UPSC Civil Services exam is considered to be the mother of all exams in India. Every year a million aspirants apply for this prestigious exam whereas less than 0.1% of them make it to the final list.

It is seen that many aspirants who have excelled in their academic life, have been toppers throughout, no matter how much talented they are fail in this exam or taste success after a very prolonged and stressful journey. One of the most important reasons for this is that there is no consistency in their preparation for this exam…

What does it mean to be consistent?

• Being regular and persistent in whatever one is doing is the basic definition of being consistent.
• In case of civil services preparation, this would entail the following attributes:
  • Following a proper plan and schedule.
  • Making notes from the standard books and newspapers
  • Practising answer writing
  • Solving test papers or giving test seriesat regular intervals.
  • Devoting adequate time to each phase of the exam as well as to the GS papersand optional papers.
  • Writing essaysat regular intervals say weekly.

What are the consequences of being consistent?

• Giving 6 to 8 hours daily for preparation for one year is better than giving 12 to 14 hours for few days and then changing the plan.
• It instills traits like discipline, confidence.
• It helps in completing the syllabuson time and aspirant can get enough time for revision.
• It helps in devoting time for self-improvementand extra-curricular activities.
• An aspirant who is consistent with the above mentioned tasks will not come under undue pressure in real exam conditions and he/she will be able to better time management.

HOWEVER, truth is that it is easier said than done. More often than not, aspirants start procrastinating and begin to be inconsistent and irregular with their preparation. This is a consequence of various factors like self-doubt, lack of self-confidence and lack of motivation. This leads to tasks being piled up resulting into mental breakdown.

How to develop consistency?

• Having self-beliefin one’s capabilities is very important.
• Aspirant should try to make the preparation joyful and interesting. Otherwise, they will soon lose interest and start postponing things.
• Having a well prepared plan. This should be created considering various factors. Every aspirant has a different learning style. Rather than aping plans of toppers it is beneficial to prepare own plan.
• Initially aspirants can begin by taking small steps, setting smaller targets be it in terms of the syllabus to be covered or the number of sittings or the time to be devoted.
• Once they develop confidence they can gradually increase the limits.
• Following proper sources and having proper guidance.
• Fixing self-accountabilityis very important.

The best solution lies in self-introspection and then taking corrective measures rather than blaming and complaining on factors that are outside one’s control. Being consistent will not only help the aspirants ace the civil service exam but also help them lead a life of contentment and happiness!!!

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