats instored for him. It should raise the curiosity of the
reader. While, the conclusion should sum up what the reader has gone through in the
path. There should be a balanced judgement in the conclusions.
You need not have a very good vocabulary or scholarly writing style. It is sufficient if
you can present your answer in a simple logical manner.
Your aim should be to score equally well in all the papers. In general, you should get
above 350 in optional and as the GS has become a tough nut, aim for scoring above
250. Depending on your strong areas you should get more marks in some papers. The
essay score should be above 100. In this way, if you can get around 1050, then the
position will be very strong.
At the end, you should be in a position to lecture 5-10 minutes on any topic. Then it
means you have the basic clarity.
The presentation is to be practised well. Do not dump the information, but present it
in a logical and attractive manner. The point form can be used only for some factual
areas. Other wise, paragraph mode with good analysis should be used.
Read the question carefully and grasp the aspect being asked. The answer should be
relevant to what is being asked.

General Studies:
Since 2008 exam, the structure of the papers has been consistently changing year after
year. Thus, no. of questions from different areas of the paper, nature of questions,
type of questions in terms of marks allotted to each etc has become difficult to guess.
Focus has shifted from basic concepts of various segments to contemporary relevance
of these concepts in the light of the recent issues. The share of current issues and
analysis has increased drastically. Pre-2008 score of 350 & above is an impossibility
now. Score about 220-250 is good one and above 250 is excellent.
History & culture focus now shifted to culture from traditional history. Questions
on Music, dances, tribes, painting, architecture, literature, personalities are prominent
now.
Geography focus mainly on economic geography.
Polity questions mostly on the issues of current relevance w.r.t. political
developments. No more chocolate questions. Focus on recent legislations, pending
bills and their evaluation.
Current national issues and topics of social relevance focus on development
dynamics, concern for ecology & sustainable development, health infra & concerns,
inclusive growth and development etc.


India & the world focus mainly on Indias security concerns and strategic interests,
emerging relations with our neighbours, Nuclear doctrine, Indias role in global issues
etc.
Indias economic interaction with the world focus mainly on Indias growth story
i.e. FDI etc., India and WTO, India efforts at achieving energy security.
S&T applications of emerging technologies like BT, NT, Stem Cell Research etc.,
emerging appliances in the fields of electronics, computers etc., technologies for
ecological conservation etc.
Intl institutions and issues focus on developments related to imp institutions, global
issues of relevance.
Thorough updation of current issues in all segments through news paper editorials,
magazines and interaction with co-aspirants would help make you confident in
answering the GS questions.

Essay:
With some good preparation and writing style, it is easy to get a score of above 100.
There is no standard material for the essay preparation. You will have to gather
material from various sources. The preparation should be based on the topics.
First list out the various topics from which questions can come. Then think logically,
raising questions intensively, and try to find answers for them. The main purpose will
be to gain clarity on the essay topic. Prepare a brief structure on the various topics
which can be revised before the exam.
Practise is essential for getting a good score.
While writing in the exam, first prepare a structure in the last page and show it clearly
for the examiner to follow. After selecting the topic, question intensely in various
dimensions to get a logical structure. As you get the ideas, note them down in the
structure. This process can go upto 45 minutes. Once you are satisfied that the topic
has been covered in a comprehensive manner, then start writing.
Try to give a good introduction. It should guide the examiner to what you intend to
convey in the essay. Introduction should be followed by smooth succession of paras
containing logical analysis of the topic. The conclusion should be good and satisfy the
examiner. Always conclude on a positive note.
The main focus should be on giving a good analysis of the topic.
You need not use flowery language. Simple logical presentation is sufficient.
Do not divert into areas which are irrelevant to the topic.
Make sure that you have sufficient understanding and material to write, before
chosing the topic.

Languages:
These papers are only of qualifying nature, but at the same time cannot be ignored. If
you do not qualify then your other mains papers will not be evaluated. Note that every
year there are some candidates who get disqualified. So ensure that you have the
minimum knowledge about the languages. The score should only be above 40% and
the questions are also set in such a manner that this is not difficult at all. There is no
need for any preparation. But do practise previous years papers to gain familiarity.
Those from non-English medium schools might face some difficulty in English paper.
Then the preparation should be made from some standard book. Note that the
grammar is not much tested, but it is only the functional knowledge in the language.


Similarly, some face difficulty with the Indian language paper. Ensure that you have
functional knowledge in atleast one Indian language.

Optionals:
Since 2008, no. of questions in each paper has gone up. Instead of 60 marks essay
questions of yester years, now either 2 questions of 30 marks each or 3 questions of
20 marks each or sometimes more than 3 questions are being asked.
This pattern has drastically reduced the choice and made to run after time even in
options like in GS. Frequent change of topic for every 6-8 minutes put stress on your
mind during the exam.
Clarity in the basics of the optionals, intensive writing practice, discussing topics with
co-aspirants, answering the previous papers, attending test series would help you
getting good marks.
Keeping little scope for scoring in GS, you need to score above 350 in optionals to get
into IAS.

Interview:

The Interview stage has emerged as the most deciding phase of the exam. The range of marks
awarded itself is a proof, it varies between 50 to 240. If the UPSC board feels that a candidate
is unsuitable for administration, then it awards very low marks. As a result he may not get the
desired service inspite of good performance in the mains exam. So it is very important to
prepare for the interview right from the beginning.

The personality is something that cannot be developed in few days. It is a continuous process
since your childhood. But, you can modify it suitably to get good marks in the interview. You
will have to be conscious about this aspect throughout the preparation. The personality
cannot be developed after the mains exam. The process should be started from the initial
stage.

