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How can I prepare for UPSC exam without coaching?
1. Understand the exam format and syllabus The UPSC exam consists of three stages: Prelims (Objective, General Studies, and CSAT) Mains (Descriptive exams, including Essay, GS, and electives) Interview (Personality test) Download and read the UPSC syllabus carefully. Keep it with you while studying.Read more
1. Understand the exam format and syllabus
The UPSC exam consists of three stages:
Prelims (Objective, General Studies, and CSAT)
Mains (Descriptive exams, including Essay, GS, and electives)
Interview (Personality test)
Download and read the UPSC syllabus carefully. Keep it with you while studying.
2. Gather the right books and resources
NCERT (6th to 12th grade): History, Geography, Politics, Economics, Science
Standard books:
Politics: Laxmikant
History: Spectrum Modern History
Economics: Ramesh Singh (or any simple guide)
Geography: NCERT + GC Leong
Environment: Shankar IAS book
For current affairs: The Hindu, Indian Express, or GDP summaries
3. Create a Study Plan
Divide your time between the topics for the prelims and the main exams.
Study 6 to 8 hours a day if possible, with breaks.
Review regularly; don’t just read through the text.
4. Practice Answer Writing
For the main exam, practice writing short, clear answers.
Use simple language, relevant facts, and examples.
If possible, participate in free online answer-writing challenges.
5. Solve Past Papers and Mock Papers
Review at least 10 years of UPSC exam papers.
Take mock papers for the prelims and main exams to understand time management.
6. Keep up with current events
Read current affairs newspapers or magazines monthly.
Take short notes to review.
7. Choose Your Elective Carefully
Choose a subject you feel comfortable with and can cover well.
Use standard reference books and practice past papers.
8. Self-Discipline and Consistency
Avoid over-referencing; stick to limited material.
Revise multiple times.
Create a daily schedule and follow it strictly.
9. Use Free Online Resources
Government websites (GDP, PRS, ministerial reports).
Free YouTube lectures, UPSC blogs, and strategies for top performers.
10. Take Care of Yourself
Stay healthy, sleep well, and manage stress.
A calm and balanced mind facilitates long-term preparation.
In short: Start with NCERT exams → Move on to standard books → Review → Practice answer writing and mock exams → Keep up with current events → Be consistent.
See lessHow to stop chickenpox from spreading?
To prevent the spread of chickenpox, keep the sick person away from others until all their blisters have dried and scabbed over (usually 5 to 7 days). Wash your hands frequently and maintain good hygiene. Getting vaccinated against chickenpox is the best way to protect against the disease. Also, makRead more
To prevent the spread of chickenpox, keep the sick person away from others until all their blisters have dried and scabbed over (usually 5 to 7 days). Wash your hands frequently and maintain good hygiene. Getting vaccinated against chickenpox is the best way to protect against the disease. Also, make sure infected people stay away from newborns and anyone with a weakened immune system, as they are at higher risk.
See lessHow to apply for PM Awas Yojana 2025?
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) is a government housing program launched in 2015 to provide affordable housing to the urban and rural poor. It offers subsidies for home loans under the Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) and also financial assistance for home construction, purchase, or renovatRead more
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) is a government housing program launched in 2015 to provide affordable housing to the urban and rural poor. It offers subsidies for home loans under the Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) and also financial assistance for home construction, purchase, or renovation.
In 2025, the program will continue to support the Economically Deprived (EWS), Low Income Groups (LIG), and Middle Income Groups (MIG-I and MIG-II).
You can apply both online and in person.
1. Online Application
Steps:
Visit the official website: https://pmaymis.gov.in
Click on “Citizen Assessment.”
Select the correct category:
For slum dwellers
Benefit under 3 other components (EWS/LIG/MIG)
Enter your Aadhaar number and verify it.
Complete the form with information such as name, household income, current address, employment, and bank details.
Upload the required documents.
Submit and note your application/reference number for follow-up.
2. In-Person Application
Visit your nearest Common Service Center (CSC) or your bank/financial institution associated with PMAY.
