This article featured in Competition Success Review in their March edition
Rau's IAS
After successfully introducing changes in the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2011, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is now looking at bringing about some changes in its Main Examination pattern as well. The scheme of Civil Services Preliminary Examination has been changed from 2011 as per the recommendations of the Alagh Committee, the Second Administrative Reforms Commission and an Expert Committee constituted by UPSC under the chairmanship of Prof. S.K. Khanna (Ex-Chairman, UGC). The changes in the Preliminary Examination have been well received, as they provide the candidates a level playing field leading to improvement in the quality of selections.
Consistent with the need for selecting the right kind of persons from the huge pool consisting of multiple languages, creeds, culture and communities, UPSC has constituted a high power committee to suggest possible changes in the pattern of the Civil Services Main Examination. UPSC Chairman Prof. D.P. Aggarwal, on the third UPSC foundation day, said that “UPSC is to insure that all the candidates are judged on the basis of indepth knowledge and understanding, rather than information gathered at the last movement”.
The Committee of Experts appointed in December, 2011 by the UPSC will review the existing structure of Civil Services Main Examination and will suggest necessary changes. The committee will consist of the following members :-
| 1. | Prof. Arun S. Nigavekar, Ex-Chairman, UGC; | Chairman |
| 2. | Shri Yogendar Narain, Retd. IAS, Former Defence Secretary, Government of India; | Member |
| 3. | Shri Prakash Chandra, Former Chairman, CBDT; | Member |
| 4. | Prof. Pankaj Chandra, Director, IIM, Bangalore; | Member |
| 5. | Prof. Priyankar Upadhyay, BHU; | Member |
| 6. | Shri R.N. Datta, Former Chairman, PWC South Asia and India; | Member |
| 7. | Additional Secretary, DoP&T, Govt. of India; | Member (Ex-Officio) |
| 8. | Additional Secretary, UPSC | Member Secretary |
The terms of reference of the Committee will be as follows.
(i) To identify the desired profile including the skill sets for the Civil Servants to enable them to deliver good governance in the fast changing domestic and global socio – economic and technological scenario.
(ii) To study the various selection methods currently in vogue globally for selection of Civil Servants.
(iii) To propose appropriate mechanisms and methodologies for selecting candidates with desired profile and skill sets indicated in (i) above suited to Indian context for the next decade.
(iv) To recommend a system for evaluation of the effectiveness of the selection methodology adopted by the Commission and the periodicity in which corrective action, if any, may be made in the selection methodology; for ensuring that it keeps pace with the changing requirements of the services.
(v) To recommend the role of the Commission in the assessment of performance of the candidates recommended by it during and at the end of the mandatory training period and in particular, where such assessments have the effect of altering the initial merit order recommended by the Commission as also where it is proposed to extend or terminate the probation of a direct recruit on the basis of unsuitability for Civil Service.
Any other issue, which the Committee may feel relevant to the process of selection of Civil Servants for the country, or which may be referred to the Committee by the Commission.
For its functioning, the Committee will devise its own procedures and it may set up such study group and take assistance of such experts as it may consider necessary in consultation with the Commission.
The Committee will submit its report within six months from its formation.
In my opinion, while suggesting the changes in the pattern of the Civil Services Main Examination, the Committee will look into the previous reports, particularly the Alagh Committee Report and Second ARC Report. The Alagh Committee, which was constituted by the UPSC in 2001, dealt elaborately with the changes in the pattern of the Main Examination. The Committee proposed to replace the optional subjects with a set of compulsory papers designed to test a broad spectrum of knowledge, skills and attitudes which would be more relevant to the requirements of entrants to the higher civil services. Each of the perspectives will lay the foundation on which the designated training academies for the civil services will build the necessary knowledge-base, skills-set and the desired attitudes required in the high demanding life of civil servants.
The candidates are tested and awarded a degree for the specific discipline by the universities. This serves as the entry point for them to apply for the civil services. The compulsory papers in the Mains examination will aim towards helping candidates widen their perspective so that they show a degree of readiness for entering a career in the service of the nation. Prospective civil servants cannot have a narrow or limited understanding of a particular discipline. They should be able to comprehend the factors which are relevant to the society to be served and display a level of understanding as may be expected of those desirous of entering the civil services. They should have sensitivity to current issues and debates, and know of some of the attempts of the government and civil society to address these issues and problems.
Given these aims, the papers should be such that they test the interest and the readiness of the candidates to work for society with some understanding of what they will face. The focus of these papers, therefore, should be to cover issues related to our society, social structure, political, technological and administrative governance, emerging areas of change – social, economic, political, and modern developments in science and technology as they affect society. More importantly, they should reflect (i) the ideals and values enshrined by the Founders of the Constitution, and (ii) total commitment to the most disadvantaged sections of our society.
The students who are preparing with the present scheme of Main Examination are worried not about the changes in the Main Examination pattern, but about when the changes will be implemented. Changes could be incorporated from the year 2013 or later. Basically, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet.
In my opinion, the term of reference of the Expert Committee suggests that it will be a time taking process. If we look at the previous changes introduced by the UPSC, they were quite slow in implementation. So, I suggest to the Civil Services aspirants they should not worry about the changes and the time of changes, instead they should focus on preparing for the exam on the basis of present pattern.
References:
Sir,
At present the change in mains 2013 is not clear. I would like to ask that uptill what time we will get notification from UPSC regarding applicability of pattern for mains 2013, that is, maximum upto which date UPSC will bring clarity on pattern of mains 2013 exams.
Please reply.
If UPSC will, then it would notify not before September 2012. It could be anytime from September till December 2012.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
SIR I AM 29 YEARS OLD . I AM M.SC. IN PHYSICS . NOW I AM TEACHING PHYSICS FROM LAST 5 YEARS. NOW I WANT TO PREPARE FOR IAS .CAN I DO IT.I BELONGS TO OBC CATAGORY. IF I CAN DO IT THEN HOW. TELL FULL INFORMATION ABOUT IT AND WILL SYLLABUS FOR 2013 EXAM CHANGE OR NOT. TELL ME ABOUT THE SUBJECTS. ALSO ABOUT THE MEDIUM OF THE PAPER. I READ GK BOOKS IN HINDI .
bhai aap obc hi isliye IAS de rahe ho kya ………..
respected Mr. Amit kumar,its good to see that you desire to compete for this exam at an age where most of the aspirants loose hope,this just replicates your spirit for this exam : I would request you to follow this link for eligibility criteria http://upsc.gov.in/exams/notifications/2012/csp/upsc%20civil%20services%202012.pmd.pdf . this is the official link to UPSC website. and coming to the question on general studies (in hindi medium) NCERT textbooks are available, pratyogitha darpan(hindi) and twice in a week spare 4 hours and google around on net that will be helpful.
i think there should be no change in upsc csm 2013 cos they have provided the schedule and earmarked 21 days for mains in toatal, these days are indication that this year there should be no change, and upsc will give notification of exam on 2nd of feb 2013. so be prepared for the existing pattern.
sir according to you will public administration be of any help if the pattern changes?or any other subject for that matter. please reply
Yes Angad, Pub Ad should definitely help in the changed pattern.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
thank you so much.my another doubt is if any changes can be made in the no. of attempts and more importantly in the maximum age limit which is currently 30 for general category….thank you once again
Reducing age would amount to huge opposition. So, even if it is brought in then it would not be applicable for those who are already 26 years of age.
i think that sociology will help you even if the pattern changes because it consists of society,social structure etc.
Sir,right now if I start preparing for 2013 IAS Exam & if UPSC make the changes in between then what is the impact of this on my preperation.
Dear Sandip,
In case pattern changes in 2013: (There is a speculation that optional subjects might be removed and replaced by compulsory papers)
First of all, the impact of change will be felt by everyone equally. Thus, you (or for that matter anyone else) will not be at any disadvantageous position vis a vis other aspirants.
However, you must read our article on ‘Expected Changes’ analytically and try to figure such subjects (or subject knowledge) which will retain their importance and prominence even in the revised pattern. For example your knowledge in General Studies, Public Ad, Pol Sc, Economics, etc would not go waste even in the revised pattern. On the other hand, if you spend a lot of time on acquiring knowledge (by learning such optional subjects) which you feel UPSC might not be interested to check/test you on in the revised pattern and the pattern changes, then you will end up wasting that much time.
What and exactly how the Mains pattern will change in 2013 is unclear. UPSC is expected to announce changes by or after September 2012. Till then, I suggest, you keep your focus on (start your preparation in) Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (General Studies and Essay writing) and not on irrelevant optional subjects.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir, i am student of japanese first year. But I want to prepare for upsc with degree of japanese . i came to know that from next year it does not required to have certain main paper for appearing for upse . should i keep preparing for it ? kindly comment.
Dear Vikky,
1) All pass graduates (from any stream) who possess a recognized graduation degree (recognized by UGC) are eligible to appear in Civil Services Examination.
2) Japanese is not available either as a medium of instruction or as an optional subject in Civil Services Exam.
I suggest that you first of all, read and understand the pattern and format of the examination. Download – http://www.rauias.com/iassyllabus.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
I am an engineering aspirant from civil branch. I want to start my preparations for IAS exams from now. So how should I start as I was thinking for your study material but as the pattern is changing from 2013.
Dear Sourabh,
In case pattern changes in 2013
(There is a speculation that optional subjects might be removed and replaced by compulsory papers)
You must read our article on ‘Expected Changes in IAS Mains Exam‘ analytically and try to figure such subjects (or subject knowledge) which will retain their importance and prominence even in the revised pattern. For example your knowledge in General Studies, Public Ad, Pol Sc, Geography, Sociology, Economics, etc would not go waste even in the revised pattern. On the other hand, if you spend a lot of time on acquiring knowledge (by learning such optional subjects) which you feel UPSC might not be interested to check/test you on in the revised pattern and the pattern changes, then you will end up wasting that much time.
How to prepare for Civil Services 2013 exam?
What and exactly how the Mains pattern will change in 2013 is unclear. UPSC is expected to announce the changes by or after September 2012. Till then, I suggest, you keep your focus on (start your preparation in) Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (General Studies and Essay writing) but do not focus on irrelevant optional subjects.
Level 1: Self study (laying foundation)
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
Reference material at Level 1
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
Level 2: Targeted Study (structured approach)
Once you get familiar with the basic concepts of General Studies, have refreshed your memory with basic knowledge acquired in various disciplines of Social Studies and General Science (in school), it is time for you to adopt a targeted and structured approach towards the Civil Services Exam. When you enter this level, you must start your preparation in at least General Studies (Mains and Prelims) + CSAT (or Aptitude test). The syllabus of General Studies of Preliminary and Mains stage is not different. Instead, the list of contents is more or less the same, only the pattern of questions asked is different. The Preliminary exam, which is objective type, requires careful scanning of option choices and arriving at the right answer choice (using the elimination technique) in the least possible time, whereas Mains exam requires you to write an analysis or a descriptive-essay type answer (based on the facts) for a question.
Therefore, you must start preparing for General Studies of both Preliminary and Mains together and in an integrated manner. Also, you must start preparing for Aptitude Test/CSAT alongside. This is because Aptitude test is a practice based paper and therefore you should spread the contents of this paper across the entire duration of General Studies preparation and practice them regularly.
Reference material at Level – II
At this level, you must follow:
For General Studies
• Rau’s IAS study material + focus on notes and lectures delivered in class + Substantiate this by going through the special editions of Pratiyogita Darpan in Geography, History, Indian Economics and Indian Polity.
• For Aptitude (CSAT)
Rau’s IAS study material+ Wren and Martin Grammar book
Be careful to what you might pick and study in the area of Aptitude testing from the market. The CSAT is an Aptitude Test modified to test the competency of a prospective IAS officer who ensures social justice and takes decisions under the shadow of ethics. All Aptitude Tests are modified Intelligence Tests (IQ Tests). Under the axiom that human intelligence is a function of two skills – Ability to express thoughts better and understand what others have to convey, and Cognitive Ability, all aptitude tests check for Verbal and Numerical Ability, with a smattering of Reasoning questions.
Apart from this CSAT, being a test of recruitment to Civil Services, will test whether a candidate can handle the kind of Decision Making under the shadow of Ethics that an ideal IAS is capable of.
