Cracking UPSC IAS Exam in 3 Months: A Comprehensive Guide

Every year millions of applicants apply for IAS examinations for a mere few hundred posts. This level of competition is substantial, and the extensive material and unexpected exam structure make it even more challenging. Many IAS candidates must wonder if it is feasible to pass the UPSC Prelims in just 60 days. The answer is definitive: it has been done before, and you can too! You need to stick to a plan and work diligently. Preparing for the IAS Preliminary exams in two months may seem daunting, but with the right approach, you can achieve your goals. Keep reading to uncover the key to IAS Prelims preparation in two months.

Understand the IAS Exam Pattern

First and foremost, you must understand the IAS exam format. The UPSC Prelims and Mains consist of three phases, with the Personality Test/Board Interview being the final step. To be eligible for the IAS Mains, you must pass the Prelims. The Prelims comprises two papers: General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper-II, also known as the CSAT.

Review Previous Year Question Papers

It is essential to review prior year UPSC question papers so that, despite time constraints, you have a good idea of the types of questions offered by the UPSC. The UPSC does not repeat questions year after year, so this will help you prioritize your study.

Test Yourself

Always test yourself using mock tests. This is especially critical for the preliminary exams. This process can benefit you in several ways:

Determining how much time you can devote to a subject Developing the skill of making intelligent guesses Improving your speed in answering the papers Understanding your strengths and weaknesses

For the IAS Preliminary exams, focus more on Modern History and Art. For History Prelims, consider the following references:

NCERTs History of Modern India by Bipan Chandra Bipan Chandras India's Struggle for} Independence Books on Art and Culture

Geography Preparation

This subject includes both Indian and world geography. Indian geography is given significant weight in the UPSC Prelims. Here you should focus on the following:

In World Geography, study the Earth, the Universe, land forms and their formation, the wind system, the atmosphere, clouds, precipitation, the hydrosphere, and the world's climate types and climatic zones. Refer to the following books: Certificate: Physical and Human Geography by G.C. Leong Wizard Geography

Prepare a Mindset

This is the first thing you need to do. Prepare a mindset that says, “I can do it.” The power of positivity can change the world. Keep a distance from people who discourage you, and keep reminding yourself that you can succeed. You can watch motivational videos on YouTube or talk to your mentors.

Prepare a Time Table

A good start wins half the match. Nothing could be better than starting with preparing a timetable. It is a must because wandering on the random road you can't reach anywhere. You should make a daily time table wherein you mention each and every activity from dusk to dawn. Plan what you are going to do from waking up in the morning till you go to bed. This keeps things sorted and you will be able to utilize your time fully.

Time Management

If you really want to crack the IAS Prelims in two months, you should manage your time exceptionally well. How to manage time is a big question. The answer is simple! First, make a list of all the work you have to do, like time for studies, lunch, dinner, breakfast, exercise, and sleeping hours. Now assign appropriate time to each activity.

Take Weekly Tests

Only studying is not enough; unless you test it, regular assessment is necessary to check if what you are learning is being retained. Past examination papers and mock tests are very helpful for this purpose. This process also builds up confidence in you that you can achieve IAS Prelims Preparation in two months.

Set Your Target

Make a daily or weekly target of solving questions and be firm to achieve those targets. Any leniency or ignorance could result in failure. Try to cover between 100-200 questions weekly, enriching your knowledge. Make the best use of those precious two months and ensure your success.

Participate in Discussions

Rather than simply reading articles on any topic, discussions offer a better option to remember things and have better clarity. After collecting information and discussing it, it can be both interesting and fruitful for your IAS Prelims Preparation in two months.