By Owais Ali Bhat, Director – Chanakya IAS Academy Jammu

Understand Why You Want to Do This

Before you pick up Polity or NCERTs, ask yourself: Why do you want to become a civil servant? This isn’t a motivational gimmick. UPSC isn’t just a syllabus to crack; it’s a life to live. If your “why” isn’t clear, the pressure, the uncertainty, and the long haul will drain you out.

Write your reason on a sticky note and paste it on your study table. That’s your compass.

Know What You’re Signing Up For

UPSC CSE is a three-stage exam—Prelims, Mains, and Interview. Each has a different mindset, strategy, and skill set.

– Prelims tests your accuracy and risk management.
– Mains tests your depth and articulation.
– Interview tests your personality, not your facts.

Read the UPSC syllabus carefully. And I mean really read it. Understand what it demands from you.

Start with NCERTs—But With Understanding

Yes, NCERTs are important. But don’t read them like textbooks—read them like a citizen.

Start with these:
– History: 6th to 12th
– Geography: 6th to 12th
– Polity: 9th to 12th (and then Laxmikanth)
– Economy: 11th, 12th (then Sanjiv Verma or similar)

Make short notes from Day 1. UPSC rewards those who prepare with revision in mind.

Current Affairs: Read the Newspaper, Don’t Just Collect It

Read The Hindu or Indian Express—not to finish it, but to understand why something is happening.

Ask:
– What is the issue?
– Why is it important?
– What are its implications?

You don’t need to remember every name or number. You need to form an opinion.

Choose Your Optional Wisely

Don’t choose an optional just because it’s scoring or trending. Choose it based on:
– Your interest
– Background (academic or personal)
– Availability of resources and guidance
– Syllabus overlap with GS

Remember, optional can make or break your rank.

Make a Realistic Plan (And Stick to It)

Don’t make a timetable that looks good on paper but is impossible in real life.

Start with 6 hours a day if you’re new. Focus on building consistency over intensity.

Don’t Just Read—Write

From the very first month, practice answer writing. You don’t have to be perfect, but you have to start.

Even if you’re just writing answers to GS questions from previous years or editorial-based questions—that’s gold.

Get Guidance, Not Dependence

There is no shame in asking for help. Join a mentorship program, attend orientation sessions, or speak with seniors.

But don’t rely blindly on toppers’ strategies. Your path will look different. Use their insights, not their routine.

Take Care of Your Mind and Body

UPSC can get lonely. There will be self-doubt. There will be burnout.

Eat well. Sleep enough. Walk, meditate, talk to your family. This exam doesn’t just test your brain—it tests your resilience.

Remember: It’s Not Just About Clearing the Exam

Even if you don’t become an IAS or IPS officer, the person you become in this journey—disciplined, aware, evolved—is someone worth becoming.


If you’re still reading this, I want you to know: You have what it takes. Not because you’re perfect. But because you’re ready to start.

Just take that first step—with clarity, discipline, and a belief that you’ll figure out the rest.

And remember, I’m always here to walk this path with you.

Owais Ali Bhat
Director, Chanakya IAS Academy Jammu
15 Years. Thousands of Aspirants. One Dream.