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge
• You must make a regular habit of writing at least one page on current affairs and contemporary events, issues and affairs every day, of what you observe from newspapers/news, magazine, etc. Besides regularly reading Frontline and Pratiyogita Darpan you must refer to Manorama Year Book + India Year Book (GoI).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Thnx sir for your kind cooperation. I just do the same as you have stated here. I can’t go for admission to your centre as i am based in Kolkata. It would be of great help to know whether RAU’s IAS provide with distance Study Materials . I have Pub. Ad. and Sociology as my optionals. Looking forward for ur reply.
Gaurav Ghosh.
Dear Gaurav,
Yes we provide study material. Please find all the details of our study material at http://www.rauias.com/postalguidance.php.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,suggest subject to select for optional which cover maximum portion of change syallbus ,so even if it change it does not make any difference to my subjects,thanking u sir.
Dear Tushar,
There will be certain sections and portions (differing in weight age certainly) that will be picked up from various (relevant) optional subjects. UPSC has not given any official direction in this regard, however, knowledge in Public Administration, Sociology, Political Science, Geography, Economics, Science & Technology should be tested.
To be completely on the safe side, I suggest that you start your preparation in the compulsory papers of General Studies (for both Pre and Mains), Paper II (Aptitude for Pre), Essay (Mains) and Public Ad (for now). UPSC should give some direction in this area by later this year.
Regards,
rau’s IAS
THANKS….ab mujhe coaching karne ki jrurat nh hai .pichale sal apne aisi hi kripa ki thi ki is bar mera pre meselection ho gaya.
too much doubts had cleared in previous communication.do you suggest some books regarding that pattern? and how the coaching going? for the new batch? please guide me! I am willing to join the coaching for 2013 in june for the new batch.
Dear Abhinav,
There is no such book.
The new session will commence from 1st June 2012. Admission in on first cum first served basis.
Please feel free to contact our counselors should you need further information, counseling, etc.
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
Respected Sir/Madam,
The information provided by you here is really helpful. I will complete my Masters degree in Mathematics in July 2012. I believe that if mains pattern changes then Maths will be of no use. I wish to know which subject will be beneficial from the purpose of mains exam, so that I can prepare for the mains 2013. The subjects in my mind are :
1. Political Science
2. Public Admn
3. Law
4. Politics ( International Relations)
I am targeting mains 2013. Kindly suggest me subjects (from above or any other) which will be helpful because I’ve Science background. I just wish to know that which subjects will definitely be there in the changed pattern (any guess ?)
Thanks in advance
Rahul Kapoor
Dear Rahul,
See, out of the subjects you have shortlisted, Political Science and Politics (International Relations) is one and the same thing. The subject is called Political Science with International Relations. So, basically, you have shorlisted three subjects,
1)Pol Sc
2) Pub Ad
3) Law
Even out of these, Pub Ad and Pol sc are similar subjects and therefore they are not allowed to be taken together. Political Science is lengthier than Pub Ad and takes care of International Relations (which is a very important section in GS as well).
Law is a technical subject. One needs to have studied Law in graduation to take it in the capacity of an optional subject in Civils.
Though nothing can be said with certainty about the subjects that will be retained in the changed patten, but subjects like, Sociology, Geography, Pub Ad, Pol Sc, Economics should retain their importance even in the changed pattern.
In case you are targeting to appear in 2013 exam, you must start preparing for GS (Prelims and Mains together) and CSAT on the side (since this is a practice based subject, you can spread this across and study for it regularly – especially solving comprehensions). Along with this, you may pick up just one optional (maybe Pol Sc/Pub Ad) which will be helpful in one shape/form or another.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
I am 1st year Economics (hons.) student. I selected economics (hons.) as my graduation degree keeping in mind that I will be have Economics and history as my optionals. I am totally determined to be an IAS. But right now I am little worried about these subjects. Will they be helpful even after change in the pattern after. Will the history be so wide for the exam after changes?, because I have started to mug up history as my optional.
waiting for your reply sir.
thankyou
Dear Dushyant,
First of all, the impact of change will be felt by everyone equally. Thus, you (or for that matter anyone else) will not be at any disadvantageous position vis a vis other aspirants.
My suggestion would be that you focus on mastering Economics for now (which will help both in your graduation and in Civils later . Economics as a subject will remain relevant. Do not worry about 2nd optional subject already. Instead, if you must you should start studying for General Studies.
Instead of mugging up History from now onwards, a better idea would be that you go self study in the following direction:
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
I was planning to take CSE in 2013 but had not decided for the optional papers. I am a 4rth year B.tech Comp-sc student and comfortable with CSAT. Since no comp. sc. papers were there, I was planning on taking Geography with some other paper for mains. I have a little interest in Physics, but previous year questions were pretty difficult and your study material is also not available for physics. How good will be Pub Ad with geography. Will it be too vast to handle ? With the changes in view Will this be a good combination ?
Regards,
Anand
Dear Anand,
In short, Pub Ad with Geography will be a very good optional mix. This combination is also widely opted by majority science graduates.
Both these subjects will also be relevant in the changes scheme of Mains exam. Another relevant subject that you may consider your interest in is Sociology.
All the best,
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir, I am a final year bsc physics student.i want to do msc in physics.i want to be a civil servant.i need your advice about in which year i may be able to write the exam,which optionals may be suitable for me?is pub.ad and sociology combination allowed?
Dear Surya,
You are eligible to appear in the Civil Services Exam after completing your graduation and 21 years of age. Read about eligibility criteria from here.
Pub Ad and Sociology are both successful subjects, easy to comprehend and allowed to be taken together in UPSC.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-03-05/jaipur/31123596_1_upsc-exam-union-public-service-commission-ans
sir,
Now im planning for coaching for appearing prelims in 2013. should i take optionals or mains first
Dear Amani,
If you are planning to appear in Prelims 2013, you must start your preparation in at least General Studies (Mains and Prelims) + CSAT (or Aptitude test) and one optional subject.
Level 1: Self study (laying foundation)
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
Reference material at Level 1
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
Level 2: Targeted Study (structured approach)
Once you get familiar with the basic concepts of General Studies, have refreshed your memory with basic knowledge acquired in various disciplines of Social Studies and General Science (in school), it is time for you to adopt a targeted and structured approach towards the Civil Services Exam.
When you enter this level, you must start your preparation in at least General Studies (Mains and Prelims) + CSAT (or Aptitude test).
The syllabus of General Studies of Preliminary and Mains stage is not different. Instead, the list of contents is more or less the same, only the pattern of questions asked is different. The Preliminary exam, which is objective type, requires careful scanning of option choices and arriving at the right answer choice (using the elimination technique) in the least possible time, whereas Mains exam requires you to write an analysis or a descriptive-essay type answer (based on the facts) for a question.
Therefore, you must start preparing for General Studies of both Preliminary and Mains together and in an integrated manner. Also, you must start preparing for Aptitude Test/CSAT alongside. This is because Aptitude test is a practice based paper and therefore you should spread the contents of this paper across the entire duration of General Studies preparation and practice them regularly.
Reference material at Level – II
At this level, you must follow:
For General Studies
Rau’s IAS study material + focus on notes and lectures delivered in class + Substantiate this by going through the special editions of Pratiyogita Darpan in Geography, History, Indian Economics and Indian Polity.
For Aptitude (CSAT)
Rau’s IAS study material+ Wren and Martin Grammar book
Be careful to what you might pick and study in the area of Aptitude testing from the market. The CSAT is an Aptitude Test modified to test the competency of a prospective IAS officer who ensures social justice and takes decisions under the shadow of ethics. All Aptitude Tests are modified Intelligence Tests (IQ Tests). Under the axiom that human intelligence is a function of two skills – Ability to express thoughts better and understand what others have to convey, and Cognitive Ability, all aptitude tests check for Verbal and Numerical Ability, with a smattering of Reasoning questions.
Apart from this CSAT, being a test of recruitment to Civil Services, will test whether a candidate can handle the kind of Decision Making under the shadow of Ethics that an ideal IAS is capable of.
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge
You must make a regular habit of writing at least one page on current affairs and contemporary events, issues and affairs every day, of what you observe from newspapers/news, magazine, etc. Besides regularly reading Frontline and Pratiyogita Darpan you must refer to Manorama Year Book + India Year Book (GoI).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
respected sir,
I’d lik to ask dat is der any possibility in expected reforms by dr.nigvekar comittee to omit technical background students lik medicine or engineering??
Plz reply….
Dear Abhijeet,
The changes will be brought only in the scheme of the exam, by replacing optional subjects with compulsory papers for all. There might be no technical papers but only compulsory papers for all which will test you on things required to be a good civil servant (which will be general knowledge in a wide array of things – economics, sociology, geography, pol sc, pub ad, general science, sci and tech, etc etc).
But there is going to be no changes regarding eligibility. Every graduate will be eligible to appear in the exam.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
thanks a lot sir….it matters..
sir, what subjects will be der in the new syllabus and what will be the pattern? when will it come out officially?
Dear Nirbhay,
Nothing can be said unless UPSC declares the syllabus officially. It does not seem that UPSC will notify about the changes before October 2012.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir plz tel me 1 thng “is it possible to clear ias wth 1yr preparatn.i ve completd my prelims syllabus.
Prsntly in b.com ll.m vry hard wrkng.maintaing 70% agg in st.xvr and regular practicing bankng sylabus .PLZ REPLY
Dear Nitin,
There have been examples where candidates cleared Civils and got good ranks within their first attempt. There are also examples (only last year, in 2010, a girl from South India topped Civils in her 2nd attempt) wherein candidates have cleared Civils and got very good ranks in their 2nd attempt. And there are also cases wherein candidates have exhausted all their attempts without getting selected.
It all depends upon the candidate, his/her aptitude, study methodology and the direction he/she follows.
There is no such fixed limit of time that is required for the preparation. There are instances when people start preparing for the examination right from the school days. However serious preparation can be taken up from the midcourse of the graduation and must essentially peak soon after graduation. However there are instances when students have decided to take up this examination after masters degree. It is normally found that it takes about one year of serious preparation towards the attainment of the goal.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Replyplz
Hello sir,
Considering my abilities and capacities , I have decided to give my first attempt in 2014 after two years of coaching(I am going to complete my engineering graduation this year).
Initially,I had planned to cover optional and GS parallely.
I had two options in my mind, history and geography but after reading your article I have decided not to go for my earlier plan instead cover the GS paper thoroughly and one optional paper. Is there any possibility that the new syllabus will get rid of two optionals and instead have only one or are they going to completely get rid optional subjects itself?
Dear Raam,
Speculation is that optional subjects will get replaced by compulsory papers (compulsory papers will be relevant to the job area of civil servants). The exact scheme of examination will get clear only after UPSC formally notifies the changes.
It is completely safe to start preparation in GS (Prelims-cum-Mains), Essay and Aptitude paper. In optional subjects, you can start with Geography.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Thank you so much for replying sir.
Would the GS be there even after the change in pattern? If it would then ,Would the syllabus be the same?
Do you offer notes for GS mains?
Thank you.
sir,I m in 2nd year engg. and i have planned to give UPSC in 2014,i have buyed M Laxmikant for public administration, and now i m being informed that the patteren is changing, so should i continue preparing the public administration from the same book or do something else,is it safe if i prepare public adminisdtration now
Dear Vaibhav,
You can prepare in all sections of General Studies and Public Administration (it is safe).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Thank u vry much sir.
r/s sir,
i m studying in msc(c.s.) 2nd sem(with english medium).i want to know about the optional subjects for upsc main exams.which subjects are vary easy and scoring for upsc exam? and plz. send me their syllabus.& which books are best for them??
Dear Rehana,
1) List of Optional subjects in Mains – http://www.rauias.com/mainoptional.php
2) For help on selecting the optional subjects please go though our blog and related Q&As – http://www.rausias.com/blog/?p=69.
3) Exhaustive Syllabus is available here – http://www.rauias.com/iassyllabus.php.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir i am first timer to face prelims so could you suggest me how to prepare
sir, At present i joined as assistant executive engineer in irrigation department . I can hardly find 10 to 8 hours time to study. I cant take long leave till my probationary period (2 years) is completed. Is it possible for me to crack civilservice, by making the self study and by making self notes by going through standard text books.
