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Insights and Strategies from UPSC CSE 2023 Topper Rohit Tyagi (AIR 74)

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Rohit Tyagi, an AIR 74 in the UPSC CSE 2023, shares his comprehensive approach to acing the civil services examination. From effective preparation strategies for the Prelims and Mains exams to insightful tips on mastering the interview, this talk offers a wealth of valuable guidance for aspiring civil servants.

Table of Contents

Preparation Timeline

Rohit Tyagi started his full-time preparation for the Prelims from February 1st. He diligently wrote sectional tests to understand his strengths and weaknesses in different subjects. By taking regular tests, he was able to gauge his preparation progress and identify areas that needed improvement.

Key Strategies for Mains Exam

  • Note-making and Answer Writing

              Rohit highlighted the importance of efficient note-making and effective answer writing techniques for mains exams. He stressed the value of structuring answers, keeping them simple, and prioritizing questions based on their weightage.

  • Essay Composition and Ethics

             He provided insights into essay preparation and the approach to tackling ethics-related questions. Rohit emphasized the need for in-depth understanding and critical analysis while addressing ethical dilemmas in the exam.

  • Time Management and Revision

               Emphasizing the importance of time management, Rohit discussed the significance of revising regularly and managing time effectively during the mains exam. He highlighted the need for cultivating good study habits and maintaining motivation throughout the preparation process.

Newspaper Reading and CSAT

Reading newspapers, such as 'The Hindu' and 'The Indian Express', can significantly aid in CSAT preparation. It provides valuable insights into current affairs, environmental issues, and legislative matters, which are crucial for the CSAT exam. Additionally, newspapers are a great source for enhancing knowledge in areas like environment, ecology, and regional policies, which are integral for the CSAT exam.

Advice for CSAT

For CSAT preparation, it is essential to focus on comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical ability. Rohit Tyagi emphasized the importance of being original and not blindly following the toppers' strategies. He advised aspirants to avoid blind following and focus on developing their own unique approach. 

UPSC Scores and Analysis

Rohit Tyagi achieved impressive scores in the UPSC exams, with 80.81 in the Prelims, 84 in the CSAT, and remarkable scores in the Mains exam. He highlighted the significance of maintaining originality and not blindly following toppers' strategies. Rohit emphasized the importance of being honest, productive, and efficient in the preparation process.

Choosing an Optional Subject and Geography Preparation

Rohit Tyagi chose Geography as his optional subject and shared his comprehensive preparation strategy for it. He recommended referring to standard books, studying previous year papers, and focusing on authentic resources for thorough preparation. Additionally, he stressed the importance of consistent revision and brainstorming while preparing for the optional subject.

Prelims Preparation Strategy

Rohit Tyagi emphasizes the importance of practicing mock tests and revising consistently. He advises aspirants to focus on subject-specific information and use technology for efficient revision. He also recommends maintaining a relaxed approach and normalizing challenging areas to build confidence. Additionally, he suggests using screen captures of maps and related information for better understanding of location-based questions.

Ideal Time to Start Prelims Preparation 

Rohit Tyagi suggests starting Prelims preparation in early February, alongside Mains preparation, to ensure ample time for revision and subject-specific practice. He also advocates for consistent newspaper reading and regular revision to stay updated with current affairs and build a strong foundation for the exam.

Mock Tests and Analysis

Rohit Tyagi advises aspirants to practice a minimum of 35-40 mock tests and attend open mocks. He underscores the importance of analyzing mock test performances, focusing on efficiency, and utilizing positive feedback to enhance preparation. Additionally, he recommends using technology for efficient revision and leveraging screen captures for better understanding of location-based questions.

Ideal Number of Questions to Attempt in Prelims

Rohit Tyagi suggests that attempting around 92 questions is an ideal number for the Prelims exam. He emphasizes the importance of analyzing the areas where marks are being lost and strategically attempting questions based on subject-specific performance.

Dealing with Tricky Questions

Rohit advises candidates to approach tricky questions with a clear and rational mindset. He encourages aspirants to avoid blind attempts and focus on maintaining accuracy and consistency in their approach. Additionally, he suggests prioritizing questions based on their individual strengths and weaknesses to optimize performance.

