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Last Minute Tips and Tricks for UPSC Prelims Exam 2023

The Preliminary Examination which is going to be held on 28 May 2023 is the first stage of this three-tiered selection process, consisting of two objective-type papers: General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II (CSAT). These are stressful times and trust us, we understand the gravity of your situation. In the following points, we are sharing some UPSC Prelims exam day tips through some Do’s and Don’ts for the exam. These are certainly not some wisdom mantras but are designed to help you keep yourself ready. Please have a read and try to inculcate them in these last moments.

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Last Minute Tips for the UPSC Prelims Exam

Revise Important Topics: Focus on revising the key topics from all the subjects covered in the exam. Prioritize areas with higher weightage and ensure you have a good understanding of the concepts.

Practice Mock Tests: Take mock tests and previous years’ question papers to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and improve your time management skills. It will also help you identify your weak areas that need additional attention.

Analyze Current Affairs: Stay updated with the latest current affairs and revise important events, government schemes, and policies. Focus on national and international news, government initiatives, and socio-economic developments.

Pay Attention to Basic Concepts: Review fundamental concepts from subjects like History, Geography, Polity, Economy, and Science. Focus on understanding the concepts rather than rote learning.

Solve Objective Questions: Practice solving multiple-choice questions (MCQs) to improve your speed and accuracy. This will help you get accustomed to the exam format and enhance your ability to eliminate incorrect options.

Time Management: Strategize how you will allocate your time for each section and stick to it during the actual exam. Ensure that you give sufficient time to each question and section while keeping an eye on the clock.

Take Care of Your Health: Get enough sleep the night before the exam to stay fresh and focused. Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated. Avoid excessive stress and maintain a positive mindset.

Read Instructions Carefully: On the day of the exam, carefully read the instructions mentioned on the question paper and answer sheet. Understand the marking scheme and follow the guidelines provided by the UPSC.

UPSC tips for prelims 2023: Do’s

Candidates appearing for the UPSC exams must adhere to the following instructions:

  1. Carry the Admit Card: Remember to carry a printed copy of the admit card downloaded from the official UPSC website. Ensure that your photograph is clearly visible. If not, bring a valid photo ID card such as an Aadhar card, PAN card, passport, or driving license along with the e-Admit card.
  2. Use a Black Ballpoint Pen: Make sure to have an adequate supply of stationery for the prelim exam. The commission allows only black ballpoint pens for marking the answers on the OMR sheet. Avoid using pencils or colored pens. It’s advisable to carry spare pens and refills.
  3. Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the exam center at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled time. This allows for any unexpected delays, such as traffic congestion or unforeseen emergencies. Arriving early ensures you have ample time to locate your assigned room and seat. It also provides a few minutes to relax and gather your thoughts before starting the UPSC exam.
  4. Wear an Analog Watch: Candidates are permitted to wear analog watches during the exam. Wearing a wristwatch enables you to monitor the passage of time and manage it effectively. You don’t have to rely solely on the invigilator for time updates. However, note that smartwatches or digital watches are not allowed.

By following these instructions, candidates can ensure a smooth and organized experience during the UPSC Prelims exam. It’s important to adhere to the guidelines provided by the commission to maintain a fair and consistent examination process.

Tips for UPSC Prelims 2023: Don’ts

Here are instructions regarding prohibited actions during the UPSC Prelims Exam:

  1. Avoid Carrying Gadgets or Mobile Phones: The commission strictly prohibits the entry of electronic gadgets into the exam hall. Refrain from carrying any such devices. Mobile phones must be submitted before entering the hall, so remember to bring a bag to safely store your phone.
  2. Maintain Calmness: It is crucial to approach the exam with a calm and composed mind. Panicking can hinder your ability to recall what you have learned and think logically. If you feel overwhelmed, focus on the positive aspects and attempt the questions you know well. Remember that difficulty may be experienced by many candidates, so avoid unnecessary worry.
  3. Do not take stress: Trust yourself and your hard-earned knowledge. It is indeed possible that you would have left some portion of the syllabus. And it is possible for everyone. No one is omniscient! What’s more important is you perform well in the sections you are well-versed in.
  4. In the examination hall, do not panic. If you have found some tough questions, you will get easy ones too. Just keep reading the questions with a calm mind.
  5. Do not start discussing the paper after it is over. Wait for an authentic answer key from a credible institution.
  6. In case the whole question paper is tough, still you have no reason to worry as this is a competitive exam, which means cut-off is relative to how others have performed. It is certainly possible that what is tough for you, is tough for everyone.
  7. Do not leave circling the answer until the last minute, and in case you do it, make sure you are keeping at least 15 minutes for it. If you think you can do it faster, try solving the rest of the questions in the rest of the time. In any case, do not keep less than 15 minutes. You don’t need us to tell you what would happen otherwise.

By adhering to these instructions, you can ensure compliance with the exam rules and maintain a clear mindset, enabling you to perform to the best of your abilities.

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FAQs

How should I manage my time during the UPSC Prelims Exam?

Time management is crucial for the UPSC Prelims Exam. Allocate specific time slots for each section and question. Prioritize easy and scoring questions, and if you get stuck on a difficult question, move on and come back to it later if time permits.

How can I improve my general knowledge for the UPSC Prelims Exam?

To enhance your general knowledge, read newspapers, magazines, and quality online sources regularly. Focus on current affairs, government schemes, important events, and socio-economic developments. Make concise notes to revise effectively.

Is it important to solve previous years' question papers for the UPSC Prelims Exam?

Yes, solving previous years' question papers helps you understand the exam pattern, identify important topics, and practice time management. It gives you an idea of the type of questions asked and improves your confidence for the actual exam.

What is the best way to revise for the UPSC Prelims Exam?

Revise by creating concise notes, mind maps, or flashcards summarizing key concepts and facts. Focus on understanding rather than memorization. Regularly review important topics, current affairs, and practice solving MCQs to reinforce your knowledge.

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