Dear Sivakumar,
Nothing is impossible.
Guidelines for self study
One needs to keep in mind the basic fact that if the goal is to reach the highest level of achievement, then one must have not only ample patience for details, but should be able to keep the big picture regarding any theme in one’s mind at the time of study. Thus the preparation strategy is to follow a mix of both micro and macro level approaches. The first step in this direction is the understanding of the syllabus. One must look at the syllabus closely and in detail. After that, one should analyze the past years’ question papers that indicate the important areas, as well as, the real scope of the syllabus. Then comes the next step of apportioning of time depending on the importance and length of each area.
Prepare a time schedule which helps you cover the syllabus and keep you on track. You will have to be consistent and devote about six hours of quality time on a daily basis in the beginning. Your preparation must peak in the final year before your Civil Services Exam where in you must devote at least eight to ten hours of quality time on a daily basis. It is emphasized that more than quantity, quality of time must be given utmost importance.
The next step would cover the selection of right books and an efficient method to study them. The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read N.C.E.R.T. books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
Thereafter, one must refer to a study material which is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. One should look for a study material which is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Material should be comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam.
For study material click here
Vastness of the syllabus (required to be covered) is one of the main challenges in Civil Services Exam. I agree that it is difficult to devise a plan that will help you to cover the entire syllabus. My first advise will be that you follow an integrated approach towards covering the syllabi of the General Studies (Mains), Essay paper (Mains) and General Studies (Prelims). Go through the portions of GS (Mains and Prelims) which overlap with each other descriptively and remember points which are important from Prelims perspective objectively.
Alongside, you must devote time reading 1 newspaper (The Hindu/TOI) and 1 journal regularly (Frontline/Pratiyogita Darpan) regularly and analytically. [GS questions are becoming more practical in nature and are being increasingly based on knowledge of current affairs and general awareness (which can only be acquired from voracious reading of newspapers and magazines). Such questions may require application of more than one concept/fact. Aspirants should develop an application based approach to do well in General Studies paper.]
You must make a regular habit of writing at least one page on current and contemporary events, issues and affairs every day, of what you observe from newspapers/news, magazine, etc. The events of National and International importance which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view.
All the best.
Rau’s IAS
Sir, m a student of b.a.prgrm 1st year. i am a civil aspirant. i look forward to give my exam in 2014. so with the news regarding change in pattern could you accordingly tell me that what should i start with now ….
whats are the initial steps to b taken now ? how to start with my preparation ?
Dear Vaibhav,
Speculation is that optional subjects will get replaced by compulsory papers (compulsory papers will be relevant to the job area of civil servants). The exact scheme of examination will get clear only after UPSC formally notifies the changes.
You must start preparation in GS (Prelims-cum-Mains), Essay and Aptitude paper. Since you are 1st year only, do not worry about optional subjects already.
I suggest that till you get in 2nd year, you self study (work towards laying foundation). The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
Reference material
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
Important: For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir/Madam,
I am planning to write for CSAT 2013. I am working, and I generally work on Saturdays, so in which form can Rau’s help me. I am free whole day on Sundays and generally free by 7pm on weekdays, so is there any option for correspondence which some interactive features. Please guide.
Also, I am like everyone is very confused about main. I am an engineer by qualification but electronics and instrumentation not being an option,closest is electrical which is I am not very comfortable with. Earlier I wanted to take Maths as an option but there is almost no material available for the subject, also Economics is also not very preferential choice I guess. Other subjects which interests me are Political Science, Philosophy. But I am open to Public Ad. and History too. Please guide which subject I should chose among above mentioned. Also, should I look beyond it.
I have already started preparation for GS. But what to do about Optionals? should I leave it for the moment? How much time will I need given that what even I choose will be completely new to me. Is maths and economics a good option? If so when should I start and what should be my strategy ? Please reply. Thanks.
Dear Sumit,
We do not have any mix of correspondence and doubt clearance (partial interaction).
We provide:
1) study material (these are our books only without any assistance)
2) Personal Guidance program (coaching)
The only coaching program that I can suggest for you given your occupation is our Weekend Program wherein classes are conducted only on Saturdays (5-8) and Sundays (9 – 6). See details here.
About optional subjects: One is that you go through our blog on ‘optional subject selection’ and related/similar queries from http://www.rausias.com/blog/?p=69.
Secondly, optionals that you should consider in the changing scenario are Public Ad/Political Sc, Geography, Sociology (basically subjects you feel will remain relevant with the job profile of a civil servant). (Economics will get difficult and lengthy while Mathematics does not fit in the new proposed scheme of things). Also, better would be that you initiate preparation in GS (Pre-cum-Mains), Essay and CSAT immediately and on the basis of your understanding and liking developed in various sections of GS (while studying) you consider picking optionals later.
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
I want to get updated study material of yours for GS, CSE 2013. Please tell me when it will be made available. Please reply me soon
About the changes from 2013 i want to say that upsc must have thought about all the aspects such as:
1. An arts student will be benefited more and science and engg. students must have to suffer for the changes. This would lead to unjust selection.
2. There is no significance of past history and events before 1980s in today’s independent economy, so the history will never be supersede optional subjects. However one optional can be removed and be replaced by other subjects like pub ad, geography etc.
Please let me know if i am wrong.
Thanks
thnk u so much sir for ur valuable advice !!
just one more query that m plannin to start with my general studies (prelims cum main) coaching from november,12 onwards (i.e in my 2nd year) is it appropriate or should i do it in november,13 .??
Sir/Mam,
I’m a final yr Engineering student. I wish to take up CSE next yr. Owing to the possibility that 2013 mains may change, I have decided upon taking geography as one of my optional and the other i am still not sure. Which of these will be more helpful for GS(prelims and mains)? and better in overall view?
1)Geography and Pub Ad or
2)Geography and Political science & IR?
Please guide me through.
Thanks
Dear Varsha,
Nothing can be said with certainty regarding the relevance of present optional subjects in the changed pattern unless UPSC’s formally notifies about the changes.
However, both Pub Ad and Pol Sc are relevant subjects considering the changed pattern. You can go with either. Between Pub Ad and Pol Sc, the former is shorter in course length than the latter.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
i have been reading about the expected changes in the mains….the committe was made in december. We have a interview of UPSC chairman during march 2012 that he would like the chnages to happen in 2013 and he also said that the report will be coming by next year. does that mean that we will be informed about the change not before next year??
At least not before later in this year.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir/Mam,
I have also read ur previous comments on Geography and Political science that they are a bit lengthier. If in case You r suggesting geog and political science, will it be possible to cover them both in the stipulated time? Is it like Political science is a sub to be taken by tat sub major?
Dear varsha,
Yes, the syllabus to be covered in Pol Sc and Geography is comparatively lengthier (as compared to other subjects – for example Pol Sc which is similar to Pub Ad has comparatively more syllabus than Pub Ad), however, the extra length gets compensated by their syllabus overlap with General Studies. Both these optionals are good and successful in civil services.
In case you feel interested to take these subjects, then we recommend them!!
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
Sir i am in engineering 2nd year and i am targeting UPSC 2016 due to some age limitations. Since no start is early i want you to help me guide the various steps i should take for my preparation………. Is it sure that the pattern will change by that time???
Dear Utkarsh,
Nothing can be said with certainty unless UPSC notifies about the change publicly. But, on a general note, changes by 2016 seem possible.
Right now, you must start self study only in the following:
Read NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
Read NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
(Important) For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir/mam
Is there any chance of elimination of subjects like mathematics because i am opting for mathematics as my optional subject and i have started my preparations.
Dear Amit,
Nothing can be said with certainty unless UPSC notifies about the change publicly. However, on a general note, it seems that UPSC plans to replace optional subjects with relevant (relevant to the job area and profile of civil servants) compulsory papers (which will test candidates on subject matter/knowledge required to do well in the civil services domain).
At the same time, it cannot be said with certainty either that the changes will be implemented in 2013 itself. It could take longer as well. But the changes are expected to come sooner or later.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear Sir,
I have made up my mind to appear in 2013 attempt. My optional subjects are Commerce and Law and taking the coaching classes for the later. Law is infact an interesting subject. Most probably I will be through with this optional by the end of September, 2012 and side by side i am making my GS even stronger.
Please suggest should i start preparing for my second optional as well right now.
Regards,
Naveen
Dear Naveen,
That depends on how occupied you are with reading newspapers, magazines and studying Law and various sections of General Studies on a daily basis. I feel that because General Studies has a lot of different subjects to offer and Commerce & Accountancy has no overlap with any of the GS sections, you may pick it up later after completing Law. (That is, do not overload yourself with too many things at once. Rather master one completely and move on to the next while revising and maintaining hold on the first).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir i had taken pcbm in my 12 class . i am a civil service aspirant. i want to know whether i should do graduation from humanities side or science side. which of the 2 will be more helpful in achieving my dream. thank you
Dear Nitu,
See, there are a lot of science background students (from engineering backgrounds) who have cleared this examination by keeping optional subjects such as Public Administration, Political Science, Geography, Sociology, etc (basically, by opting subjects which they had not studied earlier). So, whether you take humanities or science right now will not have too much bearing on your selection later.
Yes, the General Studies (compulsory) paper of Civil Services Exam has sections from Public Ad, Pol Sc, Sociology, Geography, History, PCB (uptill class 10th), science & technology, etc. So a BA(p) program wherein a students learns multiple topics from the above list certainly proves beneficial. However, there will still be sections and portions of syllabus which you will have to do fresh to cover the UPSC’s CSE syllabus.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
respected sir ,
i want to know in which year of graduation shall one start taking coaching for civil services.
thank you
Sir
I passed my engineering in 2008. Presently i am working in ONGC. I have decided to prepare for 2013 civil services exam and i m not giving 2012 exam.
what are the chances of syllabus change.. and what subject should i study now so that my time is not wasted
Dear Mohit,
How to prepare for Civil Services 2013 exam?
What and exactly how the Mains pattern will change in 2013 is unclear. Whether the changes will be incorporated in 2013 is also not certain. UPSC is expected to announce anything regarding the changes by or after September 2012 only. Till then, I suggest, you keep your focus on (start your preparation in) Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (General Studies and Essay writing).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
Is there any chance that UPSC reduce eligibility age with the changes in mains fron 2013 or 2014? I mean will they notify years in advance for such changes or will do it just as they do for pattern change ?
Dear Mohan,
Nothing can be said already on that front (age reduction) because UPSC has not discussed that in any of the recent discussions/reports/news. UPSC has only been discussing about bringing changes in the pattern of the Mains exam (replacing optional subjects by compulsory papers). We’ll all have to wait for UPSC to formally announce/notify everybody of its plans (maybe later this year).
On a general note, reducing age limit is a radical change for which UPSC might give sufficient heads up.
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
Hi,
I am a MCA.Could you please suggest me the subjects that i should take for IAS 2013?
Regards
Dear Manish,
Please go through our blog on ‘Optional subject selection‘ and related Q&As for guidance on selecting optionals.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,i am a medical student,will be eligible to give ias in 2013,please guide me how to select optional subject which is more scoring and how to start preparing and the impact of changes in ias pattern if i choose medical science as one of the optional
Dear Tejasvini,
The worst case scenario is that all optional subjects (including Medical Science) will be replaced by compulsory papers (which might comprise subject knowledge from General Studies domain). However, nothing can be said with certainty unless UPSC formally notifies about the changes and year of implementation of changes.
What and exactly how the Mains pattern will change in 2013 is unclear. UPSC is expected to announce the changes by or after September 2012. Till then, I suggest, you keep your focus on (start your preparation in) Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (General Studies and Essay writing). Alongside, consider/evaluate your interest among subjects (various sections of General Studies) which you feel will be relevant from UPSC’s perspective to test candidates on for the job profile of a Civil Servant.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
respected sir/madam,
i will made my first attempt in 2016. i have started reading NCERT for building basic concept. but now i am in confusion whether i refer New NCERTs or Old NCERTs. please suggest me.
Thank You.
