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How to start UPSC IAS preparation from zero level
Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Feb 20, 2024 09:56 AM IST | #UPSC CSE
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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.
Quick Links:
- IAS Application Form 2024
- IAS Eligibility Criteria 2024
- IAS Exam Dates 2024
- IAS Exam Pattern 2024
- IAS Syllabus 2024
- IAS Question Papers 2024
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.
Quick Links
- IAS Selection Process 2024
- IAS Preparation Tips 2024
- IAS Career Guidance 2024
- IAS Study Plan 2024
- IAS Preparation without Coaching 2024
- IAS Salary 2024
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.
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 EBookhow 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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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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How to start UPSC IAS preparation from zero level after 12th?
Many IAS applicants start their IAS preparation immediately after 12th. This usually gives them a couple of years to prepare before the first possible attempt. To make the best use of these years, create an effective IAS preparation plan and stick to it.
2. How a beginner should start preparing for UPSC?
A beginner should prepare for the IAS by becoming familiar with nuances of the IAS exam such as the topics covered and the exam pattern. Make sure your IAS study strategy devotes ample time to solving past papers to get a good idea of the types of questions being asked.
3. How to prepare for UPSC with zero knowledge?
The best way to prepare for the IAS exam with no prior knowledge is to acquaint yourself with the topics covered by the exam and familiarize yourself with the types of questions asked using past IAS papers.
4. How much time is required to prepare for UPSC from zero level?
The ideal preparation time for IAS 2024 varies from person to person, and it is a good idea to decide the best time for you based on your understanding of the IAS exam subjects. Many people take at least one year to prepare for the IAS exam.
5. How can I start preparing for the IAS exam?
The best way to start preparing for the IAS exam is to create a proper IAS study plan based on the syllabus.
6. Is 1 year enough for IAS preparation?
1 year can be enough time to prepare for the IAS exam if you apply the right UPSC study strategy.
7. How to start UPSC preparation from zero level without coaching?
You can start IAS preparation by drafting a study plan based on the UPSC syllabus. It is important to be motivated to stick to this plan, as people preparing without coaching may struggle due to a lack of structure.
8. How to start UPSC preparation from zero level with a job?
If you are preparing for the UPSC exam while also working, your study plan will have to be made keeping in mind a heavy time constraint. In such a situation, try to make time for studying before and after work, and effectively use your time on the weekends.
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5 min ⋆ Mar 10, 2025 05:03 AM ISTQuestions related to UPSC CSE
Have a question related to UPSC CSE ?
Hello!
IRAS (Indian Railway Accounts Service) officers can be posted in both cities and rural areas since Indian Railways has offices and operations nationwide. They typically work in divisional offices, zonal offices, workshops, and production units. Transfers do happen but are usually not very frequent and depend on government policies and organizational needs.
Hope this helps!
Kishan Bhakat 24 April,2025
To become an IAS officer, you must clear the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), and then undergo training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA). While any bachelor's degree is acceptable, choosing a degree that aligns with the UPSC syllabus, particularly in humanities and social sciences, can be advantageous.
UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE):
This is the primary exam for becoming an IAS officer, involving three stages: Preliminary, Main, and Personality Test (Interview).
Any Bachelor's Degree:
A graduate degree from a recognized university is the basic requirement to be eligible for the CSE.
Beneficial Degrees:
Degrees in humanities and social sciences, such as Bachelor of Arts (BA), can be helpful due to the syllabus overlap with subjects like History, Political Science, Sociology, and Economics.
Optional Subject:
You can choose an optional subject in the Mains exam, and a BA degree can provide a wide range of options.
Hope it helps!!
sadafreen356 22 April,2025
Hello!!
That's a great goal—and your background as a research scholar can actually be a big asset in preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Exam (CSE), which is the path to becoming an IAS officer.
Step-by-Step Guide to Become an IAS Officer:
1. Understand the Exam Structure
The UPSC CSE has three stages:
Prelims: Objective (GS Paper + CSAT)
Mains: Descriptive (9 papers)
Interview: Personality Test
2. Check Eligibility
Age: 21 to 32 (for General category)
Degree: Any graduate degree (you already qualify)
3. Choose Your Optional Subject
Choose something you’re comfortable with (can be from your research field if it's available).
Popular optionals: Sociology, Geography, PSIR, Anthropology, etc.
4. Build a Study Plan
Since you're a research scholar, time management is key.
Daily 4–6 hours of focused study can work if you're consistent.
Focus on:
NCERTs (6th–12th)
Standard books (like Laxmikanth for Polity, Spectrum for History)
Current Affairs (The Hindu, Indian Express, or PIB + Monthly compilations)
5. Join a Test Series (Optional but Helpful)
For Prelims and Mains: to build speed, writing skills, and clarity.
6. Practice Answer Writing
Mains is all about articulation. Practice with previous year questions and mock tests.
7. Appear for the Exam
Notification comes out around February.
Prelims is in May/June, Mains in September, and Interview early next year.
How to Align This With Your Research Schedule:
Create a realistic time-table that includes 2–3 hours on weekdays, and more on weekends.
Use your research experience for deeper understanding and essay writing.
NITYAM MAHUR 12 April,2025
If your goal is to become an IAS officer, choose a degree that supports UPSC preparation and also provides a good backup:
BA in Political Science, History, Geography, or Economics is ideal for IAS.
BSc or BCom is fine too, but you'll need to study humanities separately for UPSC.
For backup, pick a subject with good job prospects like BBA or Computer Science.
KCET is required only if you're planning professional courses like Engineering or Agriculture. It's not needed for BA or general degrees.
Rubina Naseer 04 April,2025
Hello aspirant,
For becoming IAS , you have to first complete your graduation from any background from any recognised university or college. If you are in your final year, then also you are eligible. After that you have to give an entrance exam name UPSC . If you will clear this exam then according to your marks you may get the IAS position.
To know about UPSC entrance exam, kindly go through the given link:
https://competition.careers360.com/exams/upsc-cse
All the best!!
Sakshi Sharma 31 March,2025
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