The UPSC is looking for some traits which can be summarised below:
suitability to a public career
mental calibre
not only intellectual traits but also social traits
interest in current affairs
mental alertness
critical powers of assimilation
clear and logical exposition
balance of judgement
variety and depth of interest
ability for social cohesion and leadership
intellectual and moral integrity

In the words of former UPSC Chairman Surendra Nath, an ideal civil servant should be:
Firstly, an officer must be a gentleman. He should possess good character qualities.
He should have courage of conviction, intellectual and moral capabilities, leadership
qualities and capable of taking the right decisions at the right time. He should have


in-depth professional knowledge, self confidence, good communication skills,
analytical in his thinking, flexible and not rigid, must be able to inspire and motivate
his colleagues and his sub-ordinates. There should be a balance of judgement in
decision making.

So, you will have to improve these qualities as you progress towards the interview stage.

Note the following points:
Start specific full scale preparation for the interview, immediately after the mains
exam.
The preparation should be at two levels- the subject matter preparation and the way
you present yourself.
Use a handy cam or a mirror to see how you speak, the facial expressions,
mannerisms etc.
Keep visualizing the interview scenario and modify yourself accordingly. In
interview- you are assessed right from the moment you enter. So the following
aspects are importantThe way you walk; the way you sit down; the way you are
dresses; the enthusiasm and cheerfulness in your face; the way you talk; your
mannerisms; facial expressions; politeness; behaviour; the way you tackle the
questions; the confidence you display; the way you take leave and walk out of the
room;etc. So in all these dimensions you should keep contemplating and put your best
performance on that day.
Be very careful while filling the mains application form. This form is the basis on
which the whole interview depends. So, consult the seniors and fill the information
carefully. Through this form, you can direct the board into your strong areas, The
interview will go on expected lines and you can give well prepared answers.
The preparation areas should be Biodata ; State issues; National issues;
International issues; General issues(e.g. ragging)
Keep in mind that you will get only 5-10 seconds to respond and only 1-2 minutes to
tell the answer. So prepare in this direction for all the expected areas. You should be
in a position to counter any other supplementary questions.
The best way of preparation is to just sit and do brain storming intensively. Think
what type of questions can be asked and how you can give a simple and logical
answer. This will not come from reading many books. It requires lot of introspection.
some areas to be focused are: name; why IAS; why optionals; background of the
parents; places where you stayed; academic background and related aspects; optional
subjects; graduating subject; service preferences; positions if held; job experience if
any; hobbies; sports;
Have good knowledge about civil services, general debate, reforms etc,
Show a positive body language. You believe that you are suitable for the job. Convey
to them the message that you are the person they are looking for.
Speak slowly, clearly and audibly.
Do not try to bluff Board. You cannot substantiate if they go into depth. It is not easy
to fool such experienced persons.
Do not entertain any rumours regarding the integrity of the board. The UPSC
interviews are of the top class and the marks awarded are also proportional to what
the candidate deserves. The rumours are mainly spread by people who do not clear the
exam. Instead of criticising others, it is better to introspect and make efforts to


develop ones personality. So, go to the interview with utmost respect for the board
and confidence in their integrity. Put your best performance on that day.
The main aspect is to be calm and cool on the day of the interview. Go with high self-
esteem and self confidence. Do only those things which will increase the feel good
factor.
Take good number of mocks to get used to interview conditions.
Read the various original interviews given in the magazines to understand what the
UPSC expects from you.

Go though my interview for instance.

My Civil Services Interview-2011

The Personality Test for the Civil Services Exam, 2011 was scheduled from 19.03.2012 to
27.04.2012 and my interview was on the last day i.e. 27.04.2012 in the Morning Session.

Pre-interview activity:

I reached Delhi on 26.04.12 at 6.30 pm. I stayed in AP Bhavan, New Delhi. I woke
up at around 6 AM on interview day. I spent the first hour of that day on reading The Hindu
and the ToI on internet. The big news was that Sachin was nominated to Rajya Sabha. Its
important for me bcoz one of my hobbies is watching, playing and analyzing cricket. I have
observed some other socio-economic issues concerning our nation reported the previous day.

I got ready by 07.45 AM and had light breakfast and took auto to reach UPSC and
reached there by 8.45 AM. I am supposed to report there at 9 AM. We have entered the
historic UPSC Round Hall where the candidates are made to wait and savour the last
moments of our year long preparation. I was the 6
th
candidate to our Board in the morning
session. Of the remaining five, 3 are from Kerala, 1 from Karnataka and the other from
Gujarat. Between 9.15 & 10 AM, certificate verification and then came the news that we
were allotted Mr.Venkat Rami Reddys Board. My turn came at around 01.05 PM and
reached his chamber to face the IAS interview one last time in my life. Since this is my last
attempt and my 3
rd
interview, I have already decided not to be tense and to go with free mind.
The Board consists of a Chairman and 4 members. Here is my interview.

Ram : May I come in sir?
Chairman : (began in Telugu very casually) Randi, randi. kuchondi.. i.e. Come.. take your
seat. (I settled in the revolving seat comfortably and ready to face the interview)
Chairman : (Turning over the pages of my bio-data) You are Rambabu Vavilapalli.
Ram : Yes Sir.
Chairman : So, you have done MBA (HR).
Ram : Yes Sir. But it is actually MHRM which is equivalent to MBA.
Chairman : Are you in Railway Service recruited thru UPSC.
Ram : No sir. I am a Sr.Stenographer in Rlys recruited thru RRB.

Chairman turned towards the 1
st
member asking him to proceed.

