The UPSC exam is one of the most competitive exams in India, with lakhs of aspirants vying for a few thousand seats. The question that arises in the minds of many aspirants is whether it is possible to prepare for this exam without joining a coaching institute.
This blog post will explore how to prepare for UPSC without coaching and increase your chances of cracking it on the first attempt. We have provided genuine tips and recommendations here. We may recommend some books from Amazon without extra cost to you.
The Civil Services Exam is a competitive exam that requires thorough preparation. Many aspirants fail. Hence, it is essential to know the right way to prepare. You should know What It Really Takes to Crack the World’s Toughest Exam.
How to Start Preparation for UPSC Without Coaching
- Start early: The earlier you prepare for the UPSC exams, the better. Early starting gives you more time to cover all the topics and material thoroughly.
- Self-study: You can self-study for the UPSC exams using online resources and studying material.
- Make a study plan: A study plan will help you make the most of your time and ensure that you cover all the topics.
- Join a discussion forum: Joining a discussion forum can help you interact with other aspirants and get insights into the examination process.
- Time management: Time management is crucial for success in the UPSC exams. Make sure to allow adequate time for each subject and topic.
- Self-discipline and Consistency: Topping the UPSC exams without coaching requires immense self-discipline and consistency in your studies. You will need to follow a very strict study schedule and make sure that you are sticking to it day in and day out.
- Revising smartly: You must revise whatever you study multiple times. The revision will help embed the concepts in your mind and help you retain the information for longer.
- Taking mock tests: A very important part of the preparation for any competitive exam is taking mock tests. Solving mock tests will not only help you get an idea about the exam pattern and types of questions asked, but will also help build your confidence on the day of the exam.
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Understand the Process of the UPSC Exam
Before preparing for the UPSC, you must be clear about why you are doing it. If you are unsure, it will be hard to make the right decisions. However, it would be best to understand that failing UPSC does not mean you are weak. It simply means that you do not know how to prepare for UPSC without coaching.
Check If You Are Eligible for UPSC Examination
The Union Public Service Commission conducts the UPSC Civil Service Examination to recruit officers in the Indian Administrative Service, Indian Police Service, and other All-India Services. The examination is open to all Indian citizens who are graduates of a recognized university.
The minimum age for appearing in the UPSC Examination is 21, and the maximum is 32 years. There is no upper age limit for candidates belonging to Scheduled Castes or Scheduled Tribes. Candidates must have completed their graduation before appearing for the UPSC Examination.
The Exam Pattern of the UPSC Civil Services Exam
If you have taken the exam seriously, you must know the UPSC exam pattern. The UPSC examination is conducted in three stages – the Preliminary Examination (Paper I and II), the Mains Examination (Paper A, B, C, D, E, and F), and the Personality Test.
The Preliminary Examination is a screening test to select candidates for the Mains Examination. It consists of two objective-type papers – General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II. Candidates must secure a minimum of 33% marks in each paper to qualify for the Mains Examination.
The Mains Examination is a written examination consisting of nine descriptive papers. Four compulsory General Studies papers (papers A, B, C, and D) and two optional papers should be chosen by you from a list of 22 subjects (papers E and F). Moreover, one paper on Essay (Paper G) and two qualifying language papers (Hindi or English) are included in the exam pattern. Candidates must secure a minimum of 33% marks in each paper to qualify for the Personality Test. The total marks for all the papers are 2,000.
The Personality Test is an interview conducted by a panel of experts appointed by the Commission. The total marks for this test are 300. The Commission assesses the personal suitability of candidates for various posts based on their performance in this test.
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How To Prepare For UPSC Without Coaching
This blog post is completely dedicated to the aspirants to answer their question “how to prepare for UPSC without coaching”. You get the roadmap to crack the UPSC IAS exam after following the tips that we have discussed here.
UPSC Prelims Exam Preparation Tips
f you are looking to prepare for the UPSC examination without coaching, this article is for you. Here, we will share some tips and tricks that will help you crack the UPSC IAS examination on the first chance.
- Firstly, you must clearly understand the syllabus and pattern of the UPSC examination. Once you know what is expected of you, half of your battle is already won. Make sure to thoroughly review the syllabus and familiarize yourself with all the topics covered in the examination.
