Is It Possible to Prepare for IAS Prelims in Three Months?

Cleaving the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) Preliminary Examination within a short span of three months can be challenging, yet not impossible. The key lies in a strategic study plan, consistent practice, and thorough coverage of key topics. This article will guide you through a detailed plan to achieve your goals in just 90 days.

Quick Answer: Yes, It Can Be Done

Based on my personal experience, cracking the UPSC Prelims with intensive preparation within a span of 60 days is achievable. However, there are conditions. You must have already completed one reading of all basic NCERT and reference books.

How to Start

The journey begins with a solid plan for the next 60 days. Here's a comprehensive strategy to help you prepare effectively.

5 Sections in Prelims

The UPSC Prelims exam consists of 5 sections: Polity, History, Art and Culture, Environment, and Schemes and Bodies. Allocate 12 days each for a thorough revision of these sections.

Static Subject and Current Affairs

For each section, your plan should include three components:

Static subject: Focus on key topics from the basic books. Current issues: Analyze the most important current issues related to each static subject. Monthly current affairs: Stay updated with the latest news.

Example: Economics - National Income and Development

Let's take the Economics section as an example. You plan to cover the topic of National Income in one day. Focus on the current affairs related to National Income from the past year. Topics such as economic growth, inflation, and GDP are likely to be asked. Break down the last 12 months of current affairs magazines into 12 slots of 4 days each. Spend 3 days reading and then take a monthly current affairs test, which you can find on the OPTIMA platform.

Stay Consistent and Eliminate Doubts

Reject any doubt that you will not be able to crack the exam in this time frame. If you are willing to work hard and follow the plan, you can succeed. Regular practice is crucial. Once you finish a subject, take at least 3-4 sectional mocks in that subject. Also, take full-length mocks to get a feel for the exam.

Option Elimination Technique

Option elimination is a key strategy in the UPSC Prelims exam. It can help you identify the correct answer by excluding incorrect options. Here's an example:

With reference to consumers' rights/privileges under the provisions of law in India, which of the following statements is/are correct?

2. Authorities are empowered to take samples for food testing. 3. When a consumer files a complaint in any consumer forum, no fee is required to be paid. 4. In case of death of a consumer, his/her legal heir can file a complaint in the consumer forum on his/her behalf.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

[A] 1 Only [B] 2 3 Only [C] 1 3 Only [D] 1 2 3

At first glance, it may seem complex, but you can simplify it by eliminating the statement with an extreme term, 'no fee'. Thus, the correct answer is [C].

Additional Resources and Support

If you are looking for additional support, I am conducting an option elimination seminar on April 9th, which is a 3-hour webinar. Register on my Telegram channel: asksantoshsir.

Critical Topics in the Final Months

In the last two months, focus on important and expected topics. You can't read everything, but prioritize the critical sections.

Best of Luck!

With the right plan, determination, and a bit of hard work, you can achieve your goal. I wish you the best of luck in your UPSC Prelims preparations.