M1 : One of your optionals is History. Tell me why was Sarojini Naidu famous in


1930s.
Ram : Sir, she was actively participating in freedom movement in the footsteps of
Gandhiji and became the President of INC. She also led the salt march at
Darshana Salt works which became violent and got broad coverage in the
media for the reasons of brutality of the British.
M1 : What is the significance of her name?
Ram : Sir, she is actually the daughter of a Bengali Educationist Aghoranatha
Chatopathyaya who settled in Hyderabad as a mulki. But when she was
married to a Telugu reformer called Govindarajula Naidu, she became Sarojini
Naidu.
M1 : Pondicherry has been a French enclave for some time in our history and was
merged into India after independence. Tell me why the natives of Pondicherry
are still fond of French culture and longing for their traditions?
Ram : Sorry sir, I am not aware of the reasons.
M1 : OK tell me what is the difference between Archaeology and History.
Ram : Sir, Archaeology deals with collection of material evidence for reconstruction
of the past. It involves excavation of materials, inscriptions etc buried beneath
the earth and conservation of historical monuments and antiques. Whereas
history deals with the chronological description of our past based on the
information gathered from various sources. Archaeology provides physical
evidence for corroborating the events described in other sources like
inscriptions, literature etc. Thus, it is an important component in writing
history.
M1 : Where is the Archaeological Society of India?
Ram : I dont know sir. (though I know, I am not confident of it)

Then, Chairman asked M2 to proceed.

M2 : As part of your subject, you might have studied modern European History.
Tell me what lessons India can learn from European history?
Ram : Sir, modern age began in Europe earlier than in India. In the late medieval
phase, lot of developments took place in the realms of economy, polity and
human thinking due to age of reason and enlightenment. European states
systems has emerged and industrial revolution had set in. The process of
modernization began late in India and was also delayed due to foreign
occupation. (I was really not getting any specific examples..so, M2 intevened.)
M2 : Its fine, you are providing the background. But, tell me specific lessons what
we can learn.
Ram : Sir, we are now in transition phase from a developing country to a developed
one. The European nations had trials and tribulations during such phase
earlier. The concept of European Union as a single market can be adopted for
India and a large South Asian Union.
M2 : (Looked surprised.keeping EU Crisis in mind) Should India learn from EU or EU
from India? See, we have a successful federal system and many of our states
are larger than some of the European nations. They were involved in several
battles. If you see, Europe was the main battle ground for the two World
Wars. Then what lessons we can learn from EU?
Ram : Sir, My intention in saying this is that we can learn lessons from the process of


formation and evolution of EU while we are aspiring for a single market of
South Asian Union with our neighbouring countries. The mistakes committed
by EU would enlighten us in streamlining our efforts. We have SAARC and
SAFTA in place but we have to reenergize them in the light of the European
experience.
M2 : Ok..what would you do to correct this if you are allotted Indian Foreign
Service (IFS).
Ram : Sir, knowing fully well that poverty and lack of development is a common
factor in India and our neighbourhood, I would strive to promote convergence
in development. I would try to revitalize South Asian Bank and South Asian
Food Bank. My priorities would be to identify the complementarities in our
aspirations and promote common endeavours.


Then Chairman asked M3 to proceed.i turned towards M3. He is very close to me on right
side and felt it difficult to maintain eye contact with other members.

M3 : We have NREGS in place. We have been allocating huge resources for it.
How much is the allocation for it in this budget?
Ram : Sir, I dont know the allocation in the present budget. In the previous budget,
it was Rs.40,000 cr and I read that it is reduced in the present budget.
M3 : Is it necessary to allocate huge resources for a single program which is
wasteful?
Ram : Sir, in the history of our development administration, NREGS has for the first
time conferred right to work as legal right. Besides creating employment, it
has several objectives. It aims at creating sustainable community assets and
sustainable agriculture. It emphasizes on undertaking water conservation
measures, creation and renovation of infrastructure related to agriculture. It
also aims at supporting the livelihood opportunities of weaker sections like
SCs and STs. In a way, it helps in neutralizing the impact of agrarian crisis.
Having said that it is also true that there allegations of corruption in the
process of implementation.
M3 : But, there are complaints from the farmers on this scheme.
Ram : Yes sir. There are two specific complaints. One is regarding hike in
minimum wage rate. Small and marginal farmers are facing difficulty as
expenditure on account of labour is mounting. Second is regarding shortage
of labour in sowing and harvesting season due to diversion of labour to
NREGS works. In view of these complaints, GOI has been taking steps to
mitigate this difficulty.
M3 : Can you explain how our planning system has evolved in the last 60 years?
Ram : Sir, the roots of our economic planning lies in pre-independence period
especially in 1930s and 40s. The people like Jawaharlal Nehru, S.C.Bose,
Visweswaraya have laid foundation for economic planning in India. After
independence, we have established two important institutions of planning in
the form of planning commission and NDC. The first one symbolizes
centralized planning and the later ensures federal component in the planning.
Plan priorities have changed from plan to plan but the basic objectives of our
planning have remained the same over the years. The nature of planning had
seen a sea change in the early 1990s. The directive planning has given place


to indicative planning. Now the role of the government and the public sector
has confined to set the targets for development and resources are provided by
the private sector. Government is more like a facilitator rather than a
controller.
M3 : In your opinion, what should be the focus of 12
th
FYP?
Ram : I strongly feel that inclusive growth and development should be prime focus.
M3 : What is inclusive growth and development?
Ram : Sir, inclusive growth refers to equitable contribution of all sections of our
society to the economic growth. We have to create opportunities for all to
participate in the growth process. Similarly, inclusive development means
equitable distribution of fruits of economic growth to all sections. Simply
speaking, the purpose of inclusive development is to eliminate socio-economic
inequalities with the process of economic development.
M3 : What is the share of defence in the total budget?
Ram : It is around 15%.
M3 : Should we spend that much of precious resources on defence when there is lot
of demand for developmental priorities?
Ram : Sir, there is no doubt that the defence spending is going up year after year.
But, sir, I believe we have to consider the security aspects of our country. We
have a very hostile neighbourhood. We have waged several wars with our
neighbours. Some of our neighbours are harbouring terrorism and
maintaining safe heavens for terrorists. Two of our neighbours are nuclear
powers like us. Our nuclear doctrine promises credible minimum nuclear
deterrence. We are close to Indian ocean which is a strategic sea lane and
gaining economic importance over the years. Sir, one thing is certain that
peace is essential for development. Therefore, both are important and
consequential to each other.

