Common mistakes to avoid in IAS exam

Common mistakes to avoid in IAS exam

Edited By Soujanya K | Updated on Feb 20, 2024 10:08 AM IST | #UPSC CSE

Common mistakes to avoid in IAS exam- The UPSC has released a document detailing the common mistakes by Civil Services aspirants. This list of the mistakes of IAS aspirants is downloadable in the form of a PDF on the official website - upsc.gov.in. The IAS exam is widely known as one of the most competitive exams in this country. Every year, lakhs of candidates prepare tirelessly to be one of the few who have successfully cleared the Civil Services Exam. Sadly a few candidates who may have made the cut failed to do so because of some easily avoidable errors.

Additionally, we also discuss the correct way to fill out the IAS mains answer sheet and also some common mistakes to avoid in UPSC preparation for the benefit of IAS aspirants. Candidates are encouraged to go through the following list of IAS 2024 exam mistakes and the correct way to answer the papers in order to avoid rejection due to avoidable mistakes.

IAS 2024 Exam - Important Dates

Events

Dates

UPSC IAS 2024 Notification release

February 14, 2024

Last day of IAS exam Registration

March 05, 2024

IAS 2024 Prelims exam

May 26, 2024

UPSC CSE 2024 Mains exam

September 20, 2024


Some Commonly Made Mistakes of UPSC Aspirants

The UPSC has released a list of common mistakes by aspirants while attempting the Mains paper on their website. The list of UPSC IAS mistakes is as follows.

Common mistakes to avoid in CSE exam: Writing Irrelevant things on the Question cum Answer Booklet

Oftentimes, candidates tend to mark the paper with names, numbers, slogans and other kinds of markings for a variety of reasons. Candidates must only write on the paper as prompted by the instructions and avoid leaving any kind of irrelevant marking on the sheets.

Writing Irrelevant matters on the Answer sheet

UPSC-common-mistakes-Writing-Irrelevant-matters-on-the-Answer-sheet

Common mistakes to avoid in IAS exam: Disclosing identifying information

Candidates must never reveal any information that may disclose their identity on the UPSC IAS mains paper. This includes information like the candidate’s name, roll number and signature. Even in tasks like letter writing, candidates must take care not to reveal their names or signatures while answering.

Writing Identifying Information on the Answer Sheet

UPSC-common-mistakes-identifying-information

Common mistakes to avoid in CSE exam: Answering in multiple languages

Candidates must only answer the IAS main exam in the language that is indicated. Candidates who wish to attempt the IAS exam in their regional language must opt for that option during the application process, and even then, not mix languages in the mains paper.

Common mistakes to avoid in IAS exam: Answering in both pen and pencil

Candidates must either write the answer in pen or in pencil. Candidates are not permitted to use both pen and pencil within the same answer.

Quick Links

UPSC CSE Preparation Strategy and Best Books
UPSC CSE preparation strategy along with best books for prelims as well as mains exam for sure success.
Download EBook

Common mistakes to avoid in CSE exam: Making appeals to the examiner

Some candidates choose to appeal to the examiner with the intention of getting some leniency in correction. This is often done through notes pleading with the examiner to correct leniently and sometimes offering a reason, such as this being the candidate’s last attempt. Candidates should avoid this at all costs as this behaviour is not viewed favourably by examiners at all.

Making appeals to the examiner

UPSC-common-mistakes-appeals-to-the-examiner

Common mistakes to avoid in IAS exam: Illegible writing

Candidates must take great care to present their UPSC IAS answer sheets neatly with good handwriting so that the answers are easily readable. Answers written illegibly always run the risk of being rejected. Even if an answer is right, if the examiner cannot read it, they cannot mark it as correct.

Common mistakes to avoid in the Civil Services exam: Not following instructions

It is, without exception, imperative for candidates to attempt the IAS mains exactly as prompted in the question paper. Candidates must write answers only in the space allotted for the same and must not write or draw anything in areas where it is indicated not to make any marks.

Common mistakes to avoid in IAS exam: Doodling and Sketching on the Paper

Candidates must not, under any circumstances, doodle or make irrelevant sketches on the answer sheet. Making unnecessary doodles and sketches on the answer sheet breaks the rule stating not to write irrelevant things on the answer sheet. It also has the added disadvantage of ruining the presentation of your paper. Candidates must only write what is asked of them to write on the answer sheet.

Making Irrelevant Sketches on the Answer Sheet

UPSC-common-mistakes-irrelevant-sketches

How to Correctly Write on the IAS Mains Answer Sheet

Now that we have gone over some of the mistakes of UPSC aspirants, in this section, we will discuss the correct way to write on the answer paper. Firstly, candidates must only Write the required information on their answer sheet, both in the portion where they must fill out the details and the answers. In case candidates want to mark an answer wrong, they must take care not to scribble, but instead neatly strike it out and write cancelled over it.

