Animesh Pradhan
UPSC CSE 2023
Optional
Sociology
About
Animesh Pradhan is a UPSC topper who secured All India Rank 2 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2023. He is from Angul district, Odisha, and completed his Engineering in Computer Science from NIT Rourkela. He worked full-time at Indian Oil Corporation while preparing for the exam.
Related Resources
Marks Breakdown
Written Total
892
Interview
175
Grand Total
1067
| Paper | Marks |
|---|---|
| Essay | 133 |
| General Studies I | 109 |
| General Studies II | 127 |
| General Studies III | 103 |
| General Studies IV | 134 |
| Optional Paper I | 133 |
| Optional Paper II | 153 |
Key Insights
- 1
Create a structured study plan with specific time slots for each subject.
- 2
Prioritize regular revision and practice previous year's question papers.
- 3
Develop a habit of staying updated with current events and news.
- 4
Seek guidance from experienced mentors for valuable insights and advice.
- 5
Maintain a calm demeanor during the interview, answering questions confidently and concisely.
- 6
Attribute success to hard work, dedication, and perseverance.
- 7
Stay focused and motivated through positive self-talk and a growth mindset.
- 8
Balance full-time work with UPSC preparation through effective time management.
Preparation Strategy
Background
Growing up in Odisha, I was always fascinated by the world of governance and public service. My parents, both government employees, instilled in me a sense of responsibility and duty towards society. I pursued my passion for computer science, graduating from NIT Rourkela. However, I soon realized that my true calling lay in the realm of public service.
Study Plan
I began my UPSC journey with a clear goal in mind: to secure a top rank in the exam. I created a structured study plan, allocating specific time slots for each subject and topic. I focused on understanding the exam pattern, syllabus, and marking scheme. I also developed a habit of regular revision, making notes, and practicing previous year's question papers.
Challenges
The biggest challenge I faced was balancing my full-time job at Indian Oil Corporation with my UPSC preparation. I had to master the art of time management, prioritizing my tasks, and staying focused. I also encountered self-doubt and fear of failure, but I learned to overcome them through positive self-talk and a growth mindset.
Strategies
To crack the UPSC exam, I employed several strategies:
- Focused preparation: I dedicated specific time slots for each subject, ensuring I covered all topics thoroughly.
- Regular revision: I made it a habit to revise my notes, practice previous year's question papers, and review my progress.
- Mock interviews: I participated in mock interviews to improve my communication skills, body language, and confidence.
- Current affairs: I stayed updated with current events, news, and issues, incorporating them into my study material.
- Mentorship: I sought guidance from experienced mentors, who provided valuable insights and advice.
Interview Experience
The interview experience was a mix of emotions - excitement, nervousness, and anticipation. I was well-prepared, having rehearsed my responses to common questions. I maintained a calm demeanor, answering questions confidently and concisely. The panel members were friendly and engaging, making the experience enjoyable and interactive.
Success
Securing All India Rank 2 was a dream come true. It was a testament to my hard work, dedication, and perseverance. I attribute my success to my well-structured study plan, regular revision, and effective time management. I also credit my mentors, family, and friends for their unwavering support and encouragement.
Notes, Answer Copies & Resources
GS Paper 1
GS Paper 2
GS Paper 4
Optional Paper I (Sociology)
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