The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination is a challenging milestone in the journey of an aspirant. After securing the minimum qualifying marks in the UPSC CSE mains examination, candidates are invited for the Personality Test/Interview. The number of candidates called for the interview is approximately twice the number of vacancies. The interview, worth 275 marks, does not have a minimum qualifying mark. Hence, the candidate's final selection is dependent on their performance in both the mains examination and the interview.
To excel in the UPSC interview, it's crucial to understand its underlying purpose. The UPSC Interview aims to evaluate the candidates’ aptitude and mental capabilities for a career in public service. It assesses not only intellectual qualities but also social traits and interest in current affairs.
The UPSC interview is not intended to be a gruelling cross-examination but a structured and purposeful dialogue designed to evaluate the mental aptitude of the candidate. To perform well in the interview, the candidate must display the following attributes.
- Alertness of mind.
- Ability to critically assimilate information.
- Clarity and logic in expression.
- Balanced judgement.
- Diversity and depth of interest.
- Capacity for social cohesion and leadership.
- Intellectual and moral integrity.
Alertness of Mind
Candidates should attentively listen and comprehend the questions asked during the UPSC interview. If necessary, they may politely request the panel members to repeat the question. Continually asking for repetition may indicate a lack of mental alertness.
Ability to Critically Assimilate Information
This refers to the ability to analyze and interpret the information presented to you critically, rather than accepting it at face value.
Clarity and Logic in Expression
Candidates should be able to articulate their thoughts clearly and logically. They should strive to avoid ambiguity in their responses. Each response should be well-founded and devoid of broad generalizations.
Balanced Judgement
An impartial and balanced perspective on topics and events is crucial. Candidates should steer clear of bias and demonstrate the ability to judiciously evaluate issues by weighing their various aspects.
Diversity and Depth of Interest
As the civil servants selected through UPSC CSE are generalists, they should display a genuine interest in a wide range of issues pertinent to the public.
Capacity for Social Cohesion and Leadership
Candidates' responses should indicate their capacity to lead and understand the significance of social cohesion while performing their duties. This quality is vital for delivering results in public services.
Intellectual and Moral Integrity
Moral integrity involves doing what's right under all circumstances, while intellectual integrity means staying true to one's rational thinking and maintaining the same standards when dealing with others. Candidates' responses should reflect these two essential qualities.
The UPSC interview panel evaluates all the above-mentioned qualities. Understanding what they're being tested for in the interview can help candidates excel in the UPSC interview.
For more insights into "what kind of questions are asked in the interview?", candidates can refer to the linked article.
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