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Dear IAS Preparation:
The essential ingredient of succeeding on an exam is the
knowledge of the contents and structure of the exam and the
process. The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) of India
conducts the IAS exam. The three-step process is: Preliminary
Exam (Prelims), Main Exam (Mains), and Interview.
The Prelims are composed of two tests of two hours each. The
General Studies (GS) test contains 150 objective,
multiple-choice questions. It primarily covers six topics: the
constitution of India, history, geography, economics, science,
and current affairs. The second test is on a subject chosen,
from among the 23 subjects, by the candidate. This objective,
multiple-choice test contains 120 questions. The GS and second
test are worth 150 and 300 points, respectively.
The Prelims are used as a screening mechanism for reaching the
next phase of the Mains. Approximately 200,000 candidates appear
for the Prelims and less than 20,000 qualify for the Mains. The
number of candidates for the Prelims is about 10 times larger
than the number of vacancies available. Obviously, getting an
IAS job in India is extremely competitive and thus highly
regarded.
The Mains consists of 9 tests. The first two are language tests:
first is the English Test and the second is the Language Test in
any one of the languages included in the Eighth Schedule of the
Indian constitution. Each test is worth 300 points. These tests
are at the high school level. The candidates are expected to
only qualify; the score from these tests is not included in the
aggregate. The Language Test is not required for candidates from
the North-East. The third test is an Essay Test, worth 200
points. The candidate can write the essay in English or in any
other language included in the Eighth Schedule of the
constitution. The next two tests, each worth 300 points, are on
General Studies. The syllabus for each test is different. These
tests aim to judge your awareness and well as your understanding
and analysis of contemporary events. The remaining four tests,
each worth 300 points, are on two of the optional subjects
chosen by the candidate. The subject matter is consistent with
the college level education.
The interview, worth 300 points, is the last stage of the
selection process. Nearly twice as many candidates are invited
for Interview as the number of vacancies.
As you can see, the process consists of mandatory and optional
subject matter. For optional subjects, you should choose those
subjects in which you have the most knowledge and greatest
interest. Obviously, you need to master the constitution,
history, geography, economic, science, and current affairs.
Another critical dimension is the thought process, analytical
skills, ability to articulate thoughts coherently and strong
writing skills, both in English and in the language of your
choice. Given a particular emphasis on the general knowledge,
you must become an avid reader of newspapers and magazine that
deal with Indian and international affairs, political, economic
and business issues, and other current events.
Remembering the facts is necessary but not sufficient. You must
develop a good understanding of the facts and their implications
in the larger context of India and the world. You should start
preparing now. Of course there is the subject matter at the
college level for which you do not have knowledge. But there are
plenty of other subjects for which you can start preparing now.
You should buy guide-books on the IAS exams to practice and
prepare. May services are also available that offer interactive
online preparation service. Approximately one year before taking
the test, you can consider taking coaching classes. Your
strategy for success must include: early, continuous, and
serious preparation, starting right now.
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