Refer to latest editions (definitely in Economics).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear Sir,
I’m currently 26 years old, completed MBA (Finance) & BTech (CSE) from premier institutions and has been working with an international bank for an year. To crack the coveted IAS has become my dream now. I’ve been reading in various websites/blogs that the government may reduce the age limit (current 30 for GC) along with coming up with new ‘mains’ pattern. I’ve no problem with the new ‘mains’ pattern. But, am currently in a dilemma whether to take that big leap and start preparation for IAS or should forget the idea altogether if at all the government reduces the age limit. Also, it would be a big confidence booster for me if you can shed any light on probability of candidates getting selected who are of 27-29 years age in the general category.
Thanks & Regards,
Mohan
Dear Mohan,
Nothing can be said already on that front (age reduction) because UPSC has not discussed that in any of the recent discussions/reports/news. UPSC has only been discussing about bringing changes in the pattern of the Mains exam (replacing optional subjects by compulsory papers). We’ll all have to wait for UPSC to formally announce/notify everybody of its plans (maybe later this year).
On a general note, reducing age limit is a radical change for which UPSC might give sufficient heads up.
Secondly, aspirants from across 21-30 years of age get selected every year. Do not worry about this at all.
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
respected sir,
thanx for your vakuable information on the expected changes.but i am 25 years now and have not taken a single attemp till now.I want to know what would be the age changes in the changes that upsc is probably going to take by 2013.
thanx
Dear Shashank,
UPSC has not indicated bringing any changes in the upper age limit or number of chances available to an aspirant.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir/madam
Being a civil service aspirant i started my preparation few months ago.But i find very hard to squeeze out time as i do a job in kolkata.My earnest request to you is to open a branch in kolkata as i find it too hard to find a good institute.And also it will be very helpful if give the list of expected changes pointwise.
Thanks
Dear Sourav,
We’ll all have to wait to formally hear from UPSC regarding the changes.
And, thankyou for your encouragement. We shall do all that we can to reach out and help as many candidates as possible within our constraints.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Respected Sir/ Madam
i am a government servant and can’t have more than 5-6 hours for study per day and want to give civil service exam in 2013. i have chosen history and pub. admin. as my two optionals.
pl suggest Is 5-6 hours is sufficient for study the whole syllabus and
tell me how to start prepartions?
Should NCERT books will help in gaining basic knowledge and also suggest some books of public admininstration and history.
thanks
Dear Saurabh,
There is no such fixed limit of time that is required for the preparation. However, 6 hours of quality time should be sufficient in the beginning. The idea is to be consistent and persistent. Devote 5-6 hours on a daily basis in the beginning and about 8 hours daily over the weekends. Take a break or sabbatical from job once you have reached closer to the Mains exam and need to devote about 10 hours on a daily basis.
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
THANKS SIR FOR YOUR REPLY.
Yours suggestions are very valuable to me.
Sir Can you also tell me some reference books of pub. admin.
thanks
saurabh
Dear Sir,
Can we take up the General studies Paper-1 and paper-2 in any language (medium of writing) of our choice in the main examination?.
Or
In English or Hindi?.
Dear Yogeesha,
Both the papers of the Preliminary Exam (which are objective type) are composed in English and Hindi only.
For the Mains exam candidates can opt to attempts them in any one of the languages included in the eighth schedule to the constitution or in English.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Respected Sir/Madam,
Greetings!!!
I am Prasad Chavan from mumbai and looking foward to give my first attempt in 2016.As of now as the change in mains are not clear in the picture and gone take lot more time as per Shri V. Narayanasamy, Minister of State in the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and PMO in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 07-may 2012.Please suggest me with the subject that could help me in scoring in combining with History.
Currently i am just concentrating on NCERT books as you suggested to other aspirants aspirants.
Changes in Civil Services Exam
There is no proposal to introduce changes in the Main Examination of the Civil Services Examination, at present. However, Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has appointed a committee of experts, headed by Prof. Arun S. Nigavekar, Ex. Chairman, UGC, to review the existing structure of Civil Services (Main) examination and suggest necessary changes.
Also there is no proposal to increase the number of attempts for all candidates appearing in Civil Services Examination conducted by UPSC.
This was stated by Shri V. Narayanasamy, Minister of State in the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and PMO in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.
Kindly adivce on above matter.
Regards,
Prasad Chavan
Dear Prasad,
Yes, whatever you have stated is the present status regarding the changes in the Mains exam.
What, exactly how and when the Mains pattern will change is unclear. There is a speculation that optional subjects might be removed and replaced by compulsory papers. However, nothing formally has been intimated by UPSC in public domain. UPSC is expected to announce the changes by or after September 2012.
Till then, I suggest, you keep your focus on (start your preparation in) Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (General Studies and Essay writing). As you have sufficient time before you will appear for this exam, my suggestion to you is that do not worry about optional subjects. Maximum, you may start preparing for Public Administration.
We should all have more direction in this regard by later this year or early next one.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hi,
I am preparing for civils 2013 examination.I graduated in 2011 and joined a software company.I want to prepare for examination quitting job.But my dad wants me to do job so that we have financial back-up.
Its becoming very difficult thing to prepare for examination after coming back to home after 11 p.m.I am in dilemma what step I have to take.So can you suggest me?Also can suggest me some innovative methods for preparing examination while doing ‘software’ job
Thanks
Dear Anant,
1) First of all, there are no innovative methods (or shortcuts) involved here. Civil Service Exam has a vast syllabus in both subject matter and general/current awareness. The only way to tackle with this vast syllabus is through dedication and perseverance.
One needs to keep in mind the basic fact that if the goal is to reach the highest level of achievement, then one must have not only ample patience for details, but should be able to keep the big picture regarding any theme in one’s mind at the time of study. Thus the preparation strategy is to follow a mix of both micro and macro level approaches.
The first step in this direction is the understanding of the syllabus. One must look at the syllabus closely and in detail. After that, one should analyze the past years’ question papers that indicate the important areas, as well as, the real scope of the syllabus. Then comes the next step of apportioning of time depending on the importance and length of each area.
Prepare a time schedule which helps you cover the syllabus and keep you on track. You will have to be consistent and devote about six hours of quality time on a daily basis in the beginning. Your preparation must peak in the final year before your Civil Services Exam where in you must devote at least eight to ten hours of quality time on a daily basis. It is emphasized that more than quantity, quality of time must be given utmost importance.
The next step would cover the selection of right books and an efficient method to study them. The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read N.C.E.R.T. books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
Thereafter, one must refer to a study material which is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. One should look for a study material which is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Material should be comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam.
Vastness of the syllabus (required to be covered) is one of the main challenges in Civil Services Exam. I agree that it is difficult to devise a plan that will help you to cover the entire syllabus. My first advise will be that you follow an integrated approach towards covering the syllabi of the General Studies (Mains), Essay paper (Mains) and General Studies (Prelims). Go through the portions of GS (Mains and Prelims) which overlap with each other descriptively and remember points which are important from Prelims perspective objectively.
Alongside, you must devote time reading 1 newspaper (The Hindu) and 1 journal regularly (Frontline/Pratiyogita Darpan) regularly and analytically. [GS questions are becoming more practical in nature and are being increasingly based on knowledge of current affairs and general awareness (which can only be acquired from voracious reading of newspapers and magazines). Such questions may require application of more than one concept/fact. Aspirants should develop an application based approach to do well in General Studies paper.]
You must make a regular habit of writing at least one page on current and contemporary events, issues and affairs every day, of what you observe from newspapers/news, magazine, etc. The events of National and International importance which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view.
2) Initiate your preparation alongside job. No need to quit job already. Try and devote some number of hours on a daily basis in the beginning and about 8-10 hours daily over the weekends. Take a break or sabbatical from job once you have reached closer to the Prelims exam and need to devote about 10 hours on a daily basis. Basically, initiate your studies right now and do not worry about quitting job. Take a call about your job later.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir, I have completed my MBBS and want to appear for upsc-2013.I have decided to take pub. Administration and anthropology as my optionals but i wonder whether anthropology be useful if the pattern in mains changes next year! Should i continue with anthropology or supplement pub. Administration with sociology? Also plz tell me refer books on anthropology or sociology…
Dear Abhishek,
In my opinion, Sociology will be a much safer bet than Anthropology. Go with Pub Ad and Sociology.
Read NCERT books in:
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
Thereafter, you must rely on a study material which is prepared in accordance with UPSC’s syllabus and pattern of questions.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
respected sir,
i m planning for CSE 2013 i have completed ncert books. my optionals are pub ad & geography. i want to join your coaching centre. but my problem is that my internship will complited in july2012 so i can join only at 15th july 2012. so sir plz suggest me what should i do? may i join ur weekend batch or regular batch?
sir plz help me.
thank you.
Pooja,
Given your circumstance, you should join our weekend batch which is starting 2nd June 2012 – http://www.rauias.com/weeken_batch.php.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
respected sir,
i am mohnish kumar completed engineering in electrical, i am started preparation for ias 2013 but confused about the latest pattern in 2013 that is change or not. if the pattern change than whats the new pattern in ias 2013. what subjects now i start for preparation?
give me some guidance
thanking you
Dear Mohnish,
What and exactly how the Mains pattern will change in 2013 is unclear. Whether the changes will be incorporated in 2013 or later is also not certain yet. UPSC is expected to notify or announce the changes (if any) by or after September 2012.
Till then, I suggest, you start your preparation in at least Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (General Studies and Essay writing). Along with this, preparation in one optional subject which is complimentary with the syllabus of General Studies, for instance, Public Administration or Political Science, Sociology, Geography etc would be a safe paper to prepare for. The information gathered in these subjects should be tested in some format or the other even in the revised pattern of the Mains examination.
However, we shall all still have to wait for UPSC to give us formal direction in this area.
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
Dear sir,
Can we write General studies paper 1 & paper 2 in any medium in main examination?
Dear Yogeesha,
Candidates have the option to answer all the question papers, except the qualifying language papers, in any one of the languages included in the Eighth Schedule to the Constitution or in English.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Respected sir
I am a govt servant and want to give exam in 2013
Igot only 5 hours of study per day
Is this sufficient time for preparation for civil service
can I start preparations of mains with two optionals history and pub ad.
Or wait for upsc notification for change of mains
pattern in 2013
Pl. Help
Dear Saurabh,
If you are consistent and devote quality hours of study towards your preparation, then nothing can stop you from achieving your goal. Yes, when you reach closer to the exam, you will have to devote more hours towards study.
Start preparation for 2013 in Prelims (GS and Aptitude), Mains (GS, Essay) and one optional subject (initiate with Pub Ad first). Start the second optional once you have completed the first one. Till then (i,e, later in this year Oct/Nov 2012) UPSC should notify (or give more direction) regarding the new pattern (if it plans to incorporate it in 2013 exam).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
respected sir,
i am planning to opt for psychology as my one of the option along with pubadmn.
bt i dont have even a penny basics of psychology. wt should i do… does ur academy provide a good training in psychl. subject. please help me ot sir.
Dear Syed,
Yes, we coach in Psychology. To develop basics in Psychology you could pick up NCERT books of class 11th and 12th.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
dear sir i want to know that with expected changes in mains pattern from 2013 will no of attempt or age will also be reduced or only mains pattern will change
Dear Shikha,
As of now, the focus is only on revising the pattern of Mains exam and not bringing any changes in the number of attempts or maximum age eligibility.
Nothing can be said already on that front (age reduction/attempts) because UPSC has not discussed that in any of the recent discussions/reports/news. UPSC has only been discussing about bringing changes in the pattern of the Mains exam (replacing optional subjects by compulsory papers). We’ll all have to wait for UPSC to formally announce/notify everybody of its plans (maybe later this year).
On a general note, reducing age limit is a radical change for which UPSC might give sufficient heads up.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir i am doing my post graduation in maths and want to prepare for civil cervices.
i’d be taking maths as one of my optional subject but i am afraid keeping the changing pattern in my mind. i am not good at mugging up things.sir please suggest me any subject
which has more logical and less cramming part and should i continue with maths as one of my preferences. And can i do any kind of correspondence course in your institution for same purpose?
