KKN Gurugram Desk | The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam is one of the most challenging competitive exams in India. Every year, thousands of aspirants dream of becoming an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, but only a few succeed. Cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) requires a well-structured study plan, discipline, and the right guidance.

Renowned educator Vikas Divyakirti has shared 10 essential tips to help aspirants effectively prepare for the UPSC exam. Following these strategies can significantly improve your chances of success in the Prelims, Mains, and Interview. If you are an IAS aspirant, this article will provide you with a detailed roadmap for your preparation.

1. Practice Answer Writing Regularly

One of the key aspects of the UPSC Mains Exam is answer writing. According to Vikas Divyakirti, aspirants must develop a habit of writing structured answers. This practice improves speed, content quality, and clarity.

To score well in UPSC Mains, follow these steps:

• Start with previous years’ question papers.
• Use a structured approach—Introduction, Body, and Conclusion.
• Incorporate data, examples, and case studies in your answers.
• Stick to the word limit and improve writing speed.

Regular answer writing helps candidates develop analytical skills and present information concisely.

2. Follow a Timetable and Maintain Consistency

A well-structured study schedule is essential for success in UPSC preparation. Aspirants should dedicate at least 8-10 hours daily to their studies.

• Beginners can start with 6-7 hours per day and gradually increase study hours.
• Allocate time for Prelims, Mains, and optional subject preparation separately.
• Set daily, weekly, and monthly goals for effective syllabus completion.

Consistency is the key to building momentum and staying on track during the long preparation journey.

3. Start with NCERT Books for Strong Fundamentals

The NCERT books provide a solid foundation for UPSC preparation. Before moving to advanced books, aspirants must complete the NCERT textbooks from Classes 6 to 12.

Important NCERT books for UPSC:

• History: NCERT Class 6-12 History books
• Geography: NCERT Class 6-12 Geography books
• Polity: NCERT Class 11-12 Political Science books
• Economy: NCERT Class 9-12 Economics books
• Science & Technology: NCERT Class 6-10 Science books

Once NCERTs are covered, aspirants should move on to standard reference books like Laxmikanth (Polity), Ramesh Singh (Economy), and Spectrum (Modern History).

4. Balance Reading and Answer Writing Practice

Many aspirants focus only on reading books but ignore answer writing practice. To succeed in UPSC, both reading and writing should go hand in hand.

• Reading enhances knowledge, but writing refines expression.
• Attempt daily answer writing practice from UPSC previous years’ papers.
• Participate in test series for self-assessment.

Maintaining a balance between reading and writing is crucial for scoring high in the Mains exam.

5. Use Facts, Data, and Examples in Answers

Adding relevant facts and statistics makes answers more impactful. A well-structured answer with factual information is more likely to fetch better marks.

• Use economic survey reports, government data, and NITI Aayog reports in your answers.
• Quote relevant Supreme Court judgments and constitutional provisions.
• Use maps, diagrams, and flowcharts for better presentation.

A fact-based approach ensures that your answers are more credible, structured, and informative.

6. Follow the 8-8-8 Rule for a Balanced Lifestyle

UPSC preparation is a long journey, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle is essential. The 8-8-8 formula can help in managing time effectively:

✔ 8 hours of study
✔ 8 hours of sleep
✔ 8 hours for relaxation, physical activities, and personal work

This approach prevents burnout, ensures better retention, and keeps aspirants mentally fresh.

7. Strengthen Current Affairs Knowledge

Current Affairs play a significant role in both Prelims and Mains. To stay updated, aspirants should:

• Read The Hindu or The Indian Express newspaper daily.
• Follow government publications like Yojana, Kurukshetra, Economic Survey, and PIB reports.
• Prepare current affairs notes and revise them regularly.

Having a strong grip on current affairs will help in writing well-informed answers in the Mains exam.

8. Attempt Mock Tests and Solve Previous Year Papers

Mock tests and past year question papers provide real exam exposure. This practice helps in:

✔ Understanding exam pattern and difficulty level
✔ Time management during Prelims and Mains
✔ Identifying weak areas and improving them

Regular mock tests boost confidence and accuracy, making aspirants exam-ready.

9. Select the Right Study Material

Many aspirants make the mistake of referring to too many books, leading to confusion. Instead, follow a minimalistic approach by using limited but relevant study materials.

Best books for UPSC preparation:

• Polity: M. Laxmikanth
• History: Spectrum (Modern History), R.S. Sharma (Ancient History)
• Economy: Ramesh Singh
• Geography: G.C. Leong, NCERTs
• Science & Technology: NCERTs and PIB reports

Focus on quality study material rather than collecting multiple resources.

10. Stay Motivated and Maintain a Positive Mindset

UPSC is a long and challenging process, requiring patience and motivation. Many aspirants feel demotivated due to the lengthy syllabus and tough competition.

To stay motivated:

✔ Surround yourself with positive-minded aspirants and mentors.
✔ Watch motivational talks and success stories of UPSC toppers.
✔ Set small achievable goals to stay on track.
✔ Avoid distractions and focus on continuous improvement.

Maintaining a positive mindset and self-belief is crucial for cracking UPSC.

Cracking the UPSC Civil Services Exam requires a smart strategy, discipline, and persistence. By following these expert tips by Vikas Divyakirti, aspirants can improve their preparation and enhance their chances of success.

Key takeaways for UPSC aspirants:

✔ Practice answer writing daily
✔ Follow a structured timetable
✔ Start with NCERTs before moving to advanced books
✔ Balance reading and writing practice
✔ Incorporate facts and data in answers
✔ Follow a balanced lifestyle using the 8-8-8 rule
✔ Stay updated with current affairs
✔ Attempt mock tests and previous year papers
✔ Select limited but high-quality study materials
✔ Stay motivated and never lose confidence

With dedication and the right strategy, clearing UPSC is possible for every aspirant. Stay focused, be consistent, and work smartly to achieve your IAS dream!