Time management plays a vital role in preparing for any competitive/non-competitive examination. Juggling their time between attending coaching classes regularly and day-to-day activities leave little to no time for UPSC aspirants to self-study. While aspirants must complete their syllabus on time, they also need to take care of their physical and mental health. Poor time management leads to stress, demotivation, and self-esteem issues.
In this blog, we will be focusing on the importance of time management, as well as a few tips and tricks on how to manage their time effectively for the UPSC CSE exam.
| TABLE OF CONTENT Reasons Why Time Management Important for UPSC Aspirants Tips For Managing Time Effectively Conclusion Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) |
Reasons Why Time Management Important for UPSC Aspirants
With sky-high competition and limited availability of seats, it becomes even more difficult for an aspirant to clear the UPSC CSE examination. That is where time management comes into play, as it helps aspirants get a better picture of their goals and makes their preparation journey a lot smoother.
- Helps in organizing and achieving goals
Effective time management helps get aspirants a better idea of their goals. By dividing the curriculum into smaller, manageable units and making a flexible yet effective schedule, aspirants can make the most of their study sessions. Moreover, the achievement of completing tasks on time will motivate them to keep pushing harder.
- Limits the distractions
Dedicating a fixed schedule for their studies ensures that aspirants do not waste their time on other unnecessary activities. Having a proper study routine helps them combat their urge to get distracted. When they have an already planned study schedule, it is easier for them to not get distracted by social media platforms, video games, television, etc. It develops self-control among the aspirants, which limits their internet consumption.
- Helps in building confidence
An effective time management technique ensures that aspirants do not feel overwhelmed with the sheer amount of syllabus. It ensures that aspirants are consistent with their efforts in their CSE exam preparation journey. An effective routine will make sure they complete their tasks within the deadline, which ultimately builds their confidence for the final exam day.
- Balance studies with other activities
Time management also helps aspirants to balance their studies with other daily activities. While UPSC preparation demands hard work, dedication, and consistency, the importance of physical and mental well-being cannot be undermined. Effective time management helps them have enough time for their hobbies, interests, family, and friends.
Tips For Managing Time Effectively
Now that we have an idea about the importance of time management in preparing for the UPSC CSE examination. Let’s learn a few tips and tricks to manage time effectively.
- Set your priorities
The first step towards managing their time should list their priorities. Once they have this sorted, they can move to build a schedule accordingly. Having concrete information about the exam details such as important dates, patterns, and duration, is as crucial as being aware of their syllabus. Aspirants must also read their syllabus thoroughly, as it helps to identify topics that carry higher weightage and get more frequently asked in the examination.
- Create a study schedule
Build a schedule and stick to it. It is important for candidates to create a timetable as per their needs and not copy someone else’s from the internet. They don’t have to sit for 12 hours straight just because someone on youtube does so. They should focus on creating a study routine that makes them feel motivated and not discouraged.
- Track your progress
Now that they have a flexible schedule in their hands, the next step is to track their progress. Maintain a journal, and it doesn’t have to be fancy. Aspirants should jot down every little task on their hands a day before, as it helps clear their minds for other important things like their preparation. By tracking their progress regularly, they also get alarmed in case of distractions instantly and without any external help.
- Have realistic expectations
While it is important for aspirants to respect their deadlines, overwhelming themselves with long continuous hours of preparation will only end up making them feel more tired and lethargic. Their efforts should be consistent to achieve their goals within the allotted time frame, but putting effort into completing unrealistic goals will only mess with their self-esteem. Building small and realistic goals and achieving them will help in keeping the spirits high.
- Learn to take breaks
Aspirants should take proper breaks between their study sessions to avoid feeling overwhelmed and demotivated. Dedicating a few hours of their day to catching up with family and friends, or doing something they are passionate about such as painting, running, or cooking, will help them to feel calm and clear their minds. They should not rush through their syllabus to complete it before everyone else, as they will not be able to understand the concept properly.
- Read the Examination Details thoroughly
Lastly, jumping to cover their syllabus as soon as possible without reading the examination details properly is another mistake that aspirants do. Since the examination is known by so many different names, aspirants get confused about it. In fact, one of the most popular questions among UPSC aspirants is “What is CSE in UPSC?”.
The CSE in UPSC stands for the Civil Services Exam, which is one of the many exams conducted by the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) recruiting agency. The examination gets held once every year to recruit candidates eligible for Group A central government services.
Conclusion
To sum up, time management plays a key role in preparing for the Civil Service Examination. It will help the aspirants to utilize their time effectively while in the examination hall and attempt every question they get. It also helps to ensure that they cover all the topics and revise them thoroughly before the exam. With good time management, aspirants can have a balanced study routine, reducing the likelihood of exhaustion and mental pressure. In short, time management is the key to success in civil services, and aspirants who master this skill will be able to perform better and achieve their desired results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Why does it take so long to complete the UPSC CSE syllabus?
Ans. Since the UPSC CSE exam consists of multiple stages, it may take up to 12 months for UPSC aspirants to complete their syllabus.
Q2. Is it possible to crack UPSC in 3 months?
Ans. It is indeed possible to clear UPSC within 3 months. But candidates must follow a strict study routine to complete their syllabus on time. They must also give regular mocks to identify their strong and weak areas.
Q3. Can I apply for UPSC after giving my 12th exam?
Ans. No, aspirants must have a bachelor’s degree from any government-recognized institution in order to apply for the UPSC CSE examination.