- Secondly, it is equally critical to devise a proper study plan and stick to it religiously. Many aspirants make the mistake of starting their preparation at the eleventh hour and then wonder why they couldn’t clear the examination. Remember, UPSC preparation requires dedication and hard work; there are no shortcuts to success. Start preparing early and give yourself enough time to cover all aspects of the syllabus.
- Thirdly, solve as many mock tests and previous years’ question papers as possible. Mock tests will not only help you get an idea about the pattern of questions that are asked in the examination but also train your mind to think on its feet and come up with solutions quickly.
- Lastly, don’t underestimate yourself. Believe in your ability to crack this exam. Have faith in your preparation and give it your best shot. We are sure that if you follow these tips.
UPSC Mains Exam Preparation Tips
The UPSC examination is one of the most competitive exams in India, with nearly 10 lakh aspirants vying for fewer than 2,000 seats. While clearing the exam without coaching is possible, self-study can be challenging. Here are a few tips on how to prepare for the UPSC examination without coaching:
- Firstly, ensure you understand the UPSC examination’s syllabus and pattern.
- Start by building a strong foundation in general studies (GS) and English. These are important for all stages of the UPSC examination – from the Prelims to the Mains and Interview.
- Once you understand GS and English well, begin preparing for optional subjects. Choose optional subjects wisely – choose subjects you are interested in and have some background knowledge of. This process will make learning easier and increase your chances of scoring well in that subject.
- While preparing for UPSC, always keep in mind the current affairs component. GS Paper II of the Prelims is entirely based on current affairs, so ensure you are up-to-date with current events worldwide.
- Practice mock tests and previous years’ question papers to get an idea of the UPSC examination pattern and the kind of questions asked.
- Finally, don’t forget to take care of your health and well-being while preparing for the UPSC examination. It is a long and grueling process, so make sure you are physically and mentally fit to face the challenge.
UPSC Free Preparation Guidance
#1 Sort Through the UPSC syllabus
You can find the UPSC complete syllabus on the official website of the Union Public Service Commission.
The syllabus is divided into two parts – Preliminary and Main.
The Preliminary examination consists of two objective-type papers – General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II. The duration of each paper is 2 hours.
UPSC Syllabus for Paper-I
- Indian and World Geography – Physical, social, and economic geography of India and the world.
- Current events of national and international importance.
- Indian Politics and Governance – Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
- Economic and social development Sustainable development, poverty, inclusion, demographics, social sector initiatives, and so on.
- General Science.
- History of India and the Indian National Movement.
- General topics on environmental ecology, biodiversity, and climate change – do not require subject specialization.
UPSC GS Paper 2 (CSAT)
- Comprehension.
- Interpersonal skills including communication skills.
- logical reasoning and analytical abilities.
- Decision-making and problem-solving.
- General mental ability.
- Basic numbers (numbers and their relationships, order of magnitude, etc.) (Class 10 level), interpretation of data (charts, graphs, tables, adequacy of data, etc. – Class 10 level).
The Main examination is a written examination comprising nine papers of conventional (essay) type. The first paper is common to all candidates and is of qualifying nature. The duration of this paper is 3 hours. The remaining eight papers are optional, each carrying 300 marks. Of these, candidates must select two subjects for writing the papers.
UPSC Mains Syllabus
- Paper‐I: (Essay) – 250 Marks
- 2. Paper‐2: (General Studies 1) – 250 Marks.
- 3. Paper‐3: (General Studies 2) – 250 Marks
- 4. Paper‐4: (General Studies 3) – 250 Marks
- 5. Paper‐5: (General Studies 4) – 250 Marks
- 6. Paper‐6: (Optional Subject Paper 1) – 250 Marks
- 7. Paper‐7: (Optional Subject Paper 2) – 250 Marks
The UPSC syllabus covers various topics, such as History, Geography, Indian Polity, Economy, General Science, etc. Therefore, candidates must prepare for the examination to cover all the topics effectively.
#2 Free Study Plan for UPSC with Weekly Targets
If you’re wondering how to plan study hours for the UPSC exam, here’s a quick list of what you should do.
First, take note of your schedule. Next, identify your strengths and weaknesses. Finally, make a plan to stick to it.
To improve your odds of passing the exam, you must follow a study plan for at least a year. Doing this will keep you on track and prevent you from fumbling in the dark.
The most important aspect of any UPSC exam is the time and effort you put into it. It’s crucial to get as much information as you can so that you can prepare effectively.