Request the PMAY application form.
Complete the information and attach photocopies of the required documents.
Submit the form and obtain an acknowledgment.
Required Documents
How to Check Your Application Status
Visit https://pmaymis.gov.in.
Go to “Citizen Screening” → “Track Your Screening Status.”
Enter your application/reference number or Aadhaar number.
Check the current status.
See lessHow to make passive income in India legally?
1. Fixed Deposits (FDs) and Recurring Deposits (RDs) Banks and post offices offer fixed interest on deposits. Safe and stable option for conservative investors. Interest rates: 6%–7.5% per annum (varies by bank). Taxes: Interest is taxed under "Income from Other Sources." 2. Dividend Income from StoRead more
1. Fixed Deposits (FDs) and Recurring Deposits (RDs)
Banks and post offices offer fixed interest on deposits.
Safe and stable option for conservative investors.
Interest rates: 6%–7.5% per annum (varies by bank).
Taxes: Interest is taxed under “Income from Other Sources.”
2. Dividend Income from Stocks and Mutual Funds
Invest in dividend-paying stocks or Dividend-Yielding Mutual Funds.
Companies distribute part of their profits as dividends.
No active investment is required once invested.
Risk depends on market performance.
3. Rental Income from Properties
Buy residential, commercial, or co-living spaces for rent.
Regular monthly income without much investment.
Platforms like NestAway, MagicBricks, and NoBroker help find tenants.
Taxes: 30% standard deduction available on rental income.
4. REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts)
Invest in real estate through publicly traded REITs.
Lower capital requirements compared to purchasing properties.
Example: Embassy Office Parks REIT, Mindspace REIT.
Income is earned in the form of dividends or interest distributions.
5. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Lending
Platforms like Faircent and LenDenClub allow lending money directly to borrowers.
Return: 10%–15% per year, higher than fixed-term deposits.
Risk: Borrower default, but the platforms use risk ratings.
It’s important to check if the platform is registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
6. Intellectual Property Royalties
If you create books, music, courses, software, or patents, you can earn royalties.
Example: Self-publishing on Amazon Kindle, creating online courses on Udemy.
Once published, the content continues to generate passive income. 7. Digital Products and Affiliate Marketing
Create ebooks, templates, stock photos, or apps and sell online.
Create a website, blog, or YouTube channel and monetize with affiliate links or ads.
Income continues to flow as long as the content remains relevant.
8. Government Schemes
The Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS), Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS), and Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGB) offer secure passive income.
Regular interest or dividend payments.
See lessWhat is the best optional subject for the UPSC mains?
There's no ideal UPSC optional subject: it depends on your background, interests, and access to learning resources. However, some electives are more popular and have performed better over time. Check out previous year's papers and the strategies of top candidates before finalizing your registration.Read more
There’s no ideal UPSC optional subject: it depends on your background, interests, and access to learning resources. However, some electives are more popular and have performed better over time. Check out previous year’s papers and the strategies of top candidates before finalizing your registration. Avoid choosing an elective just because it’s trendy; focus on one that matches your strengths. Here are some interesting options, however:
- Anthropology: Short syllabus, graded, ideal for science graduates
- Sociology: Easy to understand, overlaps with GS I and the dissertation
- Geography: Visual, map-based learning, overlaps with GS I and GS III
- PSIR (Political Science and International Relations): Excellent overlap with GS II and the dissertation
- Public Administration: Popular with working professionals, overlaps with GS II
- History: Useful for GS I, the dissertation, and the preliminaries
- Philosophy: Short syllabus, conceptual clarity required
- Literature: Ideal for those with a strong grasp of a language
See lessWhat are the tips for cracking the UPSC on the first attempt?
Passing the UPSC Civil Services Exam on the first attempt is entirely possible; many candidates have achieved this through a smart strategy, discipline, and consistency. Here are some key tips for success on your first attempt: Understand the Syllabus and Exam Flow Read the UPSC syllabus carefully fRead more
Passing the UPSC Civil Services Exam on the first attempt is entirely possible; many candidates have achieved this through a smart strategy, discipline, and consistency. Here are some key tips for success on your first attempt:
Understand the Syllabus and Exam Flow
Read the UPSC syllabus carefully for the prelims, mains, and interview.
