How to start UPSC IAS preparation from zero level

How to start UPSC IAS 2024 preparation from zero level- The IAS Exam, conducted annually by the UPSC is one of the most highly competitive exams in India. Every year, many lakhs of candidates appear for the IAS exam with the sole aim of gaining the highly coveted position of an IAS officer. The CSE exam is famously tough, and candidates put forth their best efforts to prepare effectively for the exam. As of now, with the IAS Exam 2024 fast approaching, many candidates have only one question in mind- how to start preparation for the IAS exam from zero level?

The sheer enormity of the IAS Syllabus combined with the prospects of facing such stiff competition may cause those applying to become stressed. The first step for success in the IAS 2024 is not immediately diving into studying, but the preparation of an effective strategy.

In the matter below, we discuss how to start civil service preparation from zero level. Amongst other things, we’ll be going over some steps you can take to study effectively and strategize efficiently. By the end of this page, you may get some clarity on how to start IAS preparation from zero level.

How to start UPSC preparation from zero level- Developing a Sound Strategy

The “Zero Level” is not at the starting line, but the preparation that comes before. It is extremely counterproductive to dive headfirst into studying without a plan in place. Given the intensity of the competition and the difficulty of the exam, hard work without a proper direction becomes meaningless. Therefore, the ideal first step is the preparation of a sound plan.

This is especially important for candidates wondering how to start IAS preparation from zero level without coaching. This is because candidates preparing for the IAS without coaching may find it slightly harder to stay on track because of a lack of structure. To curb this, and get a better idea of how to start IAS preparation from zero level at home, let us explore the concept of effective strategizing in the following tips.

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How to start UPSC IAS preparation from zero level - Acquaint yourself with the IAS Syllabus

It is important for all candidates to go through the UPSC IAS 2024 syllabus before drafting any kind of plan. It is advised to go through the list of subjects and the topics covered there and make note of which topics or subjects must be prioritized. The syllabus is published by the UPSC yearly along with the IAS notification and is available to download in the form of a PDF. Looking into the IAS syllabus also gives candidates an idea of the exam pattern as well.

How to start UPSC IAS preparation from zero level without coaching - Draft a study plan

Now that we have a good idea of the types of topics the natural next step is the preparation of your IAS study plan. You can now work on creating a schedule and distributing the topics across the preparation period keeping in mind which topics to prioritize. This is an extremely crucial step that will serve to give your efforts a direction. However, please note that it is all too easy to fall into the trap of only drafting more and more elaborate plans without actually executing them. It is good to spend time drafting a plan that you know you can implement realistically.

How to start preparation for UPSC IAS from zero level - Take inspiration from toppers

Every year, the UPSC releases a list of IAS Toppers, candidates who have successfully cleared the UPSC exam. These successful candidates often give interviews, some of them on the subject of “how I start my IAS preparation from zero level”.

Aside from being incredibly motivating, some of the interviews that IAS toppers give might inspire your own study plans, and give you a new perspective that you may not have previously considered. Of course, it is necessary to exercise discretion while taking inspiration from toppers, as there is no perfect study plan that applies to everyone. Take only the advice you know will help you reach your goal.

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How to start IAS preparation from zero level- Preparation

Now that the study plan is in place, it is time to set it into motion. At the beginning of the preparation stage, it is a good idea for candidates to focus on studying the material for the UPSC exam and preparing notes of the same. Going forward, practice writing and formulating your answers as well. Be sure to consistently revise your notes as well. Let's look at some ways to execute our strategies for the best output.

how I start my UPSC preparation from zero level - Studying the Right Books

There is a wide wealth of study material available to students studying for the UPSC IAS exam. How do we find the best material? Firstly, it is widely considered a good practice to study the NCERT books, which cover all the basics. The NCERT Books also have the added benefit of being freely available for candidates to download online.

Aside from the NCERT books, there are many curations of the Best Books for IAS Preparation published online. Candidates can also go through these books to study in depth the topics covered by the IAS exam. Don’t neglect reading newspapers as well. Make notes of all the above material as you study. This has the added advantage of helping you with last-minute IAS preparation.

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• IAS Exam Analysis 2024
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How to start UPSC preparation from zero level - Practising Answer Writing

While reading the IAS study material is important, it is also important to give shape to that learning through actually practising writing the answers. It is a good idea for candidates to solve past IAS question papers, or find Mock IAS question papers available online.

This gives you an idea of how you will express your knowledge when actually tasked to materialize it in the exams. Solving these IAS questions will give you a good idea of your progress when it comes to preparation. Attempting Past UPSC IAS Papers in a timed manner also has the benefit of helping you manage time effectively in the actual UPSC CSE 2024.

In conclusion, time is your most valuable resource when it comes to the question of how to start UPSC IAS preparation from zero level. Remember that a good strategy is the most important tool in your arsenal and prepare well. Use the pointers given above to effectively implement your UPSC IAS preparation.