Rishabh Bhatt

Background

I come from a small town in Uttar Pradesh called Bhadohi. Growing up, I was always fascinated by the world of governance and administration. I wanted to make a difference in people's lives, and I knew that a career in the civil services would give me the opportunity to do so. I pursued my B. Tech in Mechanical Engineering from National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, and after completing my degree, I started preparing for the UPSC CSE.

Study Plan

My study plan was quite flexible, to be honest. I didn't follow a rigid schedule, but instead, I set weekly targets for myself. I prioritized my studies based on the importance of each subject and the time I had available. I focused on understanding the concepts and applying them to real-life scenarios. I also made sure to revise my notes regularly, using a combination of flashcards, concept maps, and practice questions.

Challenges

One of the biggest challenges I faced during my preparation was time management. With a full-time job and other responsibilities, it was difficult to allocate sufficient time for studies. I had to be very disciplined and prioritize my tasks accordingly. Another challenge I faced was dealing with self-doubt and frustration. There were times when I felt like giving up, but I pushed through and reminded myself of my goals.

Strategies

Smart Revision: I believe that smart revision is key to cracking the UPSC CSE. It's not just about memorizing facts and figures, but also about understanding the concepts and applying them to real-life scenarios. I used a combination of flashcards, concept maps, and practice questions to revise my notes.

• Focus on understanding concepts
• Use a combination of study materials
• Prioritize revision over rote memorization
• Use practice questions to test your knowledge

Interview Experience

My interview experience was quite nerve-wracking, to be honest. I had prepared for months, but I was still nervous about how I would perform. However, I took a deep breath and focused on answering the questions to the best of my ability. I tried to be myself and showcase my personality, rather than just regurgitating facts and figures.

Success

Securing the 363rd rank in the UPSC CSE 2023 examination was a dream come true for me. It was a culmination of all my hard work and dedication. I am proud of myself for pushing through the challenges and staying focused on my goals. I hope that my story can inspire others to pursue their dreams and never give up on their aspirations.