mistakes to avoid in UPSC Mains

A minor mistake might ruin your hopes of succeeding as an IAS officer. All of us are conscious of how difficult and intensely challenging the UPSC tests are. It has been observed that the majority of students engage in the blame game after failing an exam; however, passing the UPSC is not solely a matter of chance. There is no doubt that any student who wants to be an IAS or IPS leaves no question regarding the preparation for the UPSC exams. Still, the majority of students make mistakes unintentionally or as a result of inadequate comprehension or guidance, which may cause them to fall short of their objective. 

The following things that you should definitely avoid when taking the IAS exam.

1. Not Sticking to UPSC Syllabus

The crux of the exam and the most valuable part is the UPSC Syllabus. As opposed to widespread belief, the UPSC syllabus does not cover every topic conceivable. You should involve the syllabus as a rule for your planning. It is intriguing, and following the schedule will go far toward assisting you with saving time and be totally ready for the test. Knowing the UPSC syllabus top to bottom prior to planning is prompted on the grounds that it fills in as your road map.

2. Not Taking Mock Tests Seriously

One of the frequent errors is taking mock tests for granted. Regardless of how thoroughly you study for the exam and how many books you’ve read. Unless you take the mock exam, all of your efforts will be useless. Students can identify their skills and weaknesses by taking the mock exam. Additionally, it gives them more confidence to take the tests. Experts say that it is not a good idea to put off taking the mock exam until the very last day. Because it is advantageous to have some time to fix the faults made on the practice test.

3. Studying Without A Study Plan

The IAS exam preparation process is clearly dragged out and laborious.It’s important to have a good plan for this kind of battle. Prior to the beginning of the preparation process, candidates should create a study schedule for themselves that they may use in cooperation with any IAS institution of which they have been part. Just with cautious arranging will it be feasible to complete the IAS course on time despite everything and then possess energy for review work and practice tests. Setting feasible everyday, week after week, and month to month objectives for them to verify will likewise raise their spirit.

4. Selecting Wrong Optional

The scores on the two optional papers significantly influence the rank on the overall merit list. Almost all candidates make the grave mistake of deciding on the wrong optional subject. While selecting, excessive caution requires. It must be guaranteed that interest in the subject and other facets, such as the accessibility of study materials, coaching, etc., drive the UPSC selection. It would be much preferable for applicants to choose their graduation topic as an optional. However, this is another private subject best left for the individual to decide. 

5. Not Practicing Writing

In most of the kids, it has been noted that they seem to just be concerned with reading and feel that writing is a waste of time. This approach could be highly detrimental in subjective tests like the UPSC mains. Writing is Equally significant and deserving of practice time.

6. Continuous Sitting & Studying

You can’t be a machine that can read and study nonstop for hours on end. You have completely miscalculated if you consider that taking breaks wastes time. It is nearly impossible to study nonstop for a lengthy period. We require breaks because when as humans, we are working on something for a very long time. Breaks are crucial for UPSC candidates to renew their bodies and minds. However, it should emphasize that breaks should only be for a reasonable amount of time, such as 15 to 20 minutes, and not longer. Short breaks boost efficiency and recall, according to studies.

7. Balancing Approach

Candidates for the UPSC exam must possess a fair perspective on all issues. Today, engaging in arguments and developing polarized opinions on subjects is simple. The responses ought to write in the style of a future diplomat or public worker. Applicants ought to go over each issue’s benefits and drawbacks without bringing up personal biases. The solutions offered should be reasonable, rational, and positive rather than excessive.

8. Low Confidence

Many applicants tend to cave in to pressures of various kinds on the arduous journey to the desired IAS position. A variety of taunts, including those from family and friends, may direct at them. Aspirants should block out negativity and begin relying only on themselves if they are certain of their end aim. You may achieve all that by taking brief breaks from the preparation. And Above everything else, keep an optimistic attitude!