Preparing for the UPSC Civil Service Examination (CSE) is a journey that demands dedication, smart work, perseverance, diligence and meticulous planning. And for college students who wish to clear this prestigious exam, the challenges become dire. For instance, a college student must cope with his college studies and UPSC preparation together.
However, with the right strategy and the correct mindset, it is possible for college students to simultaneously prepare for UPSC CSE while managing their college studies.
Why opt for UPSC Preparation while in college?
It is a good decision to dedicate your time to preparing for the UPSC coaching in Delhi along with preparing for your college studies because time is a very precious resource when preparing for CSE and during graduation, an individual has a lot of time for both exam preparations. This greatly increases your chances of passing the exam. Such facilities available within the college setup, such as library, faculty assistance, peer to peer interaction, can also be useful complement to your preparation for UPSC.
Furthermore, a college education provides you with an efficient skill set that comprises critical and analytical thinking, and effective communication skills that can be beneficial for the UPSC CSE. Moreover, studying in college and preparing for UPSC eliminates the pressure of financial security.
8 Effective Tips to Balance College and UPSC Preparation
In this article, we provide 8 effective tips and techniques to help you strike a balance in both your college studies and UPSC preparation.
Efficient Time Management with Assistance
Your most valuable resource is time. Divide daily hours for lectures, studies in college, and UPSC preparation and make an ambitious plan. Organise your tasks well by their time of importance. Use the resources prudently.
Syllabus Overlap
Find overlap between your college syllabus and UPSC syllabus. Consolidate your efforts by focusing on subjects common to both.
Smart Study Techniques
Adopt effective study techniques like active learning, notes summarising, spaced repetition, etc. They will help you to retain more in less time. Make full use of subconscious learning by involving yourself in extra curricular activities like discussions, debates and quizzes.
Utilize College Breaks
Use college break time for UPSC preparation. This is the best time to do the whole lot of readings and revisions. So align your study plans and goals to cover more topics.
Engage with Professors
Connect with other students and professors. Take their assistance in making your college studies compatible with UPSC preparation. Actively engage in activities that can offer valuable insights and suggest appropriate resources. Moreover, also connect with mentors who can help you about the preparation and seeing through all of it.
Online Resources
UPSC preparation through online platforms such as video lectures, forums, etc. These UPSC resources give you the power to learn at your pace. These resources help you learn at your own pace, at whatever time suits you.
Mock Tests and Previous Papers
Attending mock tests and solving previous question papers should be your priority. These are designed to familiarise you with the exam strategy and enhance your problem-solving skills.
Additionally, taking test series that will help you to practice the exam under real examination conditions, thereby gaining confidence as well as polishing your test-taking strategies, which are indispensable for qualifying the UPSC exam.
Stay Updated with Current Affairs
As a UPSC aspirant, make news reading a part of your daily routine. Read newspapers and magazines to be aware of current affairs. This practice not only improves your general knowledge but also helps both college studies and UPSC preparation.
Conclusion
Preparing for UPSC CSE coaching with college studies is reflective of your commitment and resilience. Keep in mind there is no cookie-cutter method, and you will need to adjust your strategy as per your specific situation or need. Learn to keep eyes on the ball, to not melt down from a lack of time and to have a positive mental attitude.
By staying on the course and putting in the hard work, you can succeed in your college education and create a path toward your goal of becoming a civil servant by clearing the UPSC exam.
