Vivek Singh

Background\n\nI come from a small town in Uttar Pradesh, and my family's financial situation was not stable. I had to work hard to secure a good education. I completed my engineering and then started preparing for the UPSC CSE. My goal was to become an IPS officer.\n\n### Study Plan\n\nMy study plan was quite holistic. I adopted a mains-cum-prelims strategy, ensuring comprehensive coverage. I used to study for around 8-10 hours a day. I followed a routine and made sure to cover all the subjects. I also used to take breaks and engage in physical activities to maintain my health.\n\n### Challenges\n\nThe biggest challenge I faced was time management. I had to balance my studies with other activities like attending interviews and giving mock tests. I had to learn to prioritize my tasks. I also faced self-doubt and anxiety, but I managed to overcome them with the help of my family and friends.\n\n### Strategies\n\nI used to read a lot of books and articles to improve my knowledge. I also used to attend mock interviews and give mock tests to improve my skills. I focused on my weak areas and worked hard to improve them. I also used to take care of my physical and mental health.\n\n### Interview Experience\n\nThe interview experience was nerve-wracking, but I was well-prepared. I had practiced answering questions and was confident in my abilities. I was asked questions on current events, history, and geography. I answered them confidently and was able to showcase my knowledge.\n\n### Success\n\nSecuring 256th rank in the UPSC CSE was a dream come true for me. I was overjoyed and proud of myself. I realized that hard work and determination can lead to success. I also realized the importance of time management and prioritizing tasks.\n\n### Key Points\n\n- Holistic study plan: I adopted a mains-cum-prelims strategy to ensure comprehensive coverage.

• Time management: I had to balance my studies with other activities like attending interviews and giving mock tests.
• Prioritizing tasks: I learned to prioritize my tasks and manage my time effectively.
• Improving weak areas: I focused on my weak areas and worked hard to improve them.
• Taking care of physical and mental health: I made sure to take care of my physical and mental health.
• Practicing interview questions: I practiced answering questions and was confident in my abilities.
• Staying motivated: I stayed motivated by reminding myself of my goals and the importance of hard work and determination.\n\n### Turning Points\n\n- Realizing the importance of time management: I realized that time management was crucial to my success.
• Overcoming self-doubt and anxiety: I managed to overcome self-doubt and anxiety with the help of my family and friends.
• Focusing on weak areas: I focused on my weak areas and worked hard to improve them.
• Staying motivated: I stayed motivated by reminding myself of my goals and the importance of hard work and determination.\n\n### Conclusion\n\nSecuring 256th rank in the UPSC CSE was a dream come true for me. I was overjoyed and proud of myself. I realized that hard work and determination can lead to success. I also realized the importance of time management and prioritizing tasks.