With just few hours left for the Union Civil Services Commission (UPSC) Civil Services examination (CSE) Prelims, candidates are experiencing a mixed range of emotions. While some are apprehensive, others are raring to go. However, a little nervousness is quite normal at this point, considering this is the first big hurdle to cross in the CSE race. 2020 toppers who successfully crossed all hurdles to finish strong give their tips and hacks to clear the exam with ease. Read on.
ELIMINATE WRONG ANSWERS FIRST: SUBHAM KUMAR
AIR 1 Shubham Kumar advises candidates to remain calm and composed on the examination day. “Reach half an hour before the exam, relax and meditate before writing. Read questions thoroughly and leave nothing for the last moment,” he said.
He also says that candidates should not read any new topic before the exam and stick to whatever they have already prepared. “Do not look up new topics in the last minute as this will hamper your preparation. Revise your topics thoroughly and read them as much as you can. Attempt mock test and go through the previous year question paper as it will help you to understand the criteria,” he added.
The topper also shared his tricks for attempting multiple choice questions (MCQs).“Eliminate the wrong answers first and focus on correct options. Analyze the correct one and then fill your answers. Read questions thoroughly and don’t panic,” he advised.
DON’T MUG UP NEW CONTENT IN LAST MIN: JAGRITI AWASTHI
The woman topper of 2020, Jagriti Awasthi, lays stress on the importance of revision. “Do not mug up new content in the last minute. Revise, revise and revise your topics thoroughly,” she says. She advises the candidates to sleep well before the exam and spend time with their family members or close friends to be mentally fit and stay motivated.
Jagriti also cautions the candidates to fill their OMR sheets carefully in a calm state of mind and focus completely on the question paper. “Do not start evaluating yourself in between the examination, as this will shift your focus to your mistakes. Your prime focus should be on completing your questions. Be confident, do not panic, and just crack it,” she said.
BE UP TO DATE ON CURRENT AFFAIRS: SATYAM GANDHI
AIR 10 Satyam Gandhi says that “the most important thing is to keep an eye on every question and write answer confidently.”
He emphasises the importance of Economics, Political Science, History and Current Affairs for Prelims. According to him, candidates should work on those topics the most.
REMOVE ALL DOUBTS, GO FOR IT: RIA DABI
AIR 15 Ria Dabi has a special advice for candidates who get nervous and have second thoughts about appearing in the exam: “If you believe in yourself, if you have worked hard and prepared well, then you should give the exam. Once you make it, you will be proud of your decision and get a chance to do something for the nation and its citizens.”