Mains Answer Writing Strategies 

Approach for Answer Writing

Rohit emphasized the importance of structuring answers, keeping them simple, and prioritizing questions based on their weightage. He highlighted the need for efficient note-making and effective answer writing techniques for mains exams.

Keeping Things Simple 

He stressed the value of presenting the content in a clear and concise manner, ensuring that the answers are easy to understand and effectively communicate the intended message.

Approach for Ethics and Case Studies

Rohit provided insights into essay preparation and the approach to tackling ethics-related questions. He emphasized the need for in-depth understanding and critical analysis while addressing ethical dilemmas in the exam.

For case studies, he highlighted the significance of utilizing real-life examples and ethical principles to provide well-rounded and thoughtful responses.

Essay Preparation

Rohit Tyagi emphasized the significance of essay preparation for the UPSC exam. He highlighted the need for in-depth understanding, critical analysis, and originality in crafting impactful essays. Aspirants should focus on developing a unique approach and drawing inspiration from top-performing candidates' essays to enhance their own writing skills. Additionally, referring to previous year toppers' essays and seeking creative inspiration from renowned individuals can greatly enrich the quality of the essays.

Time Management and Importance of Revision 

Time management is crucial for effective exam preparation. Rohit Tyagi stressed the need for consistency and efficient revision to reinforce learning and enhance retention. Aspirants should dedicate specific time slots for regular revision and utilize effective study techniques to manage time efficiently. Maintaining a balanced approach towards revision and study sessions is essential to optimize productivity and ensure comprehensive exam readiness.

Maintaining Motivation 

Staying motivated throughout the preparation process is key to achieving success in the UPSC exam. Rohit Tyagi suggested cultivating good study habits, maintaining a positive mindset, and seeking inspiration from trustworthy sources. Aspirants should focus on building a strong support system and drawing encouragement from their peers, mentors, and family to sustain motivation and drive towards their goal.

Cultivating Good Habits

Developing good habits is essential for individual growth. Rohit emphasizes the significance of engaging in activities that enhance personal development over time. He shares his experience of pursuing hobbies and the positive impact it had on his life. Cultivating good habits is about being grateful for everything in your life and making the most of every opportunity.

Interview Preparation

Preparing for the interview involves developing emotional intelligence and displaying basic qualities such as integrity. Rohit emphasizes the importance of addressing emotional reactions and maintaining composure during the interview. It's about being emotionally and mentally prepared for the challenges and opportunities that come your way. 

Message for Future Aspirants

Rohit's message for future aspirants is to be grateful for everything in life. He encourages individuals to focus on developing atomic habits and making the most of every opportunity. He emphasizes the need to cultivate good habits, maintain emotional intelligence, and stay optimistic in facing life's challenges. It's about finding value in every small thing and being prepared for the journey ahead. 

Utilizing Newspapers and Magazines for Preparation

When it comes to newspaper reading, it's essential to focus on current topics and stay updated with general awareness. The content derived from newspapers and magazines helps in building a strong foundation for the exam. Using newspapers as a source for current affairs and general knowledge is crucial for aspirants preparing for competitive exams. It provides insights into various aspects of society, governance, and international affairs, which are integral for comprehensive preparation. Additionally, referring to magazines specific to optional subjects like geography can provide in-depth and specialized content, enriching the preparation process.

Miscellaneous Questions

How to Make Spectrum Notes?

Creating notes from standard books like Spectrum involves extracting key points and organizing them in a concise and systematic manner. It's essential to focus on significant historical events, dates, and their impact, ensuring that the notes are comprehensive and cover the entire spectrum of the subject.

How to Tackle GS along with Optional? 

Integrating the preparation for general studies with the optional subject requires a balanced approach. Aspirants should allocate dedicated time slots for each subject, emphasizing consistent revision and efficient time management to cover both areas effectively.

Which NCERT Books to Read?

Referring to the appropriate NCERT books aligned with the UPSC syllabus is crucial. Aspirants should focus on the relevant class-wise NCERT books to build a strong foundation and gain a comprehensive understanding of various subjects.