What to do after UPSC Prelims - Strategies for Main Exam Preparation

Kickstart your UPSC Main Exam Preparation Without Delay

You will have around 2.5 to 3 months for the UPSC Main exam preparation. But is this duration adequate? The answer varies from person to person. While some aspirants have managed to clear the main exam by dedicating only 2-3 months, others have struggled. If you have already covered the main exam syllabus, then this time frame should be sufficient. However, if you haven't had the time to prepare for the main exam prior to the prelims, you will need to put in extra effort and make every day count. Let's delve into how well-prepared you are for the main exam by understanding its essential components.

What does the Main exam preparation entail?

To be fully prepared for the main examination, you should:

• Have covered the syllabus topics
• Be well-prepared for your optional subject
• Have revised the syllabus 3-5 times for better retention of facts
• Have attempted 5-10 mock tests
• Have evaluated your answer sheet and identified your mistakes
• Have solved question papers from the past 3-5 years

These tasks are essential for a good performance in the main examination. Remember, each aspirant is unique. Therefore, based on your performance in the mock tests, you need to decide the number of revisions and answer writing practice needed. Let's look at some Do’s and Don’ts After the Preliminary Examination. Do’s

• Take a short break of 2-3 days and then dive into your main exam preparation.
• Before you begin your preparation, go through past years’ question papers . Understand the kind of questions that are asked in the main exam. Identify important areas or topics that are frequently asked.
• If you have already covered the main exam topics, focus on revision and mock tests .
• Mock tests should be evaluated by experts. After receiving your marked paper, make sure to analyse it thoroughly. Note down your mistakes and ensure not to repeat them.
• Choose an optional subject that interests you and has a good scoring potential . Read the article on How to Choose an Optional Subject for UPSC for guidance.
• A high score in the optional subject can boost your overall score and rank. So, prepare thoroughly for the optional subject.
• Ensure to revise 3-5 times before the main exam.
• Prepare well for the Essay paper. Compile a list of important topics and gather sufficient information and data for each essay.
• Solve past years’ question papers.

Don’ts

• Do not delay your preparation until the prelims results are declared.
• Do not underestimate the English or Indian language paper.
• Do not question your abilities or overthink.

The Civil Services examination is highly competitive. Consistency in your preparation is key. Many aspirants miss the cut-off by a narrow margin. Therefore, devise a plan, adhere to it religiously, and always believe in your abilities.
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