Chairman has been watching me keenly throughout the interview. Now he has
asked the last member to proceed.

M4 : You were speaking about Indian planning at length. Tell me whether the
Planning commission is constitutional body?
Ram : Sir, Planning commission is a non-constitutional body. It was created by an
executive resolution of GoI.
M4 : Then, how could Planning Commission outweigh the other bodies though
some of them have constitutional backing?
Ram : Sir, Planning commission formulates and evaluates plans and programmes.
But the nature of planning being centralized and also the composition of the
commission, planning commission is outweighing the other institutions. The
Finance Commission though being a constitutional body, it recommends
finance only to fill the revenue gap. Whereas the planning commission
recommends funds for all plan activities. The chairmanship of PM also gives
credence to planning commission. Though the composition of National
Development Commission is federal in nature, its dominated by the ruling
party and it has no institutional consistency.
M4 : What is decentralized planning?
Ram : Sir, it refers to devolution of powers of planning to local levels. It is a bottom-


up approach in planning. It enables the local people and the grass-root
institutions to participate in planning their own development. After 73
rd
and
74
th
Constitutional Amdt Acts, we have created institutions in the form of
DPCs and MPCs to ensure planning at local levels. However, we have not
been successful in creating them as true self-governing institutions. There is a
need for devolving funds, functions and functionaries to the grass-root
institutions.
M4 : Ok. But what about the powers and activities already devolved to them?
Should finances be transferred from top to bottom or they be generated by
themselves?
Ram : Sir, the constitutional amendment Acts have provided great vision but the
local bodies are not in a position to make it a reality. The activity mapping of
powers, functions and potential financial sources at each level of local
governments should be done. For this, the local institutions need to be
strengthened with skilled and efficient man power. However, some local
bodies made attempts to general finances on their own.
M4 : Can you tell me which local bodies have made such attempts?
Ram : Sir, some of the Urban local bodies like Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, etc. have
made some efforts to mobilize financial resources from financial markets by
issuing municipal bonds. I have an interesting observation about my village
which is a tiny village. We raise finances from different sources like tolls,
commission from merchants, auctioning of fish ponds, grass etc.
M4 : Thats ok. But did you find any panchayat raj institution making any attempt
to raise finances from sources other than traditional ones.
Ram : Sorry sir. I dont know.
Chairman : Thank you Rambabu. Your interview is over.
Ram : (looking at chairman and other members) Thank you very much sir.

I came out of the chamber quietly. It was around 01.30 PM. I felt relaxed and
confident throughout my interview. Except for the question related to European history, I
was never short of information and coherence. This is not a stress interview. I was given
190 marks out of 300 for this interview. Highest marks range between 225-250 and the
lowest being 40-60.





Indian History & Culture:
NCERT books for basic understanding
Indias struggle for freedom by Bipin Chandra
Modern India by Spectrum publications
For culture relevant info can be had from various sources reg. music, painting,
dances, tribes, architecture, sculpture etc. Spectrums Indian Culture.



Geography:
NCERT Books on Physical, Economic & Social Geography
Any good atlas e.g. Geography Through Maps etc.

Indian Polity:
Indian polity by Lakshmi Kant
Introduction to Constt of India by DD Basu

Indian Economy:
Indian Economy by Dutta&Sundaram or Mishra & Puri
An Evolution of Indian Economy by I.C.Dhingra (Sultan Chand & Co)
Economic Survey of India (Annual publication by GoI get soft copy from Fin.
Ministry website).

Current Issues:
The Hindu esp Editorials, S&T edition, Business edition, Last page for envt
conservation etc. for social social & economic issues.
Frontline for cover stories on current issues
Websites of Ministries for latest updates on govt. programmes, annual reports etc.
One competitive exam magazine like CS Chronicle or CS Times etc.
India Year Book Annual publication by GoI for govt. programmes, projects, latest
initiatives, sectoral updates.
Manorama Year Book & Yojana (English)
Current Issues book RC Publications or Comp. Wizard
NCERT book on Democracy & India for basic info on some social issues.
Listen to Spot Light on AIR @ 9 PM daily.

India & the world:
NCERT book on Democracy & India for basic info on Indias relations with
neighbours and important countries.
The Hindu very imp source for changing dynamics in foreign relations facts and
analysis.
MEA website (www.mea.gov.in) imp source for current updates
India Year Book & website of Min. of Overseas Affairs for Indian diaspora.
www.idsa.in for security issues

Indias economic interaction with the world:
Annual report of Min of Petroleum & Natural Gas ministry for issues related to
O&G policy
Any GS guide for basics about IMF, WTO, WB etc. and Indias role
Indian Year Book for India & IMF.