Dear Abhishek,
What, exactly how and when the Mains pattern will change is unclear. UPSC is expected to announce the changes by or after September 2012. No one can tell already about the possible change in the pattern of the exam and the year by which the revised pattern will be implemented. So, we can only proceed logically and to be on the safe side:
1) Initiate preparation in Prelims(GS and Aptitude), Mains (GS and Essay)
2) 1 optional subject which seems relevant with the job profile of a civil servant. Maybe Public Ad, Sociology, etc
Initiate preparation in the 2nd optional subject (one from your choice) later. Maybe UPSC will give more direction and formal notification in this regard by later this year.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hi,
I wanted to take physics and chemistry for 2013 Mains. Will it be a stupid idea. No one can predict for now if the pattern will change in any manner by 2013 or not ? what do you suggest, should i change one of the subjects ? prepare just one of the above ? I am confused .
See mags,
As you have rightly pointed out, no one can tell already about the possible change in the pattern of the exam and the year by which the revised pattern will be implemented. So, we can only proceed logically and to be on the safe side:
1) Initiate preparation in Prelims(GS and Aptitude), Mains (GS and Essay)
2) 1 optional subject which seems relevant with the job profile of a civil servant. Maybe Public Ad, Sociology, etc
Initiate preparation in the 2nd optional subject (one from your choice) later. Maybe UPSC will give more direction and formal notification in this regard by later this year.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hi Sir,
I want to appear for UPSC examination, please tell me that whether i should start directly start coaching or shall i study on my own.
Dear Rajershi,
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept. However, once you have set yourself in mode and have refreshed your basics, you should embark on a more professional and targeted approach under proper guidance.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
Our 1st batch starts from 1st June 2012 – For details click here.
Our 2nd batch will start from 23rd Nov 2012 – for details click here.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
Being a CA and a commerce graduate, what should be the optional subjects that I should Select.
Dear Rajkaran,
You can certainly keep Commerce & Accountancy (as optional 1) and consider between Public Ad, Sociology, Geography (for optional 2). However, nothing can be said about the relevance of Commerce & Accountancy in case pattern of the Mains exam changes.
My advise would be that since you already are a CA, therefore, your Commerce & Accountancy would be strong, you can even pick it up later. Instead, consider which is the other subject which you would like to keep as your 2nd optional.
Read the following NCERT books to figure your interest amongst Pub Ad, Geography and Sociology respectively:
Civics: 6th – 10th
Geography: 6th – 12th
Sociology: 11th – 12th
Pick the one which interests you the most.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir, i have completed my graduation and i am preparing for IAS last 3 year. I am preparation by subject. now i am confuse what change will be in upsc main exam. please . sir please guide me what can i do . thanks
Dear Arvind,
What, exactly how and when the Mains pattern will change is unclear. There is a speculation that optional subjects will be removed and replaced by compulsory papers. UPSC is expected to announce the changes by or after September 2012. Till then, I suggest, you keep your focus on Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (General Studies and Essay writing).
In terms of optionals, keep as close to those subjects (Pub Ad, Sociology, Geography, etc) which you feel will be relevant even in the revised pattern. Read this article again carefully.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear Sir/Madam,
Is it too early to start coaching for civil services during our under-graduation? If not, Please do recommend me some coaching institutes in an around Delhi which can provide me part time/week end classes.
Dear Rocky,
If you are 2nd+ year in college then you may start formal preparation.
Our weekend classes are starting from 2nd June 2012 – For details click here.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
i have a 2nd class degree in engineering.. Will a 2nd class degree be a black mark or will it affect in some way during the selection process.. ??
Dear Santosh,
If you clear both the Preliminary and Main rounds of Civil Services Examination, then even before entering the interview hall you have proved to the board that you have what it takes to crack the toughest competitive examination in the nation. The way you handle your interview will show the board your true potential (and not your previous marks).
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
Pl. give me the following information:-
-is the syllabus of UPSC about to change completely objective types?
-are the subjects also being left?
-will the new syllabus contains maths, English & GS only?
Dear Devesh,
1) Prelims exam changed in 2011 (there would be no further changes here). Only the pattern of the Mains exam will change (if it will).
2) Speculation is that optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers. The content of the compulsory papers will be such which will test candidates on knowledge essential for the job profile of civil services.
3) No Maths. Read the article on expected changes carefully.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
Pl. give a model paper of expected UPSC-2013?
Dear Devesh,
The upcoming exam is 2012.
Model test papers for CS(P)E 2012 are available at http://www.rauiasonline.in/. This is an online platform. Follow the instructions and you’d be able to take 2 model/demo papers for Civil Services (P) Exam 2012.
2013 is far off.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
I passed out in 2009 as a mechanical engineer, and then joined Shipping corporation of india as a marine engineer , and left it due to sea-sickness (with just 1 month experience on ship and 1 year training period in marine engineering and research institute) ,Please help me in selecting subjects , I am not good in mugging subjects, and will my past Job create any impact during interview? PLZ SUGGEST subjects which i should go for.And what about PALI subject in mains?
Dear Chandan,
First thing, it is difficult to suggest optional subjects without speaking with the candidate, understanding her background, interest, inclination, aptitude, etc. On a general note, one must select such optionals which are complimentary with the syllabus of General Studies.
So, initiate your preparation in General Studies (Prelims and Mains). General Studies (the compulsory paper) comprises of section from Public Ad, Political Science, Sociology, Geography, History, etc. Once you initiate preparation in General Studies you will get to read matter on each of these topics. Thereafter, basis your interest and liking pick any two subject to pursue as your 2 optional subjects. That way anything that you will pick will be complimentary with General Studies paper as well.
FYI, majority students from science background opt for subjects like Geography, Pub Ad/Pol. Sc, Sociology and Psychology. Out of these, Pub Ad/Pol Sc, Sociology and Geography are complimentary with General studies. You need to understand the difference between these subjects and then take your decision.
1) Pub Ad – has concise syllabus – is relatively easier to learn – helps in ‘Indian Polity’ section of General Studies.
2) Sociology – is a social science that studies the functionality of human society including origins, development, and organization (or in other words the social characteristics of human society/culture). Or simply put, Sociology is study of society. It is an interesting subject and will help you with ‘issues of social Relevance’ section of General Studies and in the Essay paper.
3) Geography – is a conceptual subject – syllabus is lengthy but it helps in the Geography sections of General Studies paper.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hello !
I am in my 2nd yr of Engineering (BE Hons) wid Masters (MSc Chemistry) from Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani (Goa)..
Working for my city, my state, my country has always fascinated me.. so I have decided to take UPSC as my career. Though I wont be able to take CSAT any before 2016, but I will like to start preparing for it from now itself bcz its often said, the earlier u start, the better chance u have.
But the thing is I have got NO idea where shud I start frm. With the rumours of change in pattern of CSAT frm 2013, I m totally confused about how shud I start my preparation, frm where shud I start my prepation, what subject shud I take as my Optionals etc etc etc. I have got no one to guide me on this.
So, I wil b really really obliged if u guyz can kindly guide me a bit on :
1. What shud be the expected CSAT pattern at the time when I wil be appearing for it.
2. How shud I choose my Optional Subjects. Can I hav Chemistry and History as the 2 Optional Subjects.
3. How shud I start my preparations at the moment that is which Subjects shud I focus for the time being.
Apart frm this, do share the things wich u think will be important for me.
I have got gr8 expectations from u all.. Do help me out !
Thank you
Shivesh..
Dear Shivesh,
1) The changes, if any, will brought at the level of Mains exam only. The Prelims level was changes in 2011 and the same pattern will stay. Speculation is that optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers for all.
2) Since you plan to appear at the exam not before 2016 you need not worry about optional subjects already. You have ample time ahead of you to figure out the new pattern (in case pattern changes) and align yourself accordingly. In case the pattern does not change, you are free to pick up optionals you are strong in. And yes, you can keep Chemistry and History.
3) Initiate your preparation in (focus on) Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (GS and Essay).
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
UPSC is expected to throw more light on the ‘change in mains pattern’ aspect by end of this year.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Thank You Sir for such a worthy reply!
Another doubt which is haunting me is, are they going to change the Age limit as well?
Presently, candidates upto 30 years are allowed to appear for the examination, is there a possibility that the maximum age of eligibility would be lowered?
And if yes, to what age will it be lowered? (25/28 years)
Do tell me, what is the probabilty (according to you) in favour of such a change..
Dear Shivesh,
I would say that you should not worry about that.
As of now, the focus is only on revising the pattern of Mains exam and not bringing any changes in the number of attempts or maximum age eligibility.
Nothing can be said already on that front (age reduction/attempts) because UPSC has not discussed that in any of the recent discussions/reports/news. UPSC has only been discussing about bringing changes in the pattern of the Mains exam (replacing optional subjects by compulsory papers). We’ll all have to wait for UPSC to formally announce/notify everybody of its plans (maybe later this year).
On a general note, reducing age limit is a radical change for which UPSC should give sufficient heads up.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Respected Sir/ Madam,
I am a law final year student. Please help me. I am interested in appearing for the prestigious IAS exam. But i got no idea about its pattern and other such facts related to IAS exam. Can you please help by giving me the relevant information about it???
Dear Anshuman,
Download and go through the examination’s pattern and syllabus from here http://www.rauias.com/UPSC%20Civil%20Services%20Exam%20Syllabus.pdf.
Or, you could go to our website and read systematically through links ‘About IAS’ beginning from Scheme of Examination.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir
can they change minimum education qualification to 1st class at degree, 12th and 10th level
Does not seem likely. No.
For any radical change UPSC should give sufficient heads up.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear sir, do you see if there is any disadvantage in applying for UPSC exam at 31 yrs of age? I am a software engineer working in USA , planning to come back India to appear for UPSC. Can you please let me know if there is any disadvantage ?
No, there is no disadvantage.
If you are eligible to still appear for the exam (i.,e., if you belong to any of the reserved categories or fall under age exemption) then go for it!!!
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
hello sir,
i have just passed my 12th.
i aspire to become an IAS officer.
i want to start early i e in the first year of BTECH itself.
please suggest me what should i do next and how should me my path on the preparation of UPSC!
Dear Aditya,
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
Thereafter, once you get in 3rd year college, contact us again to understand the targeted strategy and methodology to be followed then.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,mam, i took the coaching from rau ias for gs and pub admn in 2010. I am 26 years old n belong to reserve category. I qualified for mains in 2010 wid psycho and pub ad much due to manoj sharma sir’s teaching. But was unable to clear mains due to scaling which upsc did in psycho and i got low marks in psycho.
Then i decided to leave psychology and took sociology. As the decision came late after prelims result of 2011, I have not cleared mains this time.
Still worse, the upsc has now thought of changing the pattern.
My current optionals are pub ad and sociology.
Please advise me how to handle this misfortune/errors from my side.
I think socio and pub ad will definitely have relevance in new syllabus as mentioned by u in yr replies at this blog.
Dear Prateek,
What, exactly how and when the Mains pattern will change is unclear. It could change in 2013 or later. UPSC is expected to announce the changes by or after September 2012.
However, first thing first, the impact of change will be felt by everyone equally. Thus, you (or for that matter anyone else) will not be at any disadvantageous position vis a vis other aspirants.
In your case, your optional subjects (Pub Ad and Sociology) are such which should remain relevant even in the revised pattern. That could actually be advantageous for you.
We will update more on this as soon as anything becomes publicly available.
Take care,
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
Respected Sir,
It would be very kind of you if you could suggest me the ways and means to prepare for CSAT. And as i’m doing my final year of B.A. History, my choice of optional’s are History and Public Admn. Whether it is advisable to go with it if any changes are made by the Committee in mains.
Waiting for Your Kind Reply.
Thanking You
L.KARTHIKEYAN
Dear Karthikeyan,
It is not possible to describe all the ways and means (strategy) to prepare for Civil Services Exam. In brief,
One needs to keep in mind the basic fact that if the goal is to reach the highest level of achievement, then one must have not only ample patience for details, but should be able to keep the big picture regarding any theme in one’s mind at the time of study. Thus the preparation strategy is to follow a mix of both micro and macro level approaches. The first step in this direction is the understanding of the syllabus. One must look at the syllabus closely and in detail. After that, one should analyze the past years’ question papers that indicate the important areas, as well as, the real scope of the syllabus. Then comes the next step of apportioning of time depending on the importance and length of each area.
Prepare a time schedule which helps you cover the syllabus and keep you on track. You will have to be consistent and devote about six hours of quality time on a daily basis in the beginning. Your preparation must peak in the final year before your Civil Services Exam where in you must devote at least eight to ten hours of quality time on a daily basis. It is emphasized that more than quantity, quality of time must be given utmost importance.
