IAS Study Plan 2024 - Important Strategies, Revision Schedule and Evaluation Tips

IAS Study Plan 2024 - Important Strategies, Revision Schedule and Evaluation Tips

Edited By Soujanya K | Updated on Feb 14, 2024 03:51 PM IST | #UPSC CSE

UPSC conducts, among many other exams, the IAS Exam 2024. This exam is considered to be one of India's toughest competitive exams. Many lakhs of students prepare for the UPSC exam yearly. This renders the IAS exam highly competitive. Therefore, to increase the chances of success in such a competitive environment, it is crucial for candidates to draft an effective UPSC 2024 Study Plan.

Candidates should draft their self-study plan for 2024 at the very beginning of the preparation process. Creating a subject-wise timetable for the IAS exam can also prove to be advantageous to candidates. Below, candidates can find an IAS 2024 study plan PDF that covers the whole UPSC exam, from the beginning of exam preparation to the IAS interview 2024. Candidates are encouraged to go through the material to find ways to create an IAS Study plan and better prepare for the CSE Exam 2024.

IAS Study Plan 2024 - How to Start Preparation?

To start the preparation for the IAS exam 2024, aspirants must go through the detailed IAS Study Plan 2024 based on the exam pattern and the UPSC Syllabus. The IAS syllabus pdf consists of the stage-wise subject and topics that candidates need to study. The UPSC exam pattern consists of the stages, number of papers, time duration and the marks allotted to each stage, like IAS prelims, mains, and interview 2024. It is always advised for fresh candidates to start the IAS exam preparations 2024 at least 1-year in advance to cover the vast UPSC syllabus and study materials for prelims and mains exams but there is no fixed time duration.

Quick Link - IAS Exam Analysis for 2024

UPSC Study Plan for 1 Year

Given the vastness of the UPSC syllabus, candidates must properly formulate a Self Study Plan the for IAS exam. If not, they run the risk of preparing inefficiently, not spending the appropriate amount of time on important topics etc. To prevent this, it is advised for candidates to draft a UPSC Study Plan for 1 Year at the very beginning of preparation. Divide the year into sections.

In one section of your IAS Study Plan, in the first few months prioritize covering the basics and taking notes. As time progresses, dedicate more time to solving past papers and sample papers. Reserve the last couple of months revisingsion. Drafting a CSE study plan in this manner helps candidates prepare thoroughly for the UPSC IAS exam without rushing or skipping topics.

UPSC 2024 Self Study or Join IAS Coaching Classes?

Candidates should prefer the UPSC 2024 self-study plan or Join IAS Coaching Classes for CSE exam preparation 2024. This is one of the questions that come in front of candidates preparing for the IAS exam 2024. The most effective answer is that it depends and varies from candidate to candidate. Some candidates who are fresher need some help from coaching classFor thosehose who have already appeared one or two times and know all about UPSC exam preparation tips and strategies, no need for them to join any coaching for the prelims exam. Both the ways of the IAS study plan 2024 work well, as there are a lot of candidates who have qualified for the UPSC exam recently with and without coaching classes. So, at last, it all depends upon your expertise, your intellectual prowess and how much time you can devote to IAS study 2024 to crack it.

Check How to prepare for UPSC IAS without coaching?

Analyse UPSC Prelims Solved Paper-1 2016 to 2020 with Ans. & Explanation

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UPSC Study Plan 2024 - Best and Brief IAS Study Materials

Nowadays, there are a lot of study materials for UPSC exam 2024 preparation available in the market, and candidates can access them both offline as well as online. Some of the important IAS study materials as per the UPSC Study Plan 2024 for prelims and mains exam preparation are below-

  • Previyear'syear CSE question papers

  • Best books for CSE

  • Daily newspapers and Monthly magazines

  • Annual reports (Government schemes, Budget and Case Studies)

  • Constitution of India (Not compulsory but an important one to keep alongside all the books).

  • IAS Study Plan 2024 for Prelims Exam

IAS Study Plan 2024 for Prelims Exam

Start from the basics and that is by reading all the NCERT books from class 6 to 2 (History, Geography, Civics/Political Science, Arts and Culture and Economics). After completing the first phase of reading, repeat the sain and this time dive into the details while also making important notes.

After completing the second phase of the UPSC Study plan, pick up the supplementary books - Indian Polity, Spectrum History etc. and thoroughly read them. Simultaneously don't read newspapers especially the editorial sections for essay purposes for current events as well as for news related to international relations. Solve the previous year's Prelims exam question papers, once the exam is near. Solve at least 10-15 years of papers and also appear for test series.

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UPSC Study Plan 2024 for Mains Exam

Once you return from UPSC prelims after taking it you should start your UPSC 2024 study plan to execute. Because it is time for UPSC mains preparation ion 2024. The UPSC mains exam preparation is the most important and hard part as it has the maximum marks to get selected finally in the IAS recruitment exam.

UPSC IAS mains exams have a total of 9 papers and all of them are in the descriptive mode long answers, including the essays paper. So you should start practising writing mock IAS mains and essay questions after appearing in the prelims exam of UPSC 2024. By studying for the UPSC prelims 2024 exam you have also covered the IAS mains 2024 30-40 percent of UPSC syllabus.

Now it's time to complete the rest of the 60 per cent of mains syllabus along with preparing for the optional subject. Practice writing answers for UPSC mock tests 2024 by keeping a timer to keep track of the time and also use pointers, and bullet points and write the answers in an info graphical way.

Quick Links: IAS Result 2024

IAS Study Plan 2024 for Interview

The last stage of the UAS exam is the interview stage which is again an important stage as many candidates are not able to cross the UPSC personality test due to poor marks. For the UPSC 2024 interview preparation, it is always suggested to keep your eyes and ears open to current events local, national, and international.

You should start practising speaking fluently in English or another language in which you have to appear for the IAS exam 2024. Sit in front of the mirror and get involved in a one-to-one conversation, and work on your posture, attitude and personality. Prepare some answers that are generally asked in the UPSC interview.

The meaning of your name, family tree, city, town, village, state, famous things about these places, famous celebrities who have the same surname as you, why you opted for Civil Services, why you chose IAS/IPS/IFoS etc in the DAF, questions based on real-life situations etc. Always remember one thing the maximum questions will be based on the DAF (Detailed Application Form), so fill it out carefully.

Also read:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the UPSC CSE very tough or is it just a saying?

Every year 10 lac candidates apply for the exam and only 800-900 cross the finishing line. So, more than the saying, it is hard work that the exam requires.

2. Which is better coaching or self-study?

It all depends upon your ability, you can clear it by self-study and you can fall short of clearing it even with the help of coaching. So, it is up to you.

3. Is there any negative marking in the IAS exam?

Yes, there is negative marking in the prelims exam.

4. What is the cut off of IAS exam?

You can check it here - IAS cut off 2024.

5. How many stages are there in the IAS exam?

There are three stages in the exam - Preliminary, Mains and Interview.

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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 !

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