The most obvious way to accomplish this is to read many books. Depending on your schedule, you might be able to dedicate eight or ten hours a day to learning.
A timetable highlighting the most important topics to study is a good idea. Ideally, it would be best if you planned to revise the GS 3 syllabus at least three times.
I recommend reading The Secret Code of UPSC Toppers if you are serious about the exam. This book is a roadmap. It will take you beyond the syllabus and into the mind of a UPSC Topper.
#3 Recommended Books for UPSC CSE Exam
You may start your preparation with the following books.
- NCERT Books
- Indian Polity for Civil Services Examinations -by M. Laxmikanth
- A Brief History of Modern India -by Rajiv Ahir
- Indian Economy -by Ramesh Singh
- General Studies Paper 2 Manual -by MHE
- Indian Art and Culture -by Nitin Singhania
- Certificate Physical and Human Geography -by Goh Cheng Leong
- Oxford School Atlas -by Oxford Publishers
- Economic Survey -by the Ministry of Finance
- India Year Book
If you are in confusion, you may buy Complete Study Material for UPSC Civil Services IAS/ IPS Prelim & Main General Studies, Essay, Ethics & Integrity Exams (set of 22 Books). Along with the best study materials, this book also guides how to prepare for UPSC without coaching.
#4 UPSC Civil Services Test Series
UPSC Civil Services Test Series is a valuable resource for students preparing for the Civil Service Examination. The tests simulate the exam scenario and help candidates learn how to face the test effectively. They also provide a reliable self-assessment tool.
The UPSC Test Series is available in the classroom and online modes. Its questions are based on the latest question pattern and cover the syllabus systematically. This test series is a good tool for students preparing for the Preliminary and Mains exams of the Union Public Service Commission.
The test series also helps aspirants in developing their problem-solving skills. The questions range from factual to conceptual. These mock tests will also give you an insight into the types of questions you can expect in the final exam.
UPSC CSAT Trend Analysis and Expert-led tips and tricks are provided in 15 Mock Test Papers for UPSC CSE Prelims GS Paper-1 for 2023.
#5 UPSC Previous Year Question Papers
To get the best possible preparation, students must devote a specific period to practicing the previous year’s questions.
Previous year question papers will help the students analyze what sections are significant, how to approach certain questions, and whether they have understood the concepts. Students can identify their weaknesses and strengths in the mock test.
Here is a book of 28 Years UPSC Civil Services IAS Prelims Topic-wise Solved Papers 1 & 2 (1995–2022).
#6 UPSC Study Notes
One of the essential resources to prepare for the UPSC exam is the UPSC Notes PDF.
These are curated by experts and cover all the subjects. The notes have been categorized according to the type of questions that are asked in the exam.
Manohar Pandey has prepared 14000+ Chapter wise Questions for Objective General Studies for the UPSC exam. This book will help the aspirants to crack the exam without coaching.
#7 Study Materials for UPSC Prelims and Mains
The UPSC syllabus is enormous. This is why it is important to have the right study materials for both the prelims and the mains. A good mix of books, newspapers, magazines, and other study materials can help you prepare well.
It would help if you started your preparation by referring to the NCERT textbooks. These books cover the entire syllabus. They are easy to understand, and you can get PDF versions for free on the Internet.
You can find a wide variety of materials on our website proexamtips.com. Some study materials are compiled books, while others are practice sets and magazines.
#8 Time Management Tips to Crack UPSC Without Coaching
Time management is a very important factor for students preparing for the UPSC. There is no doubt that this is the toughest exam in the country, and if you want to excel, you will need to keep your schedule in check.
The best way to do this is to create a schedule. This should include your daily objectives, weekly targets, and monthly goals. In addition, you should also have a realistic idea of how long it will take you to achieve these goals.
To get the most out of your time, try to avoid multitasking. A simple way to accomplish this is to break your study sessions into shorter segments.
One of the most important things to do while preparing for the UPSC is to ensure you are well-rested and healthy. Not only will it give you more energy to study, but it will also allow you to stay focused.
#9 Online Video Classes and Mock Tests
Online classes and mock tests can help you prepare for the exam. These courses provide ample practice test sessions that cover the entire syllabus. In addition, they allow you to customise the mock test.
Several free mock tests can be found on the internet. You can also find a number of online courses that cost a nominal fee. Depending on your preference, you can opt for a course that has a flipped classroom model.