General Science & Technology:
NCERT books on physics, chemistry and Biology
ICSE books on biology


B.Tech book on Environmental Science imp source for envt concepts.
Hindus S&T edition
Hindu Speaks on Science
Spectrums S&T
Internet is the good source for refernece

Statistical analysis, graphs and diagrams
Spectrum publications on Statistics

CSAT
Material of TIME Institute or
Any other material relevant to CAT/Banking exams




Paper-I

Chapter-I: Introduction
Mohit Bhattacharya: New Horizons of Public Administration
Nicholas Henry : Public Administration and Public Affairs
Laxmikant - PAd

Chapter-II: Administrative thought
D. Ravindra Prasad, V.S. Prasad and P. Satyanarayana : Administrative Thinkers
Laxmikant - PAd

Chapter-III: Administrative Behaviour
Stephen P. Robbin : Organisational Behaviour
Laxmikant - PAd

Chapter-IV: Organisations :
Mohit Bhattacharya : New Horizons of Public Administration

Chapter-V: Accountability and Control:
Mohit Bhattacharya : New Horizons of Public Administration
Rajnish Goyal- Indian Admn.
Laxmikant - PAd
2
nd
ARC Report on Citizen Centric Admn

Chapter-VI: Administrative Law:
Avasthi & Maheswari PAd.

Chapter-VII: Comparative Public Administration:
R.K. Arora : Comparative Public Administration



Chapter-VIII: Development Dynamics:
Mohit Bhattacharya- New horizons + another book on Devp admn

Chapter-IX: Personnel Administration:
Sadhana & Sharma OR Avasthi & Maheswari
2
nd
ARC Report on Civil Services

Chapter-X: Public Policy :
IGNOU Lessons on Public Policy
R. K. Sapra : Public Policy

Chapter-XI- Techniques of Administrative Improvement
Avasthi & Maheswari, Internet

Chapter-XII: Financial Administration
Avasthi & Maheswari, Rajnish Goyal Indian Admn.
M. J. K. Thavaraj :Public Financial Administration
Laxmikant PAd.

PAPER II
Indian Administration

Chapter-I: Evolution of Indian Administration
Laxmikanth-P.Ad;
Rajnish Goyal Indian Admn.

Chapter-II: Philosophical and Constitutional framework of government:
Laxmikanth-Polity
Rajnish Goyal Indian Admn.

Chapter III- Public Sector Undertakings
Laxmikanth-P.Ad,
India Year Book

Chapter-IV: Union Government and Administration
Laxmikanth-PAd.;
Rajnish Goyal Indian Admn.

Chapter V Plans and Priorities
Laxmikanth-PAd.;
Rajnish Goyal Indian Admn.

Chapter-VI: State Government and Administration
Laxmikanth-PAd
Rajnish Goyal Indian Admn.
2
nd
ARC Report on State & Dist Govts



Chapter-VII: District Administration since independence
Laxmikanth-PAd.; Rajnish Goyal Indian Admn.
2
nd
ARC Report on State & Dist Govts.

Chapter-VIII: Civil Services
Laxmikanth-Pad.;
Rajnish Goyal Indian Admn.,
2
nd
ARC Report on Civil Services.

Chapter IX - Financial Management
M. J. K. Thavaraj :Public Financial Administration
2
nd
ARC Report on Financial Management
Laxmikanth-PAd.;
Rajnish Goyal Indian Admn.,

Chapter-X: Administrative Reforms since independence
Rajnish Goyal Indian Admn.,
2
nd
ARC Report on Civil Services history of reforms part
Laxmikanth-PAd.;

Chapter-XI: Rural Development
Rajnish Goyal Indian Admn.,
2
nd
ARC Report on Local Govt.
2
nd
ARC Report on Human Capital
Laxmikanth-PAd.;

Chapter-XII - Urban Development
Rajnish Goyal Indian Admn.,
2
nd
ARC Report on Local Govt.
Laxmikanth-PAd.;

Chapter-XIII: Law & Order Admn.
Any notes,
2
nd
ARC Report on Public Order

Chapter-XIV: Significant issues in Indian Admn.
Values in Public Service- 2
nd
ARC Report on Civil Services; 2
nd
ARC Report on
Ethics in Governance,
Reg.Commissions Avasthi & Maheswari, 2
nd
ARC Report on Govt Structure
Reforms
Citizen-admn interface Laxmikanth PAd, 2
nd
ARC Report on Citizen Centric Admn.
Disaster Mgmt 2
nd
ARC Report on Crisis Mgmt
Corruption & Admn Rajnish Goyal PAd.
Admn in coalition regimes internet
NHRC any std. source for basics and internet for assessment of its performance.

Note:
1. Issues of IIPA journals are of good use for all the chapters, but be selective.




Paper-I
Ancient India:
NCERT Class XI - Ancient India **
Ancient History of India LP Sharma
A history of India RomillaThapar**
Ancient India V.D.Mahajan
Ancient India D.N.Jha
A wonder that was India A.L.Bhasham
IGNOU PG material**
Social Cultural and Economic History of India S.C.Rayachaudary**

Medieval India:
NCERT Class XI Medieval India **
Medieval India IrfanHabib**
Advanced study in the history of Medieval India J L Mehta**
History of Medieval India V.D.Mahajan
Social Cultural and Economic History of India S.C.Rayachaudary**
IGNOU PG material**

Paper-II
Modern India:**
NCERT Class XIIModern India
Indias Struggle for Independence Bipin Chandra
India since independence Bipin Chandra
Modern Indian History- Grover & Grover
Social Cultural and Economic History of India S.C.Rayachaudary
IGNOU PG material

Modern World: **
A study of European History & Modern world (1453-1815) L.Mukherjee
A study of European History & Modern world (1815-1950) L.Mukherjee
Masterning Modern World History Norman Lowe
IGNOU PG material

Note:
IGNOU PG material is available online on egnankosh of IGNOUR website.
For map pointing Prominent sites of Indian Subcontinent by Sanjay Sharma **
History Mains Q&A of Civil Services Chronicle good for previous question papers**.

