Abhinav Siwach

Background

I come from a humble background in Fatehabad district, Haryana. Growing up, I was always fascinated by the idea of making a difference in society. My father, a Haryana Civil Servant, was my inspiration. He would often share stories about his experiences and the impact he had on people's lives. This sparked something within me, and I knew I wanted to follow in his footsteps.

Study Plan

I started preparing for the UPSC CSE while working full-time as a South Delhi SDM. It was a challenging task, but I was determined to succeed. I allocated 7-8 hours daily for my studies, which included reading, writing, and revising. I focused on standard books like Laxmikant, Spectrum, and NCERTs for Prelims, and for Mains, I prepared notes and practiced writing answers.

Challenges

Balancing my professional responsibilities with my UPSC studies was a significant challenge. There were times when I felt overwhelmed, but I managed to stay focused and motivated. I also had to deal with self-doubt and imposter syndrome, but I pushed through it and reminded myself of my goals.

Strategies

My strategy was to stay consistent and persistent. I made a daily schedule and stuck to it, even on weekends. I also made sure to take breaks and practice self-care. I used to spend 2-3 hours in the morning reading and taking notes, and then I would take a break and come back to my studies in the evening. I also joined a study group and attended mock interviews to prepare for the actual interview.

Interview Experience

The interview was a nerve-wracking experience, but I was well-prepared. I had practiced answering questions and was confident in my knowledge. I was asked a mix of general and specific questions, and I made sure to answer them clearly and concisely.

Success

Securing the 12th All India Rank was a surreal experience. I felt a mix of emotions - happiness, relief, and pride. It was a culmination of all my hard work and dedication. I realized that success is not just about achieving a goal, but also about the journey you take to get there.

**Key Points: **

• Stay consistent and persistent in your studies.
• Make a daily schedule and stick to it.
• Practice self-care and take breaks.
• Join a study group and attend mock interviews.
• Be confident in your knowledge and answer questions clearly and concisely.

Additional Tips

• Read widely and take notes.
• Practice writing answers and make sure to revise them.
• Stay motivated and focused.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help.
• Believe in yourself and your abilities.

Final Thoughts

My journey to becoming a UPSC topper was not easy, but it was worth it. I learned so much about myself and the importance of perseverance and hard work. I hope my story inspires others to pursue their dreams and never give up on their goals.