Why Certain Candidates Should Not Take the Civil Service Examination Seriously

The Indian Civil Service Examination is one of the most challenging and prestigious examinations in India. However, not everyone is cut out for this gruelling process. This article highlights the characteristics of candidates who should not take the examination seriously, unless they are willing to make changes in their approach and mindset.

Introduction to Bhaiya and His Approach

Meet Bhaiya, a 26-year-old individual with a master's degree who is jobless. Despite this, Bhaiya self-identifies as an IAS aspirant. He has applied for every government job, ranging from state-level PCS, SSC, Bank Group B, to C, among others. Bhaiya is an active participant in various Telegram channels and groups, often running his own as an administrator. His laptop is loaded with 50 GB of UPSC material, comprising PDFs, lectures, and everything else under the sun. However, he lacks the determination to complete any courses or read standard textbooks like NCERTs. Despite access to all these resources, Bhaiya turns to more experienced individuals for guidance, but often finds fault with their suggestions. His outlook on life is negative, and he often blames his circumstances and fate for his lack of success.

Implications for Bhaiya and Others Like Him

Bhaiya's situation raises important questions about whether certain individuals should take the Civil Services Examination seriously. Unless they are willing to change their approach to study and their negative outlook on life, the outcome is unlikely to be positive. This examination, like any other, requires a serious mindset and a genuine commitment to the preparation process.

The Case for a Level Playing Field

Recently, a young fellow on Quora shared his concerns about the Civil Services Examination syllabus. He is a commerce graduate now pursuing law and aspires to become a civil servant. His main arguments are:

Why should a candidate study subjects like history, geography, and polity?

Should UPSC conduct separate examinations for specialized services?

Only engineering students can study these subjects, not commerce background students.

While his concerns are valid, my simple argument is that the Civil Service Examination is designed to be a level playing field for candidates from various educational backgrounds. The examination tests candidates' ability to grasp subjects and analyze complex situations. It is a rigorous process, and candidates should be prepared to go through it. A civil servant is expected to work in different and difficult situations, so they need to be well-versed in a range of subjects, including history, geography, and polity.

Your Preparation and Mindset

If you have doubts about your own abilities right from the start, and you are not comfortable with the syllabus, it would be best to reconsider your path. The examination process is grueling, and if you waste your time on an unfeasible goal, it will be difficult for you to qualify. Instead, focus on developing your skills and seeking opportunities that better align with your strengths and aspirations.

Summary:

The Civil Services Examination requires a serious mindset and a willingness to adapt. Candidates like Bhaiya, who lack genuine motivation and a positive outlook, should reconsider their approach. Similarly, candidates who doubt their abilities or find the syllabus prohibitive should focus on alternative paths. The examination is designed to be a level playing field, but it is only effective when candidates commit to the process wholeheartedly.