Building Analytical Skills for the IAS Exam
Here are some effective tips on how to enhance your analytical skills for the IAS Exam.
1. Go beyond theoretical knowledge
Purely knowing facts won’t suffice for the
IAS examination
. You need to delve into the intricacies of the subjects. For example, if you are studying about the Goods and Services Tax (GST), understand its implementation, impact and issues associated with it.
2. Master the basics
It is crucial to have a strong grasp of the basic concepts. Only when you understand the fundamentals of a subject can you analyse it in depth.
3. Focus on how and why, not just what
When studying a topic, aim to understand the ‘how’ and ‘why’ instead of just the ‘what’. For instance, if you are reading about a new government policy, try to comprehend why it was introduced and how it is expected to impact the society.
4. Read editorials
Editorials provide valuable insights into various relevant and trending news items. As a UPSC aspirant, you should develop a habit of reading editorials, particularly those in ‘The Hindu’.
5. Engage in brain-stimulating games
Participating in brain-stimulating activities like chess, riddles, etc. can hone your logical and thinking skills, which will help you in developing an analytical mindset for the UPSC
civil services exam
.
6. Take a holistic approach and connect the dots
Always try to view a topic from multiple perspectives. This will give you a comprehensive understanding of things. Also, try to establish connections between different topics. For example, the problem of air pollution is linked to numerous factors like industrial growth, vehicular emissions, waste management, etc.
7. Be inquisitive
To truly develop analytical abilities, you need to be curious. Ask questions to understand the root cause of any problem. For example, if there is a rise in cybercrime, try to understand its origin and contributing factors. Don't just settle for superficial knowledge. Be inquisitive and strive to find the answers.
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