Is It Necessary To Be A Good Scholar To Become IAS?

One of the most common myths while preparing for the Civil Services Examination is that only a good scholar or topper can clear the UPSC IAS Exam. Although being a topper helps to a certain extent, it does not guarantee success in any exam. What is required in civil services examination is general awareness and good writing skills. If one is able to develop both of these qualities, clearing this exam would be easier even having a comparatively average academic record.

• But, being a topper and being a good scholar are two different things. Being a good scholar is a cause whereas, being topper is the effect of it. A good scholar can't have an extraordinary academic records due to various genuine reasons.
• Some of the traits that a good scholar possesses could be Genuine Passion, Confidence, Composure, Analytical Skills, Foresightedness, etc.
• A student without genuine dedication will eventually lose his sense of purpose and notice his energy levels flagging in the process of the preparation. The passion for the job and public service keeps the aspirants motivated throughout the preparation and examination period. Being dedicated to learning new things and consistent improvement in learning process is an art that can be embraced by IAS Aspirants through following a strict timetable while studying. IAS toppers always understand the importance of consistency in study routine.
• It is important that the aspirants put on a confident front in UPSC examination hall and even before. The under confident students will always be having a duality in their mind during the preparation period which could prove an obstacle to the success.
• UPSC Aspirants must remain calm and composed even under adverse circumstances or having caught in difficult situations. Even In the examination, even if a challenging question appears, one must pause to reflect on it before conveying thoughts in a composed manner while answering the question. This applies to all the stages of preparation as well.
• Analytical skills encompass qualities such as the ability to identify and solve problems. As the questions asked in both prelims and mains are mainly subjective in nature, having great analytical skills is a kind of boon to the aspirants.
• Coupled with analytical skills, good foresight will ensure that work plans can be implemented with minimal disruptions. The preparation period of civil services examination is such a long and hectic, foresightedness is a must. Foresight is, after all, a hallmark of a good leader, and a quality that civil servant should possess.
• Thus, yes, it is necessary to be a good scholar for becoming an IAS officer although having a great academic record is not a prerequisite for the same. Being a topper is everyone’s dream, but IAS Aspirants should remember that "big dream takes great efforts". There is no alternative to hard work in any entrance examination including the civil services.