** ----- Must read






Exclusive inputs from Sri.R.Vineel Krishna, IAS (Orissa cadre)

Hobbies:
While filling up the mains application form, there is a column for the hobbies and
other interests. It is better to cultivate some hobby rather than leaving it blank. So be
prepared for this aspect from the initial stages itself. It helps a lot in the interview if
the questions are asked from your interest areas. You can also think of some peculiar
hobbies to attract the interviewer. But be careful that you have a genuine interest in
that area and do gather good information so as to answer any question.

Some of the hobbies of candidates are:
- reading books
- listening to music, even some specific variety say telugu old songs.
- reading short stories
- Philately and numismatics
- bird watching
- cooking
- conducting alcohol de-addiction camps
- social work
- teaching
-yoga and meditation
- weapon systems
- physical fitness
- world war 2

Ideal Timetable:
Many candidates give their first attempt without even properly chosing the optionals
or completing the syllabus. This is a wrong step which will have severe consequences
later on. This exam can be cleared in the first attempt itself with focused preparation
and Satisfycing approach. Mainly, the thought that the exam requires multiple
attempts should be removed from the mind. With right information and proper
material, and sustained hard work for an year, there is no reason why someone should
not clear the exam.

The preparation with full momentum should start atleast one year before the prelims.
Ideally, the preparation should be started in May and by December the mains syllabus
should be completed to a large extent. Then from January, prelims preparation should
be made, while consolidating the mains knowledge. After the prelims, the preparation
should be continued with out any break. The next 5 months will be very crucial and
the preparation should be at full momentum. The syllabus in any case should be
completed by July. Atleast two months are required for the revisions.

After the mains exam, interview preparation should be started. Simultaneously,
prelims preparation should also be made. This is important since the final result will
be given only days before next prelims. In case of failure, you should be in a position


to give next prelims. So, from the beginning it is better to be prepared for this
possiblity.
After the mains result, more focus should be made on interview preparation.

Studying while doing a job:
The exam requires complete devotion for an year. So it will be difficult if some one
wants to manage both the job and the exam. Also, it might be difficult to get leaves
for various stages of the exam. It is better to make the preparation full-time.

However, if there are any financial problems, then please continue with a job. But be
aware that you will have to work harder. So be prepared for tough time. Ensure that
you do not waste time on any other activities. There are quite a few who cleared the
exam while doing a job.

Whether doing a job or studying post graduation, the only requirement is to get
sufficient time for preparing well for the exam. So take a wise decision based on the
personal situation and requirements.

How to Study?
The main requirement when you sit for studying is total concentration. Without 100%
focus, whatever time you spent on study will only be a waste. You should not do
things which will be distracting when studying. The room should also be neat as it has
an impact on the mental conditions. So you should always ensure that the situation
should be tuned to have a concentrated study. Even what you do when not studying is
also quite important. Suppose you go for a movie because of boredom, then after
coming back when you sit for studying then there is every possibility of not focusing
completely as all the scenes from the movie starts flowing in your thoughts. Thats
why its important to ensure that you dont do distracting things even when you are not
studying. If you feel tired, you can go for a walk or listen to some lecture or calm
music. So, first requirement for study is the context which you create for youself to
have 100% concentration.

Then, you should go very slow while reading trying to understand the core
concepts.The technique which can be applied is called SQ3R.

Scan- first scan the material and try to get an awareness about what you are going
to read.

Question- Then question the topic intensively in all possible dimensions. The
questions should be logical, which will give you the clarity on the subject.

Read- only after above steps, you should start reading the material slowly and
with proper understanding. You should try to get the answers for all the logical
questions that you raised. Simultaneously, you should prepare notes for the topic.

Remember- You should try to remember the basic logical structure and the
important facts. You can use mnemonics to improve memory. You should not try
to remember the sentences, but should have a structure in the mind with the key


terms. Based on this, you should be able to expand it into an essay. Note that you
should be very careful while trying to memorise. You should spend more time in
memorising them the first time itself. Do not postpone it, as you will be wasting
more time lateron in understanding it again and remembering. While, memorising
it ensure that it is memorised in such a way that it can be recollected in the exam
hall. The memorising should be done as in a computer, with files and folders
system. You should guide the information to be placed in various folders of your
brain memory.

Revision- It is not possible for anyone to remember everything that they read. Lot
of revision has to be made at regular intervals. In fact before exam, you should be
able to do 3-4 revisions. You should try to improve the efficiency of the revision.
So the notes should be prepared in such a manner that the revision becomes easy.
How to improve efficiency of revision- should be always on your mind.

Using this technique, the study can be made very productive. The hard efforts
made can be channelised in the right direction.


How to prepare notes?
The notes has to be prepared for every topic in the syllabus. This aspect is the most
crucial stage in the preparation. Finally what you write in the exam only matters. You
write only what you remember. You remember only that which you revise just before
the exam. Note that you will have to revise some thing like 2000 topics including all
the sub-parts in GS and optionals. Therefore your efficiency in revision matters a lot
for your performance in the exam. The revision efficiency depends on the notes that
you prepare. So you should always be aware of this practical aspect while you prepare
notes for the exam.

The notes should not be prepared as if writing a thesis paper. For any topic, you
should have a brief synopsis. Do not even use sentences while writing notes. Note
down the key terms and the logical structure with side headings. Also note down the
figures and diagrams in a simple manner which can be reproduced in the exam within
time limit.
For most topics, one or two pages of notes is sufficient. Write them down in a logical
framework using different inks, so that your efficiency in revision increases. Finally,
when revising just before the exam, you cannot spend more than 5-10 minutes for
each topic. So keep that in mind always.

Do not spend days together on any topic. The exam only requires a basic clarity
which can be obtained by studying one or two standard books and spending more
time on thinking. Usually, 3-4 hrs sufficient for each topic. Just be cautious if you are
spending more time on any topic inspite of availability of good material.


