UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exams are considered to be one of the most challenging and prestigious exams in India. It is a dream for many to crack these exams and secure a position in the Indian Administrative Services (IAS), and Indian Police Services (IPS) among others.Â
However, for many, preparing for these exams while also working a full-time job can be a daunting task. Balancing the demands of a job with the rigorous study schedule required for UPSC exams can be challenging, but it is not impossible.
The key to success in UPSC preparation while working a job is time management. It is crucial to make the most of the time you have, whether it is during your commute, lunch breaks, or after work.Â
Additionally, staying motivated and focused on your goal is essential. It can be easy to get bogged down by the demands of your job, but it is important to remember why you are working so hard. Another important aspect of UPSC preparation while working a job is utilizing resources effectively.Â
There are many online resources, such as study materials, mock tests, and discussion forums, that can help you stay on track with your studies. Additionally, joining a study group or hiring a tutor can also be beneficial.
UPSC preparation while working a job can be challenging, but with proper time management, motivation, and effective utilization of resources, it is possible to achieve success in these exams. It is all about being smart and creative with the time you have and making the most of it.Â
With dedication and hard work, you can crack the UPSC exams and achieve your dream of becoming a civil servant.
UPSC Study Timetable for Working Professionals
Here is a timetable for a working professional aspiring for UPSC for working days –Â
- Wake up early in the morning. You will have fresh energy when you wake up. Utilize it to study some new chapters. Allot at least 2 to 3 hours in the morning for studies.
- While You compute to work. You may go through new lectures or alternatively, you may use it to brush up on current affairs.
- During Lunch time at work. use this time to review notes or read a chapter from your textbook.
- When you reach home after a long hectic day, you may feel little fatigue. Explore your hobbies like singing, listening to your favourite music, dancing, or cooking for 30 minutes. Alternatively, you may sing or listen to music while making some hot beverages like tea or coffee to calm and collect your energy.
- It will be difficult for you to grasp something new from your studies. So, better allocate time to revise your day of studies.Â
- Try to get a good amount of healthy sleep every day, at least 7 hours to get charged up for the next day.
- If you are confident of a high score after Prelims, take an extended study leave from work to focus solely on the Mains examination. The Mains examination will necessitate extensive preparation.Â
- During this time, enroll in a good IAS Mains Test Series to get enough practice for the exam.
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On Weekends –
Weekends are a great opportunity for working professionals who are preparing for the UPSC exams to catch up on their studies and make up for any time lost during the week. Here is a sample study timetable for the working professional on weekends –
- Wake a little late on weekends. While you may try to stick to your schedule. Something may come up that may push you out of your daily schedule. You may end up cutting down on your hour’s sleep. Weekends are a great opportunity to get a good amount of sleep
- Ideally, you should revise the week of your studies on the weekend. Especially on saturdays and attempt a few mock tests to evaluate your performance of the week.
- About 2-3 months before the Prelims exam, shift your focus to General Studies. Because the pattern of UPSC MCQs changes year after year, the CSAT paper will require dedicated practice.
Tips for UPSC Preparation Along with the Job
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Creating a study timetable is essential for working professionals who are preparing for the UPSC exams. A well-structured timetable can help you stay organized and make the most of the limited time you have for studying. Here are some tips for creating a UPSC study timetable for working professionals –
Assess your schedule:Â
The first step in creating a study timetable is to assess your schedule. Take into account your work hours, commute time, and any other commitments you have. Identify the times of day when you are most alert and focused, and schedule your study sessions during those times.
Prioritize your subjects:Â
It is important to prioritize your subjects based on their importance and level of difficulty. Allocate more time to the subjects that you find the most challenging, and less time to the subjects that you find easier.
Be realistic:Â
It is important to be realistic when creating your study timetable. Don’t schedule too much study time in one day as it can lead to burnout.
Use your breaks:Â
Use your lunch break and other small breaks throughout the day to study. You can use this time to read a chapter from your textbook or review your notes.
Review your timetable regularly:Â
Review your timetable regularly and make adjustments as needed. As you progress through your studies, you may find that you need to adjust your timetable to accommodate for changes in your schedule.
Create a routine:Â
Create a routine and stick to it. It will help you to stay motivated and focused, and it will be easier to remember when you should be studying.
Creating a study timetable is essential for working professionals who are preparing for the UPSC exams. With proper time management, motivation, and effective utilization of resources, it is possible to succeed in these exams. Remember, to be realistic with your schedule, Prioritize your subjects, use your breaks, review your timetable regularly, and create a routine to stick to it.