A BTech in electronics and communication from Delhi Technological University, Laghima Tiwari cracked UPSC CSE 2022 with All India Rank 19 in her first attempt.
Speaking with Indian Masterminds, Laghima shared that the results were a bolt from the blue, she never imagined that she would be selected in her first attempt and that too among the Top 20. “It’s a happy news, my parents also got emotional. More than that, I am now relieved that I don’t have to give the upcoming prelims examination,” Laghima said.
FIRM AND STEADY
Consistency helped her crack the exam. According to her, even if an aspirant studies for a less number of hours but with a consistent effort on a daily basis, it will give them success, instead of studying for 10-12 hours a day and not studying the other day at all. “It can get boring but it will give you some result.”
Laghima completed her graduation in 2021 and soon started preparing for the UPSC CSE. During her one-year preparation, she studied all the basic books and jotted down her strategies from topper’s talk she watched on YouTube.
“I took one year for preparation, wherein I covered all the static portions, basic GS and current affairs and today I am here,” she shared.
OPTIONAL
Having a biology background from classes 9th to 12th, Laghima opted for Anthropology as her optional subject. “This helped me a lot to get good marks as it was convenient,” she added. Without any classroom coaching and with the help of test series and self-study, Laghima cleared the exam in one go.
WHAT’S IN A NAME
For the interview round or personality test she focused on two areas – Detailed Application Form (DAF) preparation and current affairs. She also took some mock interviews to get in hand experience.
“I have a unique name, so the panelists asked me the meaning of my name and there were questions related to Swachch Bharat Abhiyaan, Project Tiger and much more,” the topper shared with Indian Masterminds.
TIPS FOR ASPIRANTS
Laghima urges aspirants to focus on the upcoming prelims examination and revise repeated what they have already covered. “Learn from the mistakes you have done in your mock along with this analyse,” she said. After prelims, she asks them not to waste time even if they feel they are on the margin they should start preparing for the mains as it will benefit them. “Utilize those two-three months effectively,” she added.
According to Laghima, she is still to learn many things but hopes to do justice to what has come her way. “I will constantly learn and perform my duty,” she said signing off.
