Kshitiz Aditya Sharma's Preparation Strategy

Background

Growing up, I always knew I wanted to make a difference in the world. I came from a middle-class family in Bhopal and was the first one to pursue a career in law. I cleared CLAT and became a lawyer, but I soon realized that corporate law wasn't for me. I wanted to make a more meaningful impact, so I decided to take the UPSC exam.

Study Plan

My study plan was structured and emphasis was laid on quality rather than quantity. I started by decoding the syllabus backward - reading it alongside PYQS to understand what UPSC really expects. 30-40% of Mains GS is direct or indirect from PYQS. I made a list of all the topics and subtopics and created a schedule to cover them all. I also made sure to allocate time for revision and practice.

Challenges

The biggest challenge I faced was balancing my corporate job with my UPSC preparation. I had to work long hours and still find time to study. There were times when I felt like giving up, but I kept pushing forward. I also faced challenges in the interview round, where I had to answer questions on current events and policy-making.

Strategies

My strategy was to focus on my weak areas and improve them. I identified my weaknesses and created a plan to overcome them. I also made sure to practice consistently and review my notes regularly. I used various resources like NCERTs, standard books, and online materials to prepare for the exam.

Interview Experience

The interview round was a challenging but rewarding experience. I was asked questions on current events, policy-making, and law. I was also asked to give my opinion on various topics and explain my thought process. I made sure to be confident and articulate in my responses and to provide specific examples from my experience.

Success

Securing AIR 58 in the UPSC CSE 2024 was a dream come true. It was a result of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. I learned that success is not just about achieving a goal, but also about the journey you take to get there. I also learned the importance of staying focused and motivated, even in the face of challenges.

• Identify your weaknesses and improve them
• Create a structured study plan
• Practice consistently and review regularly
• Stay focused and motivated
• Be confident and articulate in your responses
• Provide specific examples from your experience
• Stay up-to-date with current events and policy-making
• Use various resources to prepare for the exam
• Take breaks and practice self-care
• Stay positive and believe in yourself

Conclusion

My journey to securing AIR 58 in the UPSC CSE 2024 was not easy, but it was worth it. I learned valuable lessons about hard work, dedication, and perseverance. I also learned the importance of staying focused and motivated, even in the face of challenges. I hope that my story can inspire others to pursue their dreams and never give up on their goals.