Strategizing Your UPSC CSE Mains Preparation Post Prelims 2020
With the conclusion of the UPSC CSE Prelims 2020 examination on October 4th, the immediate euphoria has certainly subsided. As serious aspirants gear up for the Mains examination in just three months, it is essential to strategize a future course of action. Having abundant experience with the UPSC CSE, I am confident in providing guidance on how to navigate your preparation.
Dividing Aspirants into Categories
Based on their performance in the Prelims, aspiring UPSC candidates can be categorized into three groups:
Category 1: Candidates Certain of Acquiring a Prelims Win
This category includes candidates who are highly confident about their performance in the Prelims exam. My advice to them is to redirect all their resources, whether time, energy, or mental focus, exclusively towards Mains preparation. Since the Mains determine one's fate in the UPSC CSE, this is the pivotal stage. Begin with a SWOT analysis to identify strengths and weaknesses, and create a tailored study schedule. Engaging in a robust crash course can provide an additional advantage. I chose the IAS GYAN’s Mains Capsule Programme for Ethics, Essay, and Social Issues modules, as well as Geography as an optional. Complementary modules on Indian Society, Modern History, and Art and Culture are also available. This course offers personalized feedback, answer writing sessions, and group revision, which I found to be beneficial.
Category 2: Candidates on the Borderline
This category comprises candidates who are uncertain about their Prelims results but are within the borderline. Inspired by past experiences, these candidates might have answered questions correctly based on the official key. However, the Mains preparation should remain uninterrupted. These aspirants should adopt the same strategy as if they will clear the Prelims. This ensures that they do not lose valuable time and maintain a consistent momentum towards the Mains exam.
Category 3: Candidates Certain of Not Clearing Prelims
For candidates who are almost certain they will not clear the Prelims, a period of mental and physical re-energization is imperative. A break of three to four days can help in regrouping. After resuming, an impartial analysis of what went wrong during the prelims can be crucial. My advice to these candidates is to focus on their optional subjects while the results are provisional. This allows for a balanced approach to revision and answers the doubts. Once the results are out, they can start preparing for Prelims 60, prioritizing topics that require more attention based on their weaknesses.
Key Considerations for Mains Preparation
Regardless of the category, a few key considerations can guide the preparation:
Timetable Creation
A well-structured timetable is vital. It should cover all subjects, including optional subjects and general studies. Prioritizing topics that need more attention and allocating specific time slots for answering practice questions can enhance efficiency.
Crash Courses and Tutoring
Judging the effectiveness of crash courses like the IAS GYAN’s Mains Capsule Programme for personalized feedback and structured learning is crucial. Similarly, Vision Insights Forum IAS offers similar benefits. Personalized feedback and consistent practice with answer writing can significantly improve performance in the Mains.
Psychological Readiness
Maintaining a positive and resilient mindset is essential. Mental resilience and the ability to manage stress can contribute to better performance. Engaging in stress reduction techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or physical exercises, can also be beneficial.
In conclusion, the road to success in the UPSC CSE Mains is challenging but attainable with the right strategy and preparation. By categorizing oneself and focusing on preparatory steps, one can enhance their chances of success in the upcoming Mains examination.