The next step would cover the selection of right books and an efficient method to study them. The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read N.C.E.R.T. books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
Thereafter, one must refer to a study material which is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. One should look for a study material which is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Material should be comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam.
Vastness of the syllabus (required to be covered) is one of the main challenges in Civil Services Exam. I agree that it is difficult to devise a plan that will help you to cover the entire syllabus. My first advise will be that you follow an integrated approach towards covering the syllabi of the General Studies (Mains), Essay paper (Mains) and General Studies (Prelims). Go through the portions of GS (Mains and Prelims) which overlap with each other descriptively and remember points which are important from Prelims perspective objectively.
Alongside, you must devote time reading 1 newspaper (The Hindu/TOI) and 1 journal regularly (Frontline/Pratiyogita Darpan) regularly and analytically. Make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view). [GS questions are becoming more practical in nature and are being increasingly based on knowledge of current affairs and general awareness (which can only be acquired from voracious reading of newspapers and magazines). Such questions may require application of more than one concept/fact. Aspirants should develop an application based approach to do well in General Studies paper.]
Optional subjects
What, exactly how and when the Mains pattern will change is unclear. UPSC is expected to announce the changes by or after September 2012. Till then, I suggest, you keep your focus on (start your preparation in) Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (General Studies and Essay writing) and Public Administration.
Subjects like Public Ad, History, Geography, Political Science, Sociology, Economics , etc should remain relevant even in the changed pattern.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Thank You So much for your kind reply, advice and suggestions for the preparation Sir.
Thanking You
L.Karthikeyan
Hello sir,
I have done my b.tech. this year and now going to appear in CSE-2013. I am starting my preparation joining coaching for GS (pre and mains) with one optional (pub ad) from june-12. Is it right decision ?
Yes Yagya,
If you are targeting 2013, then it is time you started with serious preparation.
1st session: Prepare yourself (take classroom guidance) in GS + 1st optional
2nd session: Prepare yourself (take classroom guidance) in 2nd Optional + continue to self study in GS
By the time the 2nd session gets over by March 2013, you should have established hold on GS (M) and GS (P). Thereafter, in April and May 2013, your target should be to solely focus on and master the Prelims syllabus of GS and Aptitude. In this time duration, (i) work on mastering your strong areas (ii) take a lot of full length tests (iii) analyze your weak areas and work towards strengthening them, (iv) revise all the current affairs important from Prelims examination’s perspective.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Respected Sir,
i am doing my graduation as an external student.i want to know that after my graduation,Am I eligible for upsc exam(by compliting my graduation as an external student)?
Dear Aspirant,
I do not exactly understand what you mean by an external student.
UPSC makes no differentiation in regular and correspondence/distance learning programs. Essentially, you should have a recognized (by UGC) graduation degree (there is no marks criteria either) to be eligible to appear in Civil Services Exam.
For more on Eligibility Criteria – click here
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir
in 2013 which type of questions will be asked
i) written
ii) objective
tell me please
Dear Praveen,
Preliminary Exam has objective type papers
Mains Exam has descriptive type papers.
The present structure will remain even in 2013.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
I have done my MPharm and want to start the preparation for civil services. Sir is the new pattern for the mains exam 2013 will be Objective type ?
Dear Swapnil,
The new/proposed pattern (as of now UPSC has not indicated any change in 2013) at the Mains level will be descriptive type (not objective).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir ,
I have completed my first year b.tech . I m a civil service aspirant. But I don’t know how to begin my preparation or where to begin .. So would give your valuable suggestions how to begin ..I have ample of time and I wanted to start the preparation at this stage itself . So could you please guide me ??
Thanking you .
Dear Jeevan,
1) Are you aware of the pattern of this exam? If not, start with understanding the pattern and the syllabus of the of the exam. Read – http://www.rauias.com/planofexam.php. Or you could download Civil Services Exam’s syllabus from here.
Stage 1) Preliminary Exam has 2 compulsory papers : (i) General Studies (ii) Aptitude
Stage 2) Mains Exam has 2 compulsory papers and 2 optional subjects (along with 2 qualifying language papers)
Compulsory papers :
(i) General Studies – 2 papers x 300 marks each = 600 marks
(ii) Essay – 1 x 200 = 200
Optional subjects (pick any two from a list of 26 optional subjects)
(i) Optional 1 – 2 papers x 300 marks each = 600 marks
(ii) Optional 2 – 2 papers x 300 marks each = 600 marks
2) For help on selecting optional subjects please go through our blog and related Q&As on ‘optional subject selections in mains exam‘
3) If you plan to appear in 2013 exam it is time you started with formal and targeted preparation.
You can begin preparation in:
(a) Prelims (General St. & Aptitude) and Mains (General St. & essay)
(b) One optional subject
4) The preparation strategy is to follow a mix of both micro and macro level approaches. The first step in this direction is the understanding of the pattern and syllabus. One must look at the syllabus closely and in detail. After that, one should analyze the past years’ question papers that indicate the important areas, as well as, the real scope of the syllabus.
I suggest that you start preparation in Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (General Studies and Essay writing). Alongside, make up your mind about optional subjects which you feel will be strategically relevant and good for you.
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• Newspaper (The Hindu) and Magazines (Frontline, Pratiyogita Darpan)
5) Our new batch is starting from 1st June 2012. You can view batch details here
For further details please feel free to contact our counselors personally or at any of our contact numbers.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Respected Sir,
It would be very kind of you if you could suggest me the ways and means to prepare for CSAT. And as i’m doing my final year of B.A. History, my choice of optional’s are History and Public Admn. Whether it is advisable to go with it if any changes are made by the Committee in mains.
Waiting for Your Kind Reply.
Thanking You
L.KARTHIKEYAN
Respected Sir,
I am writing from Dubai, i am writing this letter for my fiancee as she want to study for IAS ansd i want to knw the way how to study and how to get it the procedure and all the needy things, as she is a brilliant one and iam just motivating her as if i cant do that let she does, so please let me knw sir is there any option to study by postal or distant
Dear Babu,
1) Is she aware of the pattern of this exam? If not, ask her to start with understanding the pattern and the syllabus of the of the exam. Read – http://www.rauias.com/planofexam.php Or you could download Civil Services Exam’s syllabus from here.
Stage 1) Preliminary Exam has 2 compulsory papers : (i) General Studies (ii) Aptitude
Stage 2) Mains Exam has 2 compulsory papers and 2 optional subjects (along with 2 qualifying language papers)
Compulsory papers :
(i) General Studies – 2 papers x 300 marks each = 600 marks
(ii) Essay – 1 x 200 = 200
Optional subjects (pick any two from a list of 26 optional subjects)
(i) Optional 1 – 2 papers x 300 marks each = 600 marks
(ii) Optional 2 – 2 papers x 300 marks each = 600 marks
2) For help on selecting optional subjects please go through our blog and related Q&As on ‘optional subject selections in mains exam‘
3) If she plans to appear in 2013 exam it is time she started with formal and targeted preparation.
You can begin preparation in:
(a) Prelims (General St. & Aptitude) and Mains (General St. & essay)
(b) One optional subject
4) The preparation strategy is to follow a mix of both micro and macro level approaches. The first step in this direction is the understanding of the pattern and syllabus. One must look at the syllabus closely and in detail. After that, one should analyze the past years’ question papers that indicate the important areas, as well as, the real scope of the syllabus.
I suggest that you start preparation in Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (General Studies and Essay writing). Alongside, make up your mind about optional subjects which you feel will be strategically relevant and good for you.
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• Newspaper (The Hindu) and Magazines (Frontline, Pratiyogita Darpan)
5) If a student is consistent and is able to devote in six hours of valuable (quality) time on a daily basis consistently over one year it is normally considered good enough for the purpose.
6) You can purchase our study material and self study. However, we do not post study material outside India. We can post it to any of your relative’s local address in India and you can ask them to post the study material to you in Dubai. All the details of our study material are available – http://www.rauias.com/postalguidance.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear sir,
I am planning to appear for CSE ’13 my first attempt. I hav done biotechnology and MBA and shortlisted Sociology and Pub Admn as optional subjects.I am joining as Asst Commandant in CISF somewere in the month of Sep or Oct 2012 so classroom training is ruled out. I request your kindself to help me to plan a strategy to prepare. what is the procedure to get your study materials. Waiting for your timely reply.
with regards
RB
Dear Raaj,
1) Public Ad and sociology are both good optional subjects. We provide study material in both these subjects. Detailed information (fee, postage, procedure to get study material) about our study material is available at http://www.rauias.com/postalguidance.php.
2) Basic Guidelines for study:
One needs to keep in mind the basic fact that if the goal is to reach the highest level of achievement, then one must have not only ample patience for details, but should be able to keep the big picture regarding any theme in one’s mind at the time of study. Thus the preparation strategy is to follow a mix of both micro and macro level approaches. The first step in this direction is the understanding of the syllabus. One must look at the syllabus closely and in detail. After that, one should analyze the past years’ question papers that indicate the important areas, as well as, the real scope of the syllabus.
Then comes the next step of apportioning of time depending on the importance and length of each area. Prepare a time schedule which helps you cover the syllabus and keep you on track. You will have to be consistent and devote about six hours of quality time on a daily basis in the beginning. Your preparation must peak in the final year before your Civil Services Exam where in you must devote at least eight to ten hours of quality time on a daily basis. It is emphasized that more than quantity, quality of time must be given utmost importance.
The next step would cover the selection of right books and an efficient method to study them. The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read N.C.E.R.T. books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
Thereafter, one must refer to a study material which is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. One should look for a study material which is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Material should be comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam.
Vastness of the syllabus (required to be covered) is one of the main challenges in Civil Services Exam. I agree that it is difficult to devise a plan that will help you to cover the entire syllabus. My first advise will be that you follow an integrated approach towards covering the syllabi of the General Studies (Mains), Essay paper (Mains) and General Studies (Prelims). Go through the portions of GS (Mains and Prelims) which overlap with each other descriptively and remember points which are important from Prelims perspective objectively.
Alongside, you must devote time reading 1 newspaper (The Hindu) and 1 journal regularly (Frontline/Pratiyogita Darpan) regularly and analytically. Make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view). [GS questions are becoming more practical in nature and are being increasingly based on knowledge of current affairs and general awareness (which can only be acquired from voracious reading of newspapers and magazines). Such questions may require application of more than one concept/fact. Aspirants should develop an application based approach to do well in General Studies paper.]
Regards,
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
Though I’d applied for CSAT prelims 2012 which was just over on may 20th,I didn’t appear for the exam since I had to prepare for my PG exams and also I was not so confident of clearing it this time.I was intending to spend some months entirely after PG for civil services exam 2013 , since I’ve again got 4 chances .But recently I heard from some sources and I greatly fear that UPSC is going to fix the upper age limit at 26 from 2013 onwards.As of August 1st 2013 ,my age will be already 27,which means I’ll no more be eligible for writing civil services exam.Sir,are my apprehensions coming true?Is there such a move by UPSC to fix the upper age limit at 26 for general category?In that case I feel I commited a big blunder by dropping the exam this time.Sir,Can u plz clarify on this worrisome matter?
Dear John,
I would say that you should not worry about that.
As of now, the focus is only on revising the pattern of Mains exam and not bringing any changes in the number of attempts or maximum age eligibility.
Nothing can be said already on that front (age reduction/attempts) because UPSC has not discussed that in any of the recent discussions/reports/news. UPSC has only been discussing about bringing changes in the pattern of the Mains exam (replacing optional subjects by compulsory papers). We’ll all have to wait for UPSC to formally announce/notify everybody of its plans (maybe later this year).
On a general note, reducing age limit is a radical change for which UPSC should give sufficient heads up.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
have any change in civil service age limit 2013 ?. my DOB is 22/05/1983(general). Have any chance to appear ?
Dear Praveena,
According to your DOB, you will complete 30 years of age as on 22/May/2013 (which is before 1st August 2013). You will not be eligible for Civil Services exam 2013.
For more on Eligibility Criteria – click here
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear Sir,
Thanks for giving wonderful suggestions and information about the change in the pattern of examination.
