7 UPSC CSE myths you should not believe
UPSC civil services exam is not an easy exam to crack, with more than 10 lakh candidates applying at the preliminary stage for 1,000 or so vacancies. UPSC aspirants tend to believe in common UPSC CSE myths about the examination process. The fear of failing and getting misguided by UPSC CSE myths proves fatal for many. Hence along with detailed preparation, revisions, and intensive study, it is also crucial that aspirants should clear all doubts regarding the UPSC exams. UPSC candidates must study all topics and prepare well for the exams.
Let us bust some popular myths about the UPSC CSE.
UPSC CSE Myths # 1 Interview is difficult to ace
UPSC Interviews are a blanket round that tests your personality, knowledge base, confidence, and how you conduct yourself. Success in interviews may not always depend on correct answers but depend on the ways you answer in the negative.
Myth # 2 Follow toppers
Toppers may inspire aspirants, but you should understand that each candidate needs a different strategy. Learn to understand what works best for you and create a routine that best suits you. You may follow the tips given by toppers, provided you adapt them to your timetable, style, method, and pace of studying.
UPSC CSE Myth # 3 Aspirants have to study 20 hours a day
It is the mother of UPSC CSE myths because it is not humanly possible to sustain a 20-hour-a-day study routine for a year-long cycle. The correct way to study is to have a good strategy, regular sleep, relaxation, and proper food. Hence, the best way to prepare for the UPSC examination is to follow a personal timetable. UPSC candidates should focus on the quality of study hours rather than the number of hours.
Myth # 4 Knowledge of English is crucial for interviews
It is a misconception that being fluent in English is the deciding factor. Success in interviews does not depend on any particular language skill. It depends on the way the candidate expresses himself. Since UPSC candidates are from diverse backgrounds, they can take the exam and interview in any of the languages listed in the Constitution. It is perfectly okay to answer questions in Hindi, provided one does it with clarity and confidence.
Myths # 5 Only candidates from the elite class crack the UPSC
It is a misconception because anybody with regular preparation and a dedicated schedule can clear the examination irrespective of their family background. Recent results prove that candidates from humble and rural backgrounds can succeed.
Myths # 6 Candidates need excellent academic credentials
Anyone with a graduate degree can sit for the UPSC exams. The criteria to clear the examination are perseverance, regular study, correct concepts of topics, confidence, and dedication. The administrative services need good leaders and devotion to help build the nation. The recent success of many aspirants from modest backgrounds and simple graduate qualifications has proved this.
UPSC CSE Myths # 7 aspirants should know everything
No doubt UPSC syllabus can be difficult to cover. However, a careful selection of subjects, a thorough study of the syllabus, and a detailed analysis can lead to success.
Serious aspirants can find a pattern by analyzing the syllabus, topics, and past question papers. Instead of studying anything and everything, candidates must have a manageable list of books and emphasize being up-to-date with current affairs. Also, they should stop believing all UPSC CSE myths.