Quick Links

Common Mistakes in UPSC Preparation

Until now, we have mostly looked into writing on the answer sheet, but it is also good practice to go over some of the mistakes in IAS preparation. Candidates can go over the following UPSC preparation mistakes and avoid making them.

Common mistakes to avoid in IAS exam: Not going over the syllabus

Candidates should take care to go over the IAS syllabus 2024 thoroughly. The syllabus must influence candidates’ IAS Study plans so that they avoid spending too much time with some subjects while neglecting others, or otherwise studying irrelevant topics. It is always in the candidate's best interest to have a thorough understanding of the IAS Syllabus.

Common mistakes to avoid in CSE exam: Buying and referring to too many books

There is a vast amount of study material available to students these days. Too many books will inevitably lead to confusion and some books may contain conflicting information. To curb this, first, be thorough with the materials in NCERT books.

NCERT books are both valuable in preparation with the added advantage of being freely available online. Next, there are many curations available for the best IAS books available for preparation candidates can refer to.

Quick Links

Common mistakes to avoid in IAS exam: Not Practicing Writing Answers

An extremely easy UPSC preparation mistake to fall into is only reading the material and not spending enough time practising written expression. Not practising writing answers makes it tough for candidates to manage their time in the actual exam, and may cause the quality of the answers to be sub-optimal.

Candidates must take care to practice the topics that they have revised by attempting past UPSC IAS Question papers. Candidates must be mindful of the above mistakes and take care not to repeat them in order to increase their chances of success at the highly competitive UPSC IAS exam.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I avoid mistakes in the UPSC Exam?

You can avoid making mistakes in the UPSC exam by going over the commonly made mistakes of UPSC aspirants and taking care not to repeat them.

2. Does bad handwriting matter in UPSC?

Yes, bad writing that is illegible runs the risk of getting your answer rejected if it is not readable.

3. Is it okay to not clear UPSC in the first attempt?

Candidates are allowed to attempt the IAS exam multiple times, so it is okay if you do not clear it the first time.

4. What mistakes do UPSC aspirants make?

UPSC aspirants make many different kinds of mistakes such as writing illegibly or doodling on the paper. You can go over the official list of common UPSC errors to get a better idea.

5. What not to read for UPSC?

It is important for candidates attempting the UPSC to study what is in the syllabus. Don’t read irrelevant topics not specified in the UPSC Syllabus.

6. Are there only 4 attempts in UPSC?

The maximum number of attempts allowed for the IAS exam varies across categories.

Articles

Certifications By Top Providers

Access to Justice
Via National Law University, New Delhi
BA Journalism and Mass Communication
Via Chandigarh University, Chandigarh
Media Law
Via New York University, New York
Israel State and Society
Via The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Archaeology from Dig to Lab and Beyond
Via University of Reading, Reading
Human Rights Law and Criminal Justice
Via LMS Law College, Imphal
Edx
 198 courses
Swayam
 193 courses
LawSikho
 127 courses
Futurelearn
 89 courses
Coursera
 76 courses
Udemy
 63 courses

Explore Top Universities Across Globe

Questions related to UPSC CSE

Have a question related to UPSC CSE ?

Steps to become an IAS officer


Graduation


You should have a bachelor's degree in any discipline from a known university

Arts: History, Geography, Political Science, Economics, Sociology

Science: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology

Commerce: Economics, Accountancy, Business Studies

Preparation for UPSC Civil Services Examination:


Study the Syllabus: Learn the syllabus for Preliminary and Main exams.

Choose Elective Subjects: Take elective subjects that you enjoy and have expertise in

Study Material: Reference textbooks, handouts distributed during the coaching and internet resources.

Practice: Previous years' question paper, mock tests, etc

Coaching Institutes: Join a good coaching institute for formal guidance 3. UPSC Civil Services Examination:

Prelims Exam: An objective-type qualifying test that will make you eligible to appear in the Main examination.

Main Exam: Very subjective test which includes all subjects.

Interview: Personality test by a panel of experts.

Important Tips:


Start Early: Better preparation starts early.

Time Management: Manage your time very efficiently.

Consistency: Follow a regular study routine.

Stay Updated: Current affairs and news.

Seek Guidance: Who have an experience can be consulted upon for guidance.

Practice Regularly: Solve the previous year's paper and mock tests.

Stay Positive: Believe in yourself and work hard.

Hence, with these steps and dedication and perseverance, you're sure to achieve your end as an IAS officer.

