Nandanaa G P's Preparation Strategy

Background

I come from a small town in Kerala, and my journey to becoming a UPSC topper was not an easy one. I had to work hard to overcome various obstacles and stay focused on my goal.

Study Plan

My study plan was quite rigorous. I would wake up early every morning and start my day with a review of the previous day's notes. I would then move on to reading and making notes on the current topic. I would also allocate time for practicing questions and solving mock tests.

Challenges

One of the biggest challenges I faced was time management. With so much to study and so little time, it was easy to get overwhelmed. I had to learn to prioritize my tasks and manage my time effectively.

Strategies

Keyword-based approach: I solved the UPSC previous year question papers keyword wise, like all the assumption questions together, all the inference questions together, etc. This helped me to identify patterns and improve my speed.

• I would make a list of all the keywords and phrases that I needed to focus on.
• I would then practice questions related to those keywords and phrases.
• I would also make sure to review and revise my notes regularly.

Regular practice: I consistently wrote one 10-marker and one case study every day for two months before the Mains. This regular practice significantly improved my writing skills and helped me to stay focused.

• I would allocate a specific time slot for writing practice every day.
• I would make sure to review and revise my writing practice regularly.
• I would also practice writing under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam experience.

Interview Experience

My interview experience was quite smooth. I was well-prepared and confident, which helped me to handle the questions with ease.

• I would make sure to review and revise my interview notes regularly.
• I would practice answering questions on current events and general knowledge.
• I would also make sure to stay calm and composed during the interview.

Success

My success in the UPSC CSE 2024 was a result of my hard work and dedication. I was able to achieve my goal of becoming a topper, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences with others.

• I would make sure to stay motivated and focused throughout the journey.
• I would also make sure to review and revise my notes regularly.
• I would practice answering questions on current events and general knowledge.

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Additional Tips

• Make sure to stay motivated and focused throughout the journey.
• Review and revise your notes regularly.
• Practice answering questions on current events and general knowledge.
• Stay calm and composed during the interview.
• Prioritize your tasks and manage your time effectively.
• Use a keyword-based approach to solve questions.
• Practice writing under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam experience.

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Final Thoughts

My journey to becoming a UPSC topper was not an easy one, but it was definitely worth it. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences with others and hope that they will find it helpful in their own journey.