How to Prepare for UPSC IAS Without Coaching 2024?

How to Prepare for UPSC IAS Without Coaching 2024?

Edited By Soujanya K | Updated on Feb 14, 2024 03:10 PM IST | #UPSC CSE

The UPSC CSE exam is one of the toughest exams because of its vast syllabus and competitive nature. Many candidates take coaching classes to navigate the UPSC IAS Syllabus. Many IAS exam aspirants, choose to prepare through self-study and can benefit from knowing how to crack the UPSC exam without coaching.

Preparing for the UPSC IAS exam without coaching will prove to be difficult at first glance. However, succeeding at the UPSC IAS 2024 Exam without coaching has been done before and can be done again with some smart work and planning. Firstly, candidates must acquaint themselves with the IAS Syllabus 2024 and the UPSC CSE Exam Pattern. This will help candidates prepare a good UPSC Exam Study Plan. The material below discusses how to prepare for the UPSC CSE exam without coaching.

How to prepare for UPSC IAS without coaching?

The aspirants who have planned for this prestigious exam can prepare for UPSC IAS without coaching by the following strategy:

  • They should plan their strategy on how to prepare for UPSC CSE without coaching.

  • They must study the UPSC IAS 2024 syllabus and analyse previous Civil Services question papers to start preparation for IAS without coaching.

  • Trend analysis and cut-off marks for UPSC prelims and mains will help the most to prepare without coaching for the UPSC IAS exam 2024.

  • They should go through the expert guidance of IAS toppers if want to prepare for the UPSC CSE exam without coaching.

  • Refer to the best books of UPSC IAS. Assemble NCERT books of Social Studies, Science and Maths from classes 6-12.

  • Read newspapers like The Hindu, and The Indian Express and make notes.

  • Practice writing long essays on a daily basis, this habit will come in handy for the UPSC mains exam preparation.

  • Choose your optional subject carefully by analysing previous question papers and the pass percentage of candidates and try to excel in it.

  • Practice as many IAS previous question papers as you can to prepare for IAS without coaching.

  • Read and watch interviews of UPSC IAS-qualified candidates and learn about their preparation strategy.

  • This will also help prepare for the interview round of IAS.

  • Make notes on all relevant topics that cover the background, features, facts, important figures, covering introduction, analysis, etc.

  • Cover all dimensions of the topic you are studying.

  • Focus on Current Affairs.

  • Read editorials.

  • Gain in-depth knowledge of all the subjects, sections and topics from the syllabus

  • Make short notes and keep it with yourself all the time for revisions, replace it with new short notes constantly.

  • Prepare a robust IAS preparation study plan.

The main exam of UPSC IAS 2024 consists of 9 descriptive papers including one optional subject (2 papers). After clearing the mains candidates will be called for the interview round. After clearing the UPSC Civil Services interview round, candidates will undergo selection for the Indian Administrative Services (IAS).

Free IAS Preparation Guide with Trend Analysis, Cut off, Preparation Tips & Strategy:

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.
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Best Books for the IAS Preliminary Exam 2024

The list of recommended books for UPSC IAS preparation is given in the table below for the benefit of students wondering how to become IAS without studying with a coaching centre.

Subjects

Best books of UPSC for Prelims Exam

Economics

Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh

Economic Development & Policies in India – Jain & Ohri

NCERT 11

International Relations

NCERT 10+2 (Contemporary World Politics)

Current Affairs

Geography

NCERT 6-10 (Old Syllabus)

NCERT 11-12I (New Syllabus)

World Atlas

History

Facets of Indian Culture – Spectrum

NCERT 11 (Ancient & Medieval)

NCERT 10+2 (Modern Indian History)

India’s Struggle for Independence – Bipan Chandra

Indian Polity

Indian Polity – M Laxmikanth

NCERT 9-12

How to prepare for UPSC IAS without coaching with help of the best books for IAS mains exam?

IAS aspirants must select the best books for mains to prepare for UPSC without coaching, these are

Subject

UPSC Books for Mains exam

History, Indian Heritage & Culture

[General Studies Paper 1]

India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra

India after Independence by Bipan Chandra

An Introduction to Indian Art Part 1: Textbook in Fine Arts for Class XI

Ancient India by R.S Sharma

History of Medieval India by Satish Chandra

Geography

[General Studies Paper 1]

Geography of India by Majid Husain

Certificate Physical and Human Geography – G C Leong

Fundamentals of Physical Geography NCERT Class 11

World Geography by Majid Husain

World Atlas

Polity & International Relations

[General Studies Paper 2]

Introduction to the Constitution of India by DD Basu

India’s Foreign Policy by Rajiv Sikri

Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth


Economy

[General Studies Paper 3]

Indian Economy – Ramesh Singh

Ethics

[General Studies Paper 4]

Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude for Civil Services Main Examination by Subba Rao and P.N. Roy Chaudary

UPSC CSE Selection Process 2024

The IAS selection process consists of three stages - Preliminary Exam, Mains Exam and the Personality Test/Interview round. Appearing and qualifying in each stage is mandatory for candidates. It is not impossible to prepare for UPSC IAS without coaching but it needs guidance from UPSC toppers' which are available free on many career portals. The preliminary exam is objective type and the question paper is bilingual (English & Hindi).

The UPSC CSE preliminary exam consists of two papers - GS Paper 1 and GS Paper 2. GS paper 1 comprises or comprises History, Economy, General Science, Geography, Environment and ecology, and current affairs. The GS paper 2 consists of an aptitude paper that has logical reasoning, comprehension skills and quantitative aptitude.

After qualifying for the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary exam candidates will be called for the DAF (Detailed Application Form) after which they will have to appear for the mains. The main exam is where the real game begins. Candidates who clear the UPSC CSE 2024 mains exam will be called to participate in the interview process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I prepare for UPSC IAS without coaching?

Yes, you can prepare for UPSC CSE without coaching but you will have to invest more hours.

2. Is coaching necessary to clear for UPSC IAS?

No, it is not necessary but coaching classes provide expert advice which can be very helpful.

3. Is 1 year sufficient for UPSC IAS preparation?

Yes, but you will require systematic planning and strict strategy for the same.

4. How many hours are sufficient to study for UPSC IAS?

6-7 hours of regular study focused on the syllabus and exam pattern of UPSC CSE is sufficient but you must invest more and more time to study.

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Questions related to UPSC CSE

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For becoming an IAS officer you have to give UPSC exam , and focus on excelling in academics, particularly in subjects like History, Geography, Political Science and English. Maintain a strong foundation in these areas and stay updated on current events and national/international issues. After 10th standard, choose the Humanities or Social Sciences stream, then graduate from a recognized university. Prepare for the UPSC and for studies you have to focus on excelling in academics, particularly in subjects like History, Geography, Political Science and English. Maintain a strong foundation in these areas and stay updated on current events and national/international issues. After 10th standard, choose the relevant subject and complete your higher education and graduation then prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Examination, which includes preliminary, main and personality tests. Join coaching classes, develop skills like communication, leadership and problem-solving and stay motivated. And also research more about that exam.


Have a great day

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.

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