One should have a realistic UPSC study plan to effectively tackle the extensive syllabus of the exam. Without a proper study plan, you might lose your consistency and lead to frequent burst outs and even quit the exam process.
We present you a step by step approach to prepare a study plan of your own for UPSC exam:
1. Getting familiarized with the UPSC Syllabus
Exam is conducted in 3 stages:
– Prelims: It consists of General Studies (GS) and CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test).
– Mains: It consists of nine papers like Essay paper, GS (I-IV) , Optional Subject, and Language papers.
– Interview: Personality test after you clear Mains exam.
La Excellence provides Micro listing of the UPSC syllabus in detail. You can check it once.
You need to ensure that you have proper knowledge of the syllabus for each phase and every section to prevent confusion later.
2. Scientific evaluation of your Strengths & Weaknesses:
-List out topics you already know and which require additional time and attention.
– Need to prioritize your subjects, and devote more time to week subjects or those that have high weightage in the exam.
3 . Establish Clear Objectives & Deadlines: Write them on a paper
– Long-term Objectives: Divide your preparation into small stages:
– Stage 1: Completion of Basics (6-8 months).
– Stage 2: Advanced study and revision (4-5 months).
-Stage 3: Focused revision and mock tests (2-3 months prior to exam).
For Stage 2 and 3, you can access La Ex’s ‘Rapid Revison Material’ and ‘Mains Reckoner’ Material. They were created by subject experts and curated under the guidance of best faculty in India.
– Short-term Goals: set up weekly and daily goals.
– For instance, establish goals such as covering a specific number of chapters, practice questions, or writing essays within a week. You can refer La excellence’s Shiksha Programme’s schedule for that. Syllabus is meticulously crafted and it can build a base for your study plan.
4. Develop a Balanced Study Timetable:
Put all the subjects in your daily routine, but don’t overload yourself.
– Morning: High-concentration subjects such as GS (Polity, History, Geography).
– Afternoon: Light subjects or revision (current affairs, optional subjects).
– Evening: Practice (mock tests, writing practice).
Get a mentor support to ensure the continuity of your study plans. Mentor can help you overcome your lag and put in a right direction.
– Weekly Plan: Assign particular days for particular topics or subjects. You can go through the sample study plan provided at the end of this article.6
-Breaks: Take 10-15 minute breaks every 90 minutes to refresh yourself. Walking can be your best buddy.
5. Incorporate Current Affairs:
– Develop current affairs as a daily routine. Read newspapers (such as The Hindu or The Indian Express) and note down important points.
– Utilize monthly magazines for compilation of current affairs.
– Allocate time for weekly revision of current affairs (can be done on Sundays).
6. Practice Answer Writing
– Practice of answer writing regularly (especially for GS and Mains) is essential.
– Spend a minimum of 1 hour each day on answer writing practice.
– Attempt to maintain a proper format in answers (introduction, body, conclusion).
– Regularly self-correct and evaluate your answers.
7. Time for Optional Subject
– Make sure to dedicate a sufficient amount of time for your optional subject. It’s a big part of the Mains exam.
– Focus on understanding concepts rather than rote learning.
– For optional subjects, revise the syllabus thoroughly and try practicing previous year papers.
8. Regular Revision
– Regular revision is key to retaining information.
– Plan for weekly or bi-weekly revisions. Revise notes and previous months’ current affairs.
– Prioritize revising difficult areas and topics you’ve spent less time on.
9. Mock Tests & Self-Assessment
– Start taking mock tests for Prelims and Mains once you’ve covered enough syllabus.
– Analyze your mistakes and work on weak areas.
– Include minimum 2-3 mock tests every week (particularly when the exams are near).
10. Health & Well-being
– Lead a healthy lifestyle. Get time for exercise, eat nutritious food, and make sure you get proper sleep.
– Keeping yourself mentally and physically fit during the preparation period is very essential.
11. Be Flexible
– Life is unpredictable, so be adaptable with your plan. If you skip a day or a goal, don’t lose heart. Adjust accordingly and move ahead. Perfectionism doesn’t have a place in UPSC preparation.
Sample Weekly Study Plan:
Monday – Friday:
-(6:00 am – 9:00 am): Read newspaper, Current Affairs, and note down.
– 9:00 am – 1:00 pm: Subject Study (e.g., History, Geography, Polity)
– 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Lunch/Break
– 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Study of Subject (e.g., Economics, Environment, Science)
– 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm:Optional Subject/Mock Test (alternate days)
– 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm: – Take a small break and Practice Writing Answers
8:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Break, Dinner
– 9:00 pm – 10:00 pm: Revision of Notes/Mistake Review
Saturday:-
Study Optional Subject or revision of specific topic.
Review performance in mock test.
Sunday:-
Give a test from Quality test series like that of La Excellence’s Shiksha.
Go through paper discussion or model answers in the afternoon session. Revision and checking key are must.
– Rest in the evening. Develop a healthy hobby.
Additional Tips:
– Consistency is key: Follow your routine, even when motivation varies.
– Use quality study materials and steer clear of unnecessary distractions.
– Stay motivated by participating in study groups or discussing with fellow aspirants.
– Take breaks but don’t procrastinate.
– Keep a positive mindset and have faith in your capabilities.
One of our cricketing greats Rahul Dravid said these words to M.S. Dhoni in his initial days, “Learn to say NO. You will reach to the top.” MSD followed this and the rest is history. You also need to learn where to say NO.
By following this kind of realistic and adaptable study plan, you’ll be able to navigate the rigorous UPSC preparation with confidence and efficiency.
La Excellence IAS Academy, the best IAS coaching in Hyderabad, known for delivering quality content and conceptual clarity for UPSC 2025 preparation.
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