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How to Clear IAS exam in First Attempt


How to Clear IAS exam in First Attempt

How to Clear IAS exam in First Attempt

Discover the truth behind the 'First Attempt Myth' and learn valuable tips for clearing IAS in this must-read blog post!

 

Clearing the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) exam in the first attempt is a dream of every aspiring bureaucrat. However, given the reputation of the exam being one of the toughest in India, people often wonder if it is even possible to clear it in the very first attempt. While the competition and the vast syllabus could be intimidating, there are certainly factors that contribute to successfully passing the IAS exam right at the first shot. Moreover, there are certain challenges one may face while attempting to clear the exam on their first try. Thus, the following blog post aims to discuss these factors, challenges, and share tips and suggestions for increasing the chances of clearing IAS in the first attempt.

Factors that contribute to clearing IAS in the first attempt

Clearing IAS in the first attempt is an uphill task. Yet, it is not impossible if the candidate strong and unwavering preparation. Let us discuss some important contributing factors that successful candidates have emphasized on:

» Strong Preparation and Dedication

IAS is a difficult exam, and there is no beating around the bush about that fact. Thus, the most critical factor that contributes to successfully clearing it is a candidate's commitment to hard work. Aspirants need to demonstrate the passion and persistence necessary to complete the extensive syllabus and ace the exam. One can only do this if they put their heart and soul into their preparatory process.
 

» Clear Understanding of the Exam Pattern and Syllabus

Along with dedication, aspiring IAS candidates need to be aware of the exam pattern and syllabus thoroughly. Understanding the right materials to read, devising a proper study plan, and becoming comfortable with the topics in the syllabus are critical factors for success. Moreover, by analyzing previous year's question papers, candidates can gain insights into the exam pattern and type of questions asked.

IAS exam pattern
 
 

» Regular Practice and Mock Tests

Practicing various mock tests is one of the best ways to prepare for the IAS exam. It helps examinees understand the exam's nuances, increase the speed and accuracy of answers, and acclimate them regarding the exam duration. Moreover, regular practice can make one confident about their skills and enhance their ability to handle pressure during the exam. 

» Strong General Knowledge (Cut off)

General knowledge is a crucial component in the IAS exam. To clear the high cut off of this exam, it is essential to improve General Knowledge and understand one's information retention capacity. 

» Effective Time Management and Planning

Time management and planning are critical when it comes to clearing the IAS exam. Time management helps candidates to complete their syllabus on time and to take mock tests regularly. Thus, having a plan/strategy, such as allocating a certain number of hours for each subject and exam practice, can help candidates to be more organized.

Challenges faced while clearing IAS in the first attempt


While clearing IAS is difficult, clearing it the first time is even more challenging as a candidate would need to face many unavoidable hurdles:


» Increasing Competition and Number of Applicants

As the Indian economy booms, more and more students want to secure a job in the civil services sector. The competition, therefore, has increased drastically year over year. This increased competition also means that the examiners raise the bar for candidates, making the syllabus more complicated, and the cut-off much tougher.

 

» Vast Syllabus and Limited Time

IAS is one of the most challenging exams in India, and the syllabus is vast. It isn't feasible to learn everything, so candidates need to know how to prioritize. Just because a topic was in the exam last year, it doesn't mean that it will necessarily be in the exam next year. But it does mean that that subject is important and should not be overlooked.

 

» Unforeseen difficulties during the exam

The IAS exam is challenging in every sense of the word. From the format of the exam to the level of difficulty, it is hard to be completely prepared for what's to come. Unforeseen difficulties during the exam can be overwhelming, regardless of how prepared one is. Such hurdles can include time constraints, challenging questions, or distractions during the exam.

 

» Pressure and Stress

Pressure and stress are inevitable for aspirants of IAS examinations. However, increased stress levels can lead to performance anxiety, which can have an adverse effect on candidates' overall performance.


 

Success stories of candidates who cleared IAS in the first attempt


Success stories of candidates who have cleared IAS in the first attempt are truly motivating and an eye-opener for aspirants. Their inspirational narratives help to understand the path they took and the strategies they used to ace the exam. Here are a few:
 

» Inspirational Stories of Successful Candidates

One such success story is Kanishak Kataria, who secured the All India Rank (AIR) 1 in 2018. He cleared the exam in his first attempt and attributed his success to perseverance and planning. Another remarkable candidate is Anudeep Durishetty, who cracked the exam in his very first attempt and secured the AIR 1 in 2017. He has emphasized the significance of time management and creating a tailor-made syllabus plan.
 

» Inspirational Stories of Successful Candidates

One such success story is Kanishak Kataria, who secured the All India Rank (AIR) 1 in 2018. He cleared the exam in his first attempt and attributed his success to perseverance and planning. Another remarkable candidate is Anudeep Durishetty, who cracked the exam in his very first attempt and secured the AIR 1 in 2017. He has emphasized the significance of time management and creating a tailor-made syllabus plan.

 

» Their Preparation and Strategy for the Exam

Successful candidates often emphasize the importance of a structured approach towards preparation and a foolproof strategy to crack their plan. Kanishak Kataria, for instance, followed an 8-hour daily routine and consistently reviewed his notes to complete the syllabus on time. Anudeep Durishetty assigned a specific amount of time for every subject every day and made no compromise in studying regularly and efficiently.

 

» How they overcame challenges and obstacles

IAS aspirants face many hurdles during their preparation phase. The successful candidates who cleared the exam in their first attempt had to face the same challenges. Kanishak Kataria, for example, found the prelims to be tough and had to improve his memory skills. Anudeep Durishetty suffered from anxiety and consistently worked to manage his stress levels. Such success stories can serve as excellent sources of inspiration for aspirants.


 

Tips and Suggestions for clearing IAS in the first attempt


Enrolling oneself in reliable IAS coaching classes can help in clearing the doubts and providing guidance to develop an effective study plan. Such coaching classes will include experts and mentors who can guide the candidate towards successfully clearing the IAS exam.




» Develop a Study Plan and Stick to It

Having no plan to prepare for IAS could be crippling, and not having one may result in confusion, making it harder to progress in IAS preparation. Thus, create a tailor-made study plan that includes precise study hours, mock tests, and effective revision. Sticking to the plan, however, is equally important.

» Focus on Accuracy Rather than Speed during the exam

The trick to clearing IAS is not trying to finish early, but focusing on accuracy. Thus, one has to be careful and take time when answering. The questions in the IAS exam come with negative marks, so it is crucial to read, understand, and answer each question correctly.

 

» Brush up on General Knowledge and Current Affairs Regularly

General knowledge and current affairs play a significant role in the IAS exam. It is essential to keep oneself updated with the latest news and practice answering questions on current affairs regularly. One can achieve this by reading the newspaper daily, watching the news, and enrolling in current affairs classes.

 

» Stay Positive and Motivated throughout the preparation phase

Preparation for the IAS exam may take months, and it can be challenging to stay motivated throughout. Candidates must remain positive and keep their eyes on the prize to successfully clear the exam in the first attempt. Listen to motivational speeches or music, discuss doubts with mentors or friends, and regularly take breaks to avoid burning out.

 
 

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Conclusion

Clearing the IAS exam is no easy task, but it is not entirely impossible either. As discussed above, a few dedicated preparatory steps, such as a committed plan, effective time management, and solid practice, can increase the chance of clearing the exam in the first attempt. Focused preparation and help from a mentor can go a long way in bolstering up an aspirant's chances of passing the IAS examination on their first try. Thus, stay committed, stay calm, and follow the suggestions and tips discussed above to succeed in the exam.

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