Being the most popular exam in the nation, there is no doubt that this examination has so many rumours attached to it.
The common UPSC myths are:
More Hours = More Marks
· It is the most common myth that to get selected in the Civil Services Examination, one must study for 15-20 hours.
· However, those who cracked the exam and experts suggest 6-10 hours per day depending on how effective your study is.
· Though the timing depends on the individual, the quality of hours one puts in matters a lot for this examination.
· More important is how long you can put the efforts consistently, rather than putting an extraordinary effort into a single day and not studying for the next few days.
Know everything:
- Another myth is that an aspirant must know everything under the sun to clear this examination.
- Though the syllabus is vast, it is a defined one. The aspirant is expected to have a basic knowledge of subjects like Polity, History, Geography, Economy, etc, and to apply this knowledge whenever needed.
- Even though current affairs cannot be defined, a systematic approach like the following newspaper regularly and daily news analysis from a quality resource will help in solving this.
More books = More Marks
- The Civil Service Examination does not expect you to have a Ph.D. in every subject. Rather keep the books limited.
- Get thorough knowledge of the basics, NCERTs, and get conceptual clarity on the subjects.
For more details on books, refer to the Best books for CSE.
Poor academic record -> Can’t clear UPSC
- UPSC CSE takes into consideration the marks obtained only in this exam and your previous academic performance does not matter till mains.
- Though it may play a role in the interview, so many candidates cracked the examination who had backlogs in colleges and were even college dropouts who took some other degree later.
Poor English = Can’t clear UPSC
- Also, the exam doesn’t demand superior English.
- Just basic English knowledge and clarity to communicate are needed.
- Further, UPSC also allows candidates to write in their regional language in the Mains examination.
Intelligence:
- Through the Civil Services Examination, UPSC is trying to recruit the best minds of India who are interested and capable of contributing to society.
- It requires a positive mindset, consistent dedication to giving your efforts. These can be developed by anyone who has the will to do it.
Memorize everything:
- There is also a myth that aspirant needs to memorize each and everything.
- To achieve that many aspirants follow various sources and try to mug up everything. This is not going to help them in the examination.
- Understanding the concepts and having a clear idea of the basics is the key.
- Even the answer writing skills can be improved by having enough practice.
- Try maximum revision before the exam and take mock tests to yield the best results.
Many attempts to clear:
- Believe that you will clear in this attempt and you will. The number of times a candidate attempts the exam is not relational to the chances of getting cleared.
- Do smart work.
- Maintain your physical and mental health over time.