Hello,

Yes, while IAS (Indian Administrative Services) preparation requires a graduation degree, here are steps you can take to start your IAS journey after completing your 11th standard (BiPC):

  1. Focus on Graduation : Choose a stream for your higher studies that aligns with your interest. Graduation is a mandatory qualification for IAS eligibility.
  2. Early Preparation : Start building a strong foundation in subjects like History, Geography, Economics, and Political Science, which are part of the IAS syllabus.
  3. Develop General Knowledge : Read newspapers daily and follow current affairs magazines to stay updated with national and international news.
  4. Improve Language Skills : Enhance your proficiency in English and one Indian language as per the Civil Services syllabus.
  5. Join Study Circles or Coaching : Enroll in pre-IAS foundation courses available for school students for a head start.
  6. Time Management : Create a balanced study schedule alongside your schoolwork to gradually prepare for the IAS exam.
  7. Participate in Competitions : Engage in essay writing and debates to boost your analytical skills and confidence.

To get more help, you can visit : https://www.careers360.com/careers/ias-officer

Hope it helps 1

Hello there,

Becoming both an IAS officer and a doctor is achievable but requires dedication and clear planning, as each career has distinct educational and examination paths. Here’s a roadmap to help you achieve both:

1. Complete Your MBBS to Become a Doctor

  • Enroll in an MBBS Program : First, you need to qualify for NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) and get admission to a medical college.

  • Complete Your Medical Degree : The MBBS program typically takes 5.5 years, including an internship.

  • Gain Experience (Optional) : You may choose to practice medicine for a few years to gain clinical experience, but it’s not mandatory if your goal is to pursue IAS right after MBBS.

    2. Prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE)

  • Understand the UPSC Exam Structure : The UPSC CSE has three stages—Preliminary Exam, Mains Exam, and Interview. You can start preparing while in medical school or after completing MBBS.

  • Choose Your Optional Subject : As a doctor, you may consider taking medical science as your optional subject, though it’s not mandatory.

  • Develop a Study Plan : Balance your medical studies or job with UPSC preparation. Many doctors manage both by allocating dedicated study time each day.

  • Appear for the Exam : With a systematic approach, crack the UPSC exam and qualify for the IAS position.

    3. Career Path as a Doctor-IAS

  • IAS Training and Posting : After clearing UPSC, complete your training and take up your role as an IAS officer. You’ll have a broad scope to influence healthcare, public policy, and social development.

  • Consider Government Health Roles : In administrative roles, you could use your medical background to work in health-related departments, where your knowledge of medicine would be a unique asset.

    Additional Pathways

  • Alternative Approach : You could also join as a doctor in a government hospital and then transition to administration by appearing for the UPSC exam when ready.

  • Health Policy and Administration : Use your medical background in policy formulation or in roles within the Ministry of Health, combining both careers for impactful healthcare reforms.

This dual career path is ambitious but can be very rewarding, allowing you to serve in both the medical and administrative fields.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.


Hello aspirant, The answer to this question is no. Both of these areas require your complete commitment and dedication. You can not manage both of these together. Also it is not allowed to do any other profession while performing duties as a IAS officer. If you want to practice medical profession then you have to leave your job.

Thank you

Hope it helps you.

Hello,

When choosing an IAS coaching institute, it's important to consider factors such as faculty quality, study materials, success rate, infrastructure, fees, and student support. Here are some highly regarded IAS coaching institutes in India:

1. Vajiram & Ravi

  • Location: Delhi
  • Pros: Experienced faculty, comprehensive study materials, high success rate.
  • Cons: Relatively expensive.

2. ALS IAS

  • Location: Delhi, with branches in various cities.
  • Pros: Good faculty, structured programs, and regular tests.
  • Cons: Can be costly, and the quality may vary across branches.

3. Vision IAS

  • Location: Delhi, with branches in other cities.
  • Pros: Detailed study materials, current affairs updates, regular mock tests.
  • Cons: Some students find the pace fast.

4. Sriram IAS

  • Location: Delhi
  • Pros: Strong emphasis on comprehensive understanding, quality teaching.
  • Cons: Limited branches compared to others.

5. Drishti IAS

  • Location: Delhi, with a few branches in other cities.
  • Pros: Affordable fees, good study material, and supportive faculty.
  • Cons: Infrastructure might be less impressive.

6. Upkar Institute

  • Location: Multiple cities.
  • Pros: Focus on affordable coaching, quality materials.
  • Cons: Less known compared to the top-tier institutes.

7. The Hindu Zone

  • Location: Online coaching.
  • Pros: Flexibility of online classes, good faculty, and resources.
  • Cons: Online learning might not suit everyone.

Hope it helps !

View All
Back to top