Understand the UPSC’s expectations: analytical thinking, clarity, and conceptual knowledge.
Start Early with NCERT
Start your preparation with NCERT books from Grades 6 to 12.
Focus on History, Geography, Political Science, Economics, and Science to build a solid foundation.
Create a Realistic Study Plan
Make a daily, weekly, and monthly schedule.
Balance time between reading, revision, and practice exams.
Be consistent, not just intense.
Stay informed about current affairs
Read The Hindu or the Indian Express daily.
Follow monthly current affairs compilations (IAS Vision, Insights, etc.).
Practice your answers early on
Start practicing your answers for the main exams within 3 to 4 months of preparation.
Focus on clarity, structure, and adherence to the word limit.
Take practice exams regularly
Take the preliminary practice exams to improve your speed and accuracy.
Take a series of main exams to hone your writing skills.
Choose the right optional subject
Choose an optional subject based on your interests, experience, and scoring potential.
Don’t blindly follow trends: choose what works for you.
Revise several times
Revision is essential: take short notes and review them regularly.
Try to revise at least three times before the exam.
Maintain good mental and physical health
Take breaks, eat well, and sleep well.
Avoid burnout: the UPSC is a marathon, not a sprint.
Believe in yourself
Stay positive and avoid comparing yourself to others.
Trust your plan and stay focused on your journey.
Final advice: Start with a solid foundation, avoid unnecessary distractions, and be consistent. Many candidates pass the UPSC on the first attempt, not by luck, but through careful preparation.
See lessWhat are the NCERT books to be read for UPSC?
NCERT books are essential for building a strong foundation in UPSC preparation. Here I provide the list of NCERT books you need for UPSC preparation: History Class 6–8: Our Past series Class 9: India and the Contemporary World – I Class 10: India and the Contemporary World – II Class 11: Themes in WRead more
NCERT books are essential for building a strong foundation in UPSC preparation. Here I provide the list of NCERT books you need for UPSC preparation:
History
Class 6–8: Our Past series
Class 9: India and the Contemporary World – I
Class 10: India and the Contemporary World – II
Class 11: Themes in World History
Class 12: Themes in Indian History I, II & III
Old NCERTs by RS Sharma, Satish Chandra, and Bipan Chandra are also highly valued
Geography
Class 6: The Earth Our Habitat
Class 7: Our Environment
Class 8: Resource and Development
Class 9–10: Contemporary India I & II
Class 11: Fundamentals of Physical Geography, India – Physical Environment
Class 12: Fundamentals of Human Geography, India – People and Economy
Polity
Class 9: Democratic Politics – I
Class 10: Democratic Politics – II
Class 11: Indian Constitution at Work, Political Theory
Class 12: Contemporary World Politics, Politics in India Since Independence
Economics
Class 9: Economics
Class 10: Understanding Economic Development
Class 11: Indian Economic Development
Class 12: Introductory Microeconomics, Introductory Macroeconomics
Science & Environment
Class 6–10: General Science textbooks (especially for Prelims)
Class 12 Biology: Last 4 chapters (for Environment & Ecology)
Sociology & Society
Class 11: Understanding Society
Class 12: Indian Society, Social Change and Development in India
Art & Culture
Class 11: An Introduction to Indian Art
Class 12: Living Craft Traditions of India (select chapters)
See lessWhat are the best government jobs after graduation in India?
1. Civil Services (IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS) Exam: UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) Why it's the best option: High prestige, power, and opportunity to influence policy. Advantages: Job security, official housing, official vehicle, domestic service, and a lifetime pension. 2. Public Sector Banking (PoRead more
1. Civil Services (IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS)
Exam: UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE)
Why it’s the best option: High prestige, power, and opportunity to influence policy.