Online classes and mock tests can be a great asset during your preparation for the UPSC exam. The course will give you the opportunity to learn from experienced faculty members who are adept at teaching. It will also teach you the skills to acquire confidence before the actual test.
When do You Need Civil Service Exam Online Coaching
There are several advantages to online classes. Firstly, it allows aspirants to study from home. Additionally, it offers convenience and safety. Also, some coaching institutes offer students a comprehensive study plan.
Some candidates are already familiar with the IAS syllabus. Therefore, they may not need a mentor. But they may benefit from having a guide to help them understand the concepts. This can help them write compelling answers.
Many online coaching institutions allow for mock tests and competitions. This can give aspirants a competitive edge. It is important to remember that a strong focus is needed to achieve success in the IAS examination.
UPSC Without Coaching FAQs
Can I Crack UPSC Exam with a Job?
One of the best ways to study for UPSC while working is to keep all your prescribed books handy. Aside from reading, it would help if you practiced writing answers. To do this, you can go through the previous year’s question papers. You can also use a smartphone to view online videos or materials. The Answer Writing Manual for UPSC Civil Services & State PSC Examinations will make your preparation easier.
Are NCERT Books Enough For UPSC Exam Preparation?
NCERT is considered the most important source of knowledge for the UPSC examination. However, it is not enough to get you a good score. Usually, you need two types of books: NCERT books and other standard references. Make sure to study the NCERT book for each subject. This will help you cover the majority of the syllabus. NCERT One For All for UPSC & State PSCs General Science Classes- 6 to 12 may help you in this case.
Can I Clear IAS Exam Without Coaching Classes?
It’s not impossible to crack the IAS exam without coaching classes. But it does require a good study plan. A clear concept of the syllabus and a consistent study schedule will help you to prepare for the exam. To prepare for the exam, you must know the UPSC syllabus and the pattern. Moreover, you should update yourself on current affairs and global affairs. It would help if you also took short notes on your study subjects.
What is good in UPSC classroom coaching?
The faculty at classroom coaching institutions are experienced. They act as mentors to students, helping them develop their skills. In addition, they ensure that their answers reflect all required qualities.
Some coaching programs provide individual mentors to students. A mentor is an expert in the field and brings out the best in each student. While this is helpful, working hard according to the teacher’s instructions is also necessary.
Coaching programs also develop discipline among students. Students learn how to plan their studies, and their assignments are done according to schedule. Students who complete work on time are better equipped to manage time.
Is Coaching Necessary for UPSC Preparation?
Coaching is a very important part of civil service preparation, but it’s not the only thing you need.
The first step in getting prepared for the UPSC is to understand the syllabus. Reading the syllabus, as well as the previous year’s question papers, will help you figure out how the exam will be set up.
When to Start Preparing for UPSC?
If you are looking forward to joining the civil service, you should begin your preparation right now. Starting now will help you build a solid foundation, which will help you get ahead in the competitive world.
Start by acquiring a good understanding of the UPSC syllabus and its content. This will help you prepare more effectively for the exam.
Can I Clear IAS In Months without coaching?
It is possible to clear IAS in 6 months if you are dedicated. However, you need to prepare effectively. This will help you gain experience and confidence.
You need to create a timetable that includes the right subjects, study material, and other important dates. Also, you must improve your mental strength. And, you should practice your writing skills. In addition, you should prepare for the personality test.
Can I Crack UPSC Without Coaching?
The UPSC Civil Services Exam is a challenging examination. Although it is difficult to get through without proper guidance, you can get there with hard work and dedication. You need to have a sound study strategy for UPSC. You need to study from different sources to ensure a strong grasp of the subject.
Can I Clear IAS without coaching?
To clear the IAS exam without coaching, you need to keep your mind focused. You can do this by joining study groups of the IAS aspirants. Watching motivational videos available on YouTube. And, completing the syllabus as early as possible.
Conclusion
So there you have it, our tips on how to prepare for UPSC without coaching. We have almost all the aspects of studying without online or offline coaching. This will surely help you in your career.
The Union Public Service Commission is a government body that administers various exams for different positions. To become a civil servant, you need to score a good rank on the exam. This competitive exam is usually regarded as one of the most difficult in the country.
We hope that these tips have been helpful and that you’ll be able to crack UPSC on the first chance. All the best!