Revision:
This a very important for the performance in the exam. The efficiency with which you
do revision determines the grip on the subject matter. It should not be postponed till


the last phase. As you keep preparing, some time should be spent in revising and
consolidating what you read. Otherwise, when you start revision in the end,
everything will appear new and lot of time has to be spent in deciphering the notes
made. This will be very counter productive and all the hard work will be a waste.

So, revision should also become a part of your everyday schedule. Dont think its a
waste of time, since finally you will save a lot and the pressure will also reduce.
Therefore, revise what you read next day. Then keep coming back to it at regular
intervals.

Finally, before the exam you should keep two months for the revision. It has to be
done again and again, as many times as possible.

Be very careful while preparing notes, keeping in view the requirements of the
revision.


Where to prepare?
In any complex situation, the right information at the right time plays a very key role.
Similarly, for this complex exam, information has a role. So, you should have the
information channels throughout the exam preparation period. This will ensure that
you are on the right track.

In this context, the place of preparation becomes important. It is better to be close to
where many aspirants are preparing. The main places of exam preparation are
Hyderabad and Delhi. There will lot of study material and information circulating in
these areas. Also, psychologically it is better if you have co-aspirants with whom you
can share your experiences and the mistakes.

In case you are not in a position to do so, do not worry. But ensure that you are
getting the right information. So try to establish some contacts with persons in those
areas.


How to write answers?
Your answer is the medium through which you are communicating with the examiner. Your
final marks depend on how best you can convey to the examiner. Otherwise, all you study
and hard work is irrelevant. So ensure that you perform the best while presenting the answer.

The important steps are:
o the pen that you use. Please spent some time in identifying the right pen using which
your efficiency increases and the written matter looks like a print.
o the hand writing can influence the marks by 5-10%. It is the first impression on the
examiner and matters a lot. It not just sufficient to have a mere legible hand writing.
This is a problem area for many and quite difficult to change it at this stage. But
contact some hand writing experts and make suitable changes in your writing so that
it looks better.


o You can contact: Mallikarjun, National Handwriting Academy, Hyderabad.
Ph.no. 55579800, www.ymallikarjun.com, write2nha@rediffmail.com
o Next the matter that we write in the answer is important. It is about how logically we
present the answer.You will have to structure the answer in such a way that it
becomes easy for the examiner to identify the various dimensions in the answer.
o concentrate on the introduction and the conclusions.
o underline the important terms that you use.
o make innovations like diagrams etc to impress the examiner and to convey the
concept better.
o for analysis type use the paragraph form, while for the factual answers you can use
point form. But remember that the examiner is not interested in your memory, but in
your analytical and intellectual abilities. So try to include them in your answer.
o you can use different colours for the diagrams.
o for long answers, you can make a brief structure in the end before writing the answer.
This will help you in ensuring that all the points are written.

How to remember?
This is the common question before a civils aspirant. There is such a huge syllabus and so
many facts to memorise that some times it seems impossible. Anyhow, remembering is
some thing that has to be done well for good performance in the exam.

Information is to be stored as done in a computer. You will have to direct the information
to store it in your brain system. Do not merely mug and memorise facts. You will have to
develop inter linkages based on what you already know.

Do not try to remember unnecessary numerical facts.

Use mnemonics for remembering facts or some points. The popular mnemonic is the
VIBGYOR to remember the colours sequence in a rainbow. Prepare similar mnemonics
based on innovations. Your real intelligence depends on how efficient you become in this
area.

Regular revision is essential to ensure that what you remember stays in your mind till the
exam date. So keep a regular revision schedule.


Stress Management:
The civils exam is highly stressful and pressurising. It is in fact testing the mental
strength of the candidate. The administrator in the Indian context has to deal with very
complex and testing situations. So the exam structure and the process is aimed at
preparing the candidates for the real administration. Therefore, take the process as a
learning experience.
The stress cannot be avoided, you will have to learn how to manage stress. There are
no hard and fast rules for stress management. It is individual specific and has to be
developed on your own based on observation.
Some of the following points may be helpful:
o Stress means a disharmony between the mind and the body. The body is in the
present moment while the mind keeps fluctuating. It is either regretting the


past, anxious about future or dreaming an imaginary situation. This
disharmony between the mind and the body is the main reason for the
accumulation of stress. So, it is important to live in the present moment, i.e,
concentrate 100% on what you do. In this context, the breath techniques,
pranayama and Sudarshan Kriya will help a lot.
o Take deep slow breaths whenever you feel stressed or tensed. Close your eyes
and observe the breath. Keep doing this till you feel light and focused.
o Go out for a long walk .
o if you feel agitated in the mind, dont do things which will aggravate the
agitation. For e.g. dont go to a movie. That will only worsen the situation.
The idea is to calm down the mind, so do things which will reduce the
agitation. In fact, these are the critical moments which have a major impact on
your preparation. So, be very careful during these phases.
o talk to some one with whom you can share your emotions without any
inhibition.
o Go out for a marathon running whenever you feel depressed or
psychologically low. This a very practical method of overcoming emotions.
Put all your frustration in running harder and harder. At the end of it, you will
feel great mental calmness.
o Meet people who can give you inspiration and motivation.
o listen to good music or lectures by great people.
o Practise meditation. This is a very effective way of improving the energy flow.