Advantages: Job security, official housing, official vehicle, domestic service, and a lifetime pension.
2. Public Sector Banking (Postal Officer, Office Officer, Administrative Assistant)
Exam: IBPS, SBI PO, RBI Grade B
Why it’s good: Stable and prestigious job with career advancement opportunities in the banking sector.
Advantages: Good salary, housing subsidies, medical benefits, and overseas postings (for the RBI).
3. Defense Services (Army, Navy, Air Force)
Exam: CDS, AFCAT, INET
Why it’s good: A challenging and respected career for those who value discipline and adventure.
Advantages: Free housing, healthcare, canteen, and lifetime pension.
4. Engineering Services (IES/ESE)
Exam: UPSC Engineering Services Examination
Why it’s good: Ideal for engineering graduates who want to work in railways, energy, telecommunications, or infrastructure.
Advantages: High authority, government housing, and job security.
5. SSC-CGL Jobs (AAO, Inspector of Income Tax, CBI, Customs, Excise)
Exam: Staff Selection Commission – Combined Graduate Level (SSC-CGL)
Why it’s good: Wide variety of positions in ministries and departments.
Advantages: Steady promotions, job security, and the opportunity to work in research, auditing, or administration.
6. Railway Jobs (RRB)
Exam: Railway Recruitment Board (RRB)
Why it’s good: Ample opportunities in technical and non-technical positions with good salaries.
Advantages: Free or discounted travel, accommodation, and room and board.
7. Teaching and Research Jobs
Exam: UGC NET, CSIR NET
Why it’s good: For those inclined toward teaching or research. You can become an adjunct professor or join research institutions.
Advantages: Respect, job flexibility, and career development in the educational field.
8. Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs)
Recruitment: GATE exam or direct recruitment
Why it’s good: Jobs in companies such as ONGC, NTPC, BHEL, GAIL, and IOCL.
Advantages: High salary, benefits, and job security.
9. Judicial Services
Exam: State Judicial Services Examination (for law graduates)
Why it’s good: Respected position as a judge or magistrate.
Advantages: High authority, housing, and security.
10. State Government Jobs
Exam: State PSCs, state examinations
Why it’s good: Wide range of administrative, law enforcement, and teaching jobs at the state level.
Advantages: Job stability, housing, and pensions.
See lessWhich is better: IIT vs NIT vs Private Colleges?
IITs, NITs, and private universities each have their own strengths. IITs: Considered the best in India, they offer top-notch faculty, a strong research culture, excellent placement opportunities, and global recognition. Getting into an IIT is highly competitive, but it opens the door to top-tier comRead more
IITs, NITs, and private universities each have their own strengths.
IITs: Considered the best in India, they offer top-notch faculty, a strong research culture, excellent placement opportunities, and global recognition. Getting into an IIT is highly competitive, but it opens the door to top-tier companies, higher education abroad, and leadership positions.
NITs: A step below the IITs, but still prestigious. They offer good infrastructure, strong alumni networks, and good placement opportunities, especially in key areas of engineering and IT. For many students, NITs are the next best option after the IITs.
Private universities: These tend to vary considerably. Top-tier private institutes like BITS Pilani, VIT, or SRM can compete with NITs in terms of placement opportunities. However, many private universities are average, with high fees and poor industry connections.
In short, if you get into an IIT, it’s usually the best option. NITs are solid alternatives. Private universities are only good if you choose the top-tier ones.
See lessCan Dentists tell if you Smoke?
Yes, dentists can often detect if you smoke. Smoking leaves several signs in your mouth that are easy for a dentist to detect, such as: Yellow or brown stains on your teeth and tongue Bad breath that doesn't go away easily Gum disease or receding gums Delayed healing after dental treatment LeukoplakRead more
Yes, dentists can often detect if you smoke.
Smoking leaves several signs in your mouth that are easy for a dentist to detect, such as:
Even if you brush your teeth and use mouthwash regularly, these signs can be visible. Dentists are trained to detect them during routine checkups.
See less