UPSC IAS Preparation Strategy by Chandarprabha Sharma, AIR-289, UPSC CSE-2023

Chandarprabha Sharma, who achieved an impressive rank of 289 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2023, generously shares her study strategy for General Studies. Emphasizing that her approach was tailored to her strengths and experiences, she invites others to adapt it to fit their own needs.

Chandarprabha begins by acknowledging her scores across different GS papers, candidly sharing her mixed feelings about them, and setting the stage for a discussion centered on how to strategically approach these exams. Her main focus is on how candidates preparing for the Prelims in 2024 should hone in on their studies, particularly given the challenges faced in the 2023 exams. She stresses the importance of not getting distracted by the buzz around exam results or becoming discouraged by past performance.

For those reviewing their past scores and feeling uncertain, Chandarprabha advises letting go of any residual disappointment to focus effectively on the upcoming Prelims. Her personal mantra is to accept what has happened, learn from it, but not let it cloud current preparations. She promises that clearing the Prelims equips candidates with a substantial part of the knowledge needed for Mains, urging them to trust in their preparedness without succumbing to anxiety.

Her advice for those aiming for the 2025 exams is to integrate their Prelims and Mains preparation from the start. She recommends building a solid foundation through a deep understanding of the UPSC syllabus and previous year questions (PYQs). This foundation should guide their study, allowing them to focus intensely on one topic at a time, test their knowledge through mock exams, and continually seek feedback to refine their understanding and technique.

Chandarprabha also touches on the significance of answer writing practice, particularly for GS4 (Ethics), which she finds both challenging and enjoyable. By engaging deeply with the material and seeing the practical applications of ethical theories, candidates can enrich their understanding and enjoyment of the subject. She suggests using PYQs to anchor the study sessions, ensuring that every reading of the material is purposeful and exam-oriented.

To manage the vast amount of information required for the General Studies exams, Chandarprabha shares a personal technique: she visualizes the application of data and concepts across various topics to aid retention and recall. This method not only helps in structuring the answers during the exam but also ensures a comprehensive coverage of the syllabus through interconnected learning.

In sum, Chandarprabha’s strategy is about more than just studying hard; it's about studying smart, maintaining a positive outlook, and adapting one's approach based on both past experiences and future goals. Her advice is a blend of practical tips and motivational guidance, aimed at empowering future candidates to face the UPSC challenges with confidence and preparedness.