For aspirants in the long term:
There are many school and undergraduates who have the target of joining the civil service. At
this stage there is not much to be done for the exam. However they can note the following
points:
o build a good academic record
o chose such subjects which will be helpful for the exam later on.
o if interested and if there are good reputed colleges then join the arts courses.
However, even if you have to join the professional courses, do not worry. They will
act as an alternative, since this exam has less vacancies and is often risky. But, do
concentrate on your courses and excel in the field.
o Read the newspapers and good magazines like the Frontline regularly. You should
have a good awareness of whats going on around you.
o Cultivate a habit of participating in extra-curricular activities especially those
involving organising abilties, GK, quizzes, etc.
o Develop some good hobbies
o Improve your personality traits
o learn to spend lots of time reading books and studying
o you should read the life stories of great people as an inspiration. Also, meet the
successful people in various fields.
o listen to good programs on radio and TV.

Health:
The importance of good health should be understood very clearly. This exam is of
very long duration, under severe psychological stress. If suppose you become sick at


any stage, you will have to write the exam again and lose out on another year and
half. Say, you are not well on the day of the interview, then you cannot put your best
and fall back in final ranking. The UPSC will not shift the date of the interview. It is
you who will be at loss finally. And, who knows what will happen in the next attempt.
So, it is very important to take care of the health throughout the exam preparation
period.Remember - Healthy mind in a healthy body. Please note the following points:
o Get up early in the morning. It is the best time to make the body vibrations in
tune with that of the natures.
o spend the first few hours in fitness activities. This is not a waste of time, but
an investment. It ensures that the whole day is active and focused.
o take care of the water and the food that you eat. Do not eat junk food which
will not help in anyway.
o practise jogging everyday
o learn and practise yoga, pranayama and meditation. They will develop the
mental fitness, which is most essential in studying for long with concentration,
to excel in the exam.

An important dimension in life which is grossly ignored is the breath. A person can
live for a few days without food or water, but cannot exist for a few minutes without
air. We take unnecessary care about food and water, but ignore the breath. The more
oxygen we take the better will be the burning efficiency of carbohydrates in the cells.
With more energy, the cells perform to their maximum capacity and the body
becomes very active. This is also important to have good focus on whatever we do.
However, we use only 25% of the lung capacity. That is the reason why we do not
function to our potential. In India, there were ancient techniques which have been
developed to increase the capacity of the lungs and to use them to their full potential.
They are called the Pranayama techniques.

In fact, the breath can be used to control the emotions in the mind, like using a thread
to control the kite. There is a direct relation between the breath and the emotions in
the mind. Observe the breath as the emotions change. If you are angry or depressed,
the breath is shallow, short and rapid. If you are in a cool and happy serene mood,
then observe that the breath is deep and of long duration. Normally, the breath is
involuntary and its rhythm depends on the emotions. But through some techniques,
you can reverse the process. That is by controlling the rhythm of breath, you can
control the emotions in the mind. It is important to learn these techniques since they
help a lot in preparation for the exam. You will have to sit and study for long
durations throughout the year. Above that there will be lot of pressures both social
and psychological. To face them all, it is important to manage the emotions in the
mind.

In this context, the Sudarshan Kriya taught by the Art of Living Foundation assumes
significance. There is a basic course organised in various centres under which the
kriya and the pranayama techniques are taught. This is highly recommended for the
civil services aspirants. There are also many advanced yoga courses under the
foundation. They are also useful for stress management and personality development.
There will also be a remarkable improvement in the health. You will become very
active and the efficiency and productivity increases.



Website: www.artofliving.org
Address: 5
th
Floor, RK Plaza, near Punjagutta Cross Roads, on left side in the route
from Punjagutta towards Begumpet, Hyderabad.
Ph.No.23400782, 55218418

Marathon/Jogging - There are many similarities between the civils exam and the
marathon running. Both require lot of patience, determination, hard work, mental
strength and physical stamina. This marathon is a practical way of developing the
required capabilities to become successful in the exam. It will help a lot if the aspirant
can go to a ground every morning and practice this technique. It will not only keep
him physically fit, but also make him mentally tough and prepare him for the
psychological stresses during the exam.

Diary Writing
The candidate will be going through a lot of emotionally fragile moments due to the pressure
of the exam. These are the real turning points since they determine whether he can handle
that pressure or succumb to it. So, in order to manage the stress at that time diary writing is
an effective technique. Normally, such moments can be managed well if you can talk to some
one with whom you can talk freely without any inhibitions. But since the preparation would
be mostly done in isolation, this may not be possible. So, the diary can come to rescue during
that period. This is nothing but ventilation therapy which will help you reduce the emotional
burden. Another advantage of diary writing is that every day you will have some time for
introspection. It can be analysed how best you utilised that day for your studies and in case
it has not been productive, then find out the reasons and eliminate them. In this manner, every
day you can be very focussed on the exam and tackle effectively all distracting tendencies.


Books and cassettes:
You should make it a habit to read good books and listen to good talks or music. The exam
preparation is all about how you make the mind calm so that you can study with full
concentration. There will be occasions when you will feel frustrated and depressed. During
that phase, you can gain motivation or inspiration from books or talks or music.

Some of the following can prove to be useful:
o Talks by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar of Art of Living, especially the talk on The Four
Pillars of Knowledge
o The Mind and its control by Swami Buddhananda (Ramakrishna Math)
o Books by Swami Vivekananda
o Life stories of Gandhi, Patel, Nehru, Abdul Kalam, Marie Curie,
o The Alchemist by Paoulo Coelho
o Talks by Swami Ranganatha of Ramakrishna Math
o Carnatic music
o Music by Bismillah Khan, Hari Prasad Chaurasia, etc which are help in calming down
a disturbed mind.
o Books on meditation.
o India after Independence by Bipan Chandra




Book Shop:
Most of the books that are required can be obtained from the following shops
Book Square - near Kachiguda cross roads, Near Maheshwari-Parameshwari theatres.
Jawahar Book Depot - Ber Sarai, Near Old JNU, New Delhi. The exact address and
phone no. can be obtained from the ads in competition.

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