I am planning to avail postal coaching for socialogy subject. so is there ‘online mode of transfer of money’ to get the materials?? and also can i get previous years solved questions papers for General studies Mains?
Expecting your Valualbe response.
Thanks in Advance,
Shantha
Dear Shanthakumari,
1) No, there is no online mode of making payment. You will have to prepare a demand draft of Rs 3,800 (in favor of Rau’s IAS Study Circle payable ay New Delhi) and send it to us along with duly completed study material application form.
For more details of study material – click http://www.rauias.com/postalguidance.php
2) Previous years question papers (last 10 years) are part of the study material. We do not sell them separately. So, in case you had purchased study material in GS (Mains) then you would have automatically got previous years question papers in it. However, you can very easily find last 10 years question papers in GS and optional subjects from any book shop that sells books for competitive examinations.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hello Sir,
I am preparing for 2014 CSE. Observing the intimation given by UPSC, I think that core subjects like PA, Socio, Geo etc. will persist.
So it sounds logical to go ahead with PA and Geography/Sociology. What is your stand Sir?
I agree with you Dhruv.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hello
I am planning to appear in 2014.I wanted to take physics (I am an Engineering student) and geography as my optional subjects.But according to the news about change in the pattern of mains Physics will not be of any use.I don’t want to waste my time preparing for the subject which might not remain in the list of optional subjects in future.So, shall I opt for pub ad as my second optional?
Yes Ananya,
Study in such subjects which have relevance in General Studies and which you think comprise of subject knowledge which is necessary for a civil servant to have.
Public Administration is a better choice.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hello Sir,
Is it so that only candidates who have been toppers throughout their entire academics are selected?
Because looking at the profiles of the selected ones I have not seen any candidate with average academics making out through UPSC as they are quarantined in the interviews.
Any example Sir?
Dear Dhaval,
1) I do not know your source of information.
How did you find out the academic history/record of successful aspirants? Because their is no weightage that they carry in the merit list.
See, if you clear both the Preliminary and Main rounds of Civil Services Examination, then even before entering the interview hall you have proved to the board that you have what it takes to crack the toughest competitive examination in the nation. The way you handle your interview will show the board your true potential (and not your previous marks).
2) UPSC does not put any restriction on students who do not have a good academic record. It is for the same reason that UPSC allows all graduates (without any marks criteria) to appear in Civil Services Examination. Also, UPSC allows students who cleared their 12th from open school and who possess graduation degree to apply for the exam. Average students crack this exam all the time. All that you require to do well in this exam is dedication and perseverance. Have patience and be consistent with studies. The exam is not tough just that the syllabus is vast.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hi,
Will UPSC going to make mains paper as a Mulitiple option like MPSC did it last year?
Dear Ashish,
The papers in the mains examination should remain descriptive type in nature. There is no proposal to make them objective type.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir..
if the pattern for ias mains get changed then is it necessary that it will also get changed for up pcs exam.?
1st of all thanx alot for ur prompt n kind replies sir …
i m planning to give my CSE in 2013 ..
I ve already given it twice wit 1 appearance in mains in 2011…
dis yr i dint give the prelims cos of my PG stuff …
now hearing about d possible changes in mains from 2013, i cannot come to a conclusion from where should i start …. whether should i start preparing 4r prelims 2013 (or) assuming there wont b any change, should i start preparing for my mains sub ?? my optionals are Pub Ad n Geography …..
can u kindly enlighten me on dis …
Dear Naren,
What and exactly how the Mains pattern will change in 2013 is unclear. The speculation is that all optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers (which might comprise subject knowledge from General Studies domain). However, nothing can be said with certainty unless UPSC formally notifies about the changes and year of implementation of changes.
UPSC is expected to announce the changes by or after September 2012. Till then, I suggest, you keep your focus on Prelims (GS and Aptitude) and Mains (General Studies and Essay writing). Alongside, you can also revise Public Administration and Geography as the knowledge (maybe partially and not completely) in these subjects will be tested in some format or the other in the new pattern as well.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear sir,
I’ve decided to take my optionals as pub ad and history.i have a keen interest in history from school level.But as the pattern might get changed will history prove futile for me?
I’m about to start preparation in a week.what other optionals can you advice for me to choose?
Awaiting for your response,
Regards,
Aravind
Repsected Sir
final year student eligible for upsc exam ?
Yes, provided you complete 21 years of age by 1st August in the year in which appearing for the exam.
Regards,
Dear Sir,
My daughter completes her BE (ECE) this academic year and wishes to pursue her
studies in Law (B.L.Hons – 3Year Course Dr.Ambedkar Law University Chennai) and simultaneously wishes to prepare for IAS. Your answers to various queries are really useful to me as novice. Thanking you Sir.
Leenus
Advocate
Dindigul
Thanks.
Hello Sir,
What role does academic excellence plays irrespective of the area of study in IAS/IPS selection after one reaches the interview level?
Hello Sir,
I am Praveena, now i am doing Mba, but i am really interested in IAS, Sir If Possible Pls Send me Clear Information About Ias.
Dear Praveena,
Read – http://www.rauias.com/planofexam.php or you could download Civil Services Exam’s syllabus from http://www.rauias.com/iassyllabus.php.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hello sir,
I have just completed my second year of engg. I m planning to give my CSE in 2014. So, when should I start taking coaching; in present session or next year summer session?
And how should I start my preparation? I have started in a random fashion but I don’t think this is gonna help me in any way. So plssss guide me regarding the same.
Dear Mayank,
You can start with targeted preparation/methodology from later this year (2012) or certainly from June next year (2013).
In the meantime, you can commence with the following:
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read N.C.E.R.T. books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
Alongside, you must devote time reading 1 newspaper (The Hindu/TOI) and 1 journal regularly (Frontline/Pratiyogita Darpan) regularly and analytically. Make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view).
Thereafter, when you get in later 2nd year college, you should start with a targeted approach towards the exam.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Thanking you sir.
Your suggestions will certainly be helpful to me.
Sir,
i have completed my engineering this year and planning to attempt civil services exam in 2013. i have decided on pubad and history as my optional subjects.hearing about the future changes in pattern for MAINS exam and studying your previous responses to the queries, can u suggest me if i can take HISTORY as an optional subject. also enlighten me about the constraints in taking HISTORY as an optional subject. what challenges could i face if i take HISTORY as an optional. also what is the advantage in taking PUBAD and HISTORY as optional subjects. are they scoring?
awaiting your response,
MANIDEEP
Dear Manideep,
As of now (the present pattern) both Pub Ad and History are successful optionals in Civil Services Exam. They both comprise of themes which overlap with the syllabus of general studies which lends them an advantage over many other optionals available. Now, both Pub Ad and History (the modern history portion/Indian National movement) comprise of such themes/knowledge which is relevant and essential to be known by all aspirants which is why it is speculated that these optionals will be safe in the event optional subjects are replaced by compulsory papers.
While Pub Ad has a short syllabus, History has vast syllabus. Also, History will require a lot of mugging up.
You should begin preparation in General Studies (Prelims cum Mains) and Public Administration. Pick up the 2nd optional once you have completed Pub Ad.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
SIR, i decided to appear for 2014 pt.also i have get familiar with gs:1,2(pt and mains)now.so Whether i join coachig now or get study material? as its seem to be changes in mains patttern of exam? please reply, as your batches are started.
sir i m going to prepare for ias 2013… i want to know what will l be changes in ias 2013 main exam.. as all expected optional paper will be replaced by compulsory paper ….have you any idea about the number of paper & their types? … which subjects do i have to read for it..can you please tell me about reference books & auther’s name & current event magzines & news papers in hindi as i am from hindi medium & tell me about physical requirement for IPS…
Dear Anil,
All of us we will have to wait for UPSC to get further details than those contained in this article. UPSC is expected to give more directions in this area by October 2012.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir i want to know is there will b any change in age limit & no. of attemp from 2013..
Dear Dev,
I would say that you should not worry about that.
As of now, the focus is only on revising the pattern of Mains exam and not bringing any changes in the number of attempts or maximum age eligibility.
Nothing can be said already on that front (age reduction/attempts) because UPSC has not discussed that in any of the recent discussions/reports/news. UPSC has only been discussing about bringing changes in the pattern of the Mains exam (replacing optional subjects by compulsory papers). We’ll all have to wait for UPSC to formally announce/notify everybody of its plans (maybe later this year).
On a general note, reducing age limit is a radical change for which UPSC should give sufficient heads up.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Respected sir ,
I am b.tech cse final year student.plz suggest me the subjects for the civil-preliminaries and the civil mains.Along with the books to be followed to get qualified….
Dear Mahesh,
1) There are no optional subjects at the Preliminary stage anymore. I suggest that you first of all read about the new pattern of exam from – http://www.rauias.com/planofexam.php or you could download Civil Services Exam’s syllabus from here.
Stage 1) Preliminary Exam has 2 compulsory papers : (i) General Studies (ii) Aptitude
Stage 2) Mains Exam has 2 compulsory papers and 2 optional subjects (along with 2 qualifying language papers)
Compulsory papers :
(i) General Studies – 2 papers x 300 marks each = 600 marks
(ii) Essay – 1 x 200 = 200
Optional subjects (pick any two from a list of 26 optional subjects)
(i) Optional 1 – 2 papers x 300 marks each = 600 marks
(ii) Optional 2 – 2 papers x 300 marks each = 600 marks
2) For help on selecting optional subjects in the Mains Examination please read our blog and related Q&As on ‘Optional Subject Selection‘.
3) Details of our Study material are available at – http://www.rauias.com/postalguidance.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,As everyone is already asking for changes in exam pattern for 2013.I m also Confused. if UPSC will remove the optionals subjects from Main Exam then why Should we prepare for Optionals.
sir i am 2nd year student of b.tec and i am started preparing for the ias exams but i dont know the pattern of attempting the questions in the mains exam and i decided to take geography and pubed as my optional exam so plz tell me the pattern of attempting the que in these exams and the way of smart preparation to succed PLZ SIR GIVE ME REPLY!!!
Sir,
i have just completed my btech 2nd year and i am looking forward to take my first shot in 2014. Is it the right plan to start preparing for gs prelims along with geography and economics ncert. And should i read the new editions or the older ones. And what all the ways that u would suggest to improve rc skills..?
Dear Prashant,
1) Start going through NCERT books in:
Geography,
History,
Civics,
Economics (preferably latest edition)
2) Prepare for General Studies Mains and Prelims simultaneously. Do not break them up since the syllabus is common in majority of the places.
3) Read newspaper (The Hindu) regularly and analytically. That will not only help you with general awareness but also improve your RC skills.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
3)
Good morning sir,
Sir,
I purchased the printed materials of publicadministration and general studies of main examination which is based on 2009 syllabus from your coaching centre.
As the syllabus of public administration and general studies of main examination is not changed, Should I buy the
whole material again for getting the updated material?
OR Can I get only the revised and updated portions of the material from your coaching institute?
Are there any changes in the part of history,geography,polity economics, India and world, international
institutions,statistics and science & technology of general studies of main examination ,when comparing to the
2009 syllabus based material ?
If there is any, What will be the charge for getting the updated printed material of public administration and
general studies of main examination?
I hope quick response to this mail
by,
kishore
Dear Kishore,
The subject knowledge will be the same.
However, there are certain portions (related to general awareness, science and technology, environmental ecology, etc) which are revised every year. These are contained in our general awareness book that is prepared fresh every year and released a month before the examination.
You may purchase that from the institute.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
WILL THE STUDY OF POLITY,ECONOMY,GEOGRAPHY AND HISTORY OF G.S OF THE MAIN EXAMINATION BE ENOUGH TO
COVER THE ENTIRE PORTIONS OF POLITY,ECONOMY,GEOGRAPHY AND HISTORY OF PRELIMS?
