Important topics and plans to check before your IAS exams

The syllabus of the UPSC civil services exams is quite vast, and it is something that even bright students find quite difficult. Aspirants put a lot of effort in clearing these exams and some even choose to live away from their homes and enrol for IAS coaching in Delhi and other similar centres.

To prepare for these exams, you need to cover many different subjects and your understanding of each subject also needs to be comprehensive. In addition to this, you must also be aware of the many current events and happening that are of national and international importance.

In this blog, we will look broadly at the topics that have to be covered by UPSC aspirants and we will also discuss the best approaches to prepare for these exams.

IAS Prelims topics

The prelims examination has two papers. The first paper includes subjects like History of India and Indian National movement, India & world geography, Indian Polity and governance, Economic and social development, General Science and Environmental science etc. This paper often includes current events questions also, which may or may not be related to the mentioned subjects; it is, therefore, important that you keep yourself updated with all the important things happening in India and around the world.

The second prelims paper is meant to test the aptitude, mental ability & basic language skills of a candidate. To prepare for this exam, you need to work on attributes like logical reasoning, decision making and problem solving, mental ability, basic numeracy, analytical ability, comprehension and interpersonal skills.

It is important to note, however, that the syllabus may change and you must frequently check the official website to keep a tab on all the necessary information.

IAS Mains topics

The mains are a descriptive answer type exam which comprises 9 papers in total, 2 of which are qualifying exams. The two qualifying papers are an English paper and a compulsory Indian language paper.

The mains exam consists of 4 General studies papers, the subjects of which are similar to the prelims exam topics with some additions. Let us get a sense of the topics covered in the four general studies papers:

1. General Studies 1 – This paper is oriented towards the subjects of history and geography and includes topics like Indian heritage and culture, history and geography of the world and society.

2. General Studies 2 – Focused towards polity, this paper includes questions from topics like governance, polity, constitution, social justice and international relations.

3. General Studies 3 – This paper is more oriented towards science and economics and has topics like economic development, security and disaster management, environment, bio diversity and technology.

4. General Studies 4 – topics covered by this paper include ethics, integrity and aptitude.

Apart from the four general studies papers, there is also an essay paper and two electable/optional papers.

4 step plan to prepare for IAS exams

With such a vast syllabus to cover with such a diverse set of topics, one is required to have a comprehensive plan. Only with the right strategy will you be able to study the entire length and breadth of the curriculum.

By preparing a plan that fits your learning style and aptitude you will allow yourself to have more focus, and you will be able to get better results for the efforts you put in.

1. Gather the right study material

In this blog, we have already discussed the various topics that are covered in the civil services exam. To prepare for all of these subjects in a comprehensive and coherent manner, you must collect the right study material. For each subject, you must look for books that will help you build strong fundamentals, which you can then use to develop a deeper understanding of those subjects.

2. Identify strengths and weaknesses

Once you have gathered the right study material, the next thing is to identify subjects that you are good at and the ones in which you will need help. It is necessary that you make an honest assessment about your strengths and weaknesses, so that you can do all that is required to cross the finish line.

3. Get help

If you are struggling with your preparations, you must find the right coaching centre that can put you on the right path. Many students choose to travel to centres like Delhi to prepare for the civil services exams and enrol in top IAS coaching centres in Delhi.

4. Attempt test series

The importance of mock tests cannot be undermined. Before you appear for the exam, you must attempt as many test series as possible, and make an honest assessment of your preparations. You can also opt for online test series through websites like Youth destination.

Conclusion

The UPSC civil services exams may be one of the toughest exams in the country, but clearing it is certainly not impossible. With the right guidance, a well thought-out plan and a positive attitude, you can chart your way to a promising career in the Indian civil services.