IS THE STUDY OF N.C.ER.T BOOKS NECESSARY?, IF THE SPECIAL EDITION OF COMPETITIVE MAGAZINES ON POLITY,ECONOMY,GEOGRAPHY AND HISTORY ARE DEPENDED,
thanx alot sir 4r ur guidance
dear sir,
I have passed 12 with 80% this year with pcm. i am totally confused about choosing b/w B.SC OR B.TECH ???? Being from ill-financed family( my father had been passed away) i have only one choice i.e B.tech for secure future. but i am aspire to be an IAS officer. and i am very comfortable with B.SC and then for ias . But due to ill-financed condition , i always think the bad aspects- if i failed in upsc, then there will be no future with B.sc. and also recently news heared that optional will removed. Will it be secure to go with B.sc??? and will physics or chemistry or math be the compulsory subject if i will go wid B.sc for mains?? Now my DOB is 13/10/1996. So plz give me suggestion about choosing b/w b.tech or B.sc ???? there is no one in my family who can give me suggestion
plz sir reply me fast, i need your help !!!!
hoping for best suggestion !!!!!
Dear Mohit,
Neither B.Sc nor B.Tech is going to help directly in Civil Services. In case the pattern changes and all optional subjects are replaced by compulsory parers then only those subjects will be retained which are relevant to be studied to get into services. Read the article again – http://www.rausias.com/blog/?p=382. (Physics, Chemistry, Biology will be asked uptill 10th level only)
This does not mean that you will not be able to get into civil services after a B.Tech or a B.Sc. After the pattern changes, every aspirant, be a B.Sc, B.Tech, B.Comm, BBS. BA, etc will have to study the same syllabus that will be defined by UPSC.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Please suggest books for Public Admin ad geography apart from Raus Study materials
Hello Sir,
I have compeleted my BTech in 2011 & now working in a MNC as Software Engineer.
I am very much interested in IAS but confused about how to start with & choosing the optional papers for mains. I am from ComputerScience& Engg. stream, I don’t like to mugup the papers, i believe 1st to understand & then learn but the subjects like History, geography, Public Ad for optional paper confuses me a lot, whether should i make it as my optioanl or not.
Can I score better if i would take optional subjects like mathematics, Psychology, Sociology.
Kindly suggest.
Thanks
Dear Rojalin,
Pick any two out of these following subjects on the basis of your interest (I have mentioned these subjects on the basis of their conceptual nature, success rate, relevance with General Studies syllabus and in case the Mains pattern changes in years to come and ease of learning for science graduates):
Public Administration/Political Science, Geography, Sociology.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hi,
i had appeared for csat 2012 exams . The mail id which i had given during the registration is likely to change. Wl it effect me in near future ( on selection in preliminary ) . Will i get a chance to change it while filling the form for main exam ? please let me know. I am really tensed about it
sir, I live in Nagpur(Maharashtra), here i couldnot find any suitable help of direction in form of coaching to prepare for upsc. I just wanted to know the direction in which i should start up… the basic books and materials..like NCERT from which level…the basic books of geo, history, eco, polity for GK and GS…. also sir will the study material from rau’s be enough to prepare for…
If yes, then what are the directions to study that material…
Dear Monika,
Guidelines for self study
One needs to keep in mind the basic fact that if the goal is to reach the highest level of achievement, then one must have not only ample patience for details, but should be able to keep the big picture regarding any theme in one’s mind at the time of study. Thus the preparation strategy is to follow a mix of both micro and macro level approaches. The first step in this direction is the understanding of the syllabus. One must look at the syllabus closely and in detail. After that, one should analyze the past years’ question papers that indicate the important areas, as well as, the real scope of the syllabus. Then comes the next step of apportioning of time depending on the importance and length of each area.
Prepare a time schedule which helps you cover the syllabus and keep you on track. You will have to be consistent and devote about six hours of quality time on a daily basis in the beginning. Your preparation must peak in the final year before your Civil Services Exam where in you must devote at least eight to ten hours of quality time on a daily basis. It is emphasized that more than quantity, quality of time must be given utmost importance.
The next step would cover the selection of right books and an efficient method to study them. The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read N.C.E.R.T. books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
Thereafter, one must refer to a study material which is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. One should look for a study material which is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Material should be comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam.
Vastness of the syllabus (required to be covered) is one of the main challenges in Civil Services Exam. I agree that it is difficult to devise a plan that will help you to cover the entire syllabus. My first advise will be that you follow an integrated approach towards covering the syllabi of the General Studies (Mains), Essay paper (Mains) and General Studies (Prelims). Go through the portions of GS (Mains and Prelims) which overlap with each other descriptively and remember points which are important from Prelims perspective objectively.
Alongside, you must devote time reading 1 newspaper (The Hindu/TOI) and 1 journal regularly (Frontline/Pratiyogita Darpan) regularly and analytically. [GS questions are becoming more practical in nature and are being increasingly based on knowledge of current affairs and general awareness (which can only be acquired from voracious reading of newspapers and magazines). Such questions may require application of more than one concept/fact. Aspirants should develop an application based approach to do well in General Studies paper.]
You must make a regular habit of writing at least one page on current and contemporary events, issues and affairs every day, of what you observe from newspapers/news, magazine, etc. The events of National and International importance which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
Suppose if UPSC changes the Civil Services pattern in october 2012 stating the reasons(as in your blog) that it is of no use to judge the students for the information which they have acquired at the last moment and for the information which they have already been tested at the university level.Now, the question arises that same argument is also valid for Indian Forest Services exam conducted by UPSC.In this exam also, there are optional papers.So, you kindly tell me that if UPSC removes the optional paper from Civil Services, then it will also remove them from Indian Forest Services.
Dear Anuj,
That cannot be said already. As of now, UPSC is discussing and evaluating the format and pattern of only Civil Services Examination which is a completely different examination from Indian Forest Services.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Is there any problem in studying N C E R T books along with G S(Mains &prelims)?
OR Should I study them before studying the G S (Mains &prelims)?
How many magazines should be read for G S (Mains &prelims)?
thank you very much.GOD MAY strengthen your hands to clear the doubts of civil service aspirant&all the best for your all ventures.
hi
i have to appear for the civil service exams in 2014.So sir can you suggest me should i study GS first or Optionals as there is a speculation that the pattern might change.
thanks
Dear Himanshu,
Start your preparation in the compulsory papers, both the papers of Preliminary and General Studies and Essay of the Mains. Since you will appear only in 2014 you have ample time for optional subjects. Also, after studying General Studies you will be in a much better position to pick up right optional subjects for yourself (when required).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,
iam planning for civils 2013 , iam 28 i belong to BC community but not come under creamy layer as our family income is above 7 lakhs . can i avail 3yrs relaxation of age? above 30? or nor applicable because of creamy layer provision pls clarify
thanks in advance,
Dear Vins,
As per the present provision, if your household income exceeds 4.5 lakhs then you are considered to fall in the creamy layer and therefore considered as a general category aspirant.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear Vins,
Please also check:
1) ncbc.nic.in (creamy layer section), and
2) http://obcreservation.net/ver2/faq-mainmenu-25/117-obc-creamy-layer-clarification.html
Dear Sir/Mam,
If Nivagekar committee gives report within stipulated 6 month timeframe (by june 2012)…..then upsc will study it and if approved send it to govt ….which would again study it and then give it’s approval (if at all)….Would all this leave enough time for upsc to introduce changes in mains 2013….or is it more likely to happen after 2013 ?
Anxiously waiting for your reply!
Dear Arjun,
Your assessment of the situation is right. Affairs like these are time consuming and therefore even we speculate that it could take more time for changes to get implemented. It is possible that the changes come into affect only in 2014 or 2015, however, still nothing can be said with certainty. Changes could very well be notified to everyone later this year and incorporated from 2013 itself. Be prepared for whatever is to come and pick up optional subjects wisely.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,right now i am pursuing my Geography Honors and will be in third year by July this year. I want to know when i should start taking coaching classes?
Thank-you!
Dear Kaurin,
You can start in your final year. A lot of students start their preparation in their later second year of college.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir, i have done my inters in humanity with economics n maths as major
n hv opted economics n pol sc in graduation so wil u plz tell me how to start the prepartaion as i wana prepare for upsc along with my graduation its my dream to clear the xam in 2016 . plz help me out hw much time shld i deduct fr general stdy ?
Dear Ashu,
Start your preparation in General Studies (Pre-cum-Mains together) for now. Do not worry about optional subjects because you are as it is studying them in college (you can keep Pol Sc and Eco as your optionals in case the pattern of the Mains exam does not change by the time you will become eligible to appear in the exam). The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear frnds,
I like to take Botany and Zoology as my optionals for mains, can u suggest your ideasand what do you think about success of this combinations??????
Plz help me frnds
Dear Praveen,
We do not coach in science subjects including the ones you have mentioned. Therefore, we would not be able to advise you on them.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,i m doing m.b.b.s right now,
and there are 2 more year for my graduation to get completed,
and i want to give upsc,
so which preparation shold i do now for upsc?
Dear Ravi,
To start with now,
1) Start reading newspapers regularly and analytically (the events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
a. The Hindu b. The Times of India
2) Start reading magazines regularly and analytically
a. Frontline
b. Pratiyogita Darpan
3) You can start going through the following NCERT books: (The basic concepts of the different segments of General Studies are derived from the NCERT books, as mentioned below)
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
You can start taking professional help/coaching atleast from one year before your target year of giving the exam.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
I have completed my B.Tech in 2009 and from the last two years i a m working in IT company . And now i am aspire to be an IAS but after working for continous hrs it is very hard to focus on IAS study . I am trying my best to get focussed but not able to make a grip. So kindly suggest some good tips how to focus and do a quality study .last i can’t leave my current job as i am belong to poor financial back ground.
Looking for your suugestion!!!!
Thanks & Regards,
Sunil .
Dear Sunil,
1) General Plan for self study: First of all, there are no shortcuts involved in this exam. Civil Service Exam has a vast syllabus in both subject matter and general/current awareness. The only way to tackle with this vast syllabus is through dedication and perseverance.
One needs to keep in mind the basic fact that if the goal is to reach the highest level of achievement, then one must have not only ample patience for details, but should be able to keep the big picture regarding any theme in one’s mind at the time of study. Thus the preparation strategy is to follow a mix of both micro and macro level approaches.
The first step in this direction is the understanding of the syllabus. One must look at the syllabus closely and in detail. After that, one should analyze the past years’ question papers that indicate the important areas, as well as, the real scope of the syllabus. Then comes the next step of apportioning of time depending on the importance and length of each area.
Prepare a time schedule which helps you cover the syllabus and keep you on track. You will have to be consistent and devote about six hours of quality time on a daily basis in the beginning. Your preparation must peak in the final year before your Civil Services Exam where in you must devote at least eight to ten hours of quality time on a daily basis. It is emphasized that more than quantity, quality of time must be given utmost importance.
The next step would cover the selection of right books and an efficient method to study them. The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read N.C.E.R.T. books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
Thereafter, one must refer to a study material which is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. One should look for a study material which is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Material should be comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam.
Vastness of the syllabus (required to be covered) is one of the main challenges in Civil Services Exam. I agree that it is difficult to devise a plan that will help you to cover the entire syllabus. My first advise will be that you follow an integrated approach towards covering the syllabi of the General Studies (Mains), Essay paper (Mains) and General Studies (Prelims). Go through the portions of GS (Mains and Prelims) which overlap with each other descriptively and remember points which are important from Prelims perspective objectively.
Alongside, you must devote time reading 1 newspaper (The Hindu) and 1 journal regularly (Frontline/Pratiyogita Darpan) regularly and analytically. [GS questions are becoming more practical in nature and are being increasingly based on knowledge of current affairs and general awareness (which can only be acquired from voracious reading of newspapers and magazines). Such questions may require application of more than one concept/fact. Aspirants should develop an application based approach to do well in General Studies paper.]
You must make a regular habit of writing at least one page on current and contemporary events, issues and affairs every day, of what you observe from newspapers/news, magazine, etc. The events of National and International importance which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view.
2) Initiate your preparation alongside job. No need to quit job already. Try and devote some number of hours on a daily basis in the beginning and about 8-10 hours daily over the weekends. Take a break or sabbatical from job once you have reached closer to the Prelims exam and need to devote about 10 hours on a daily basis. Basically, initiate your studies right now and do not worry about quitting job. Take a call about your job later.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear sir,
My age is 20 years and i have got a central govt job(group c).My final dream is to become an ias officer.Till now my preparation for ias is nill.I am a Hindi medium student.I want to ask following questions
1.what should be the starting strategy for me?
2.How to choose optional subjects?
3.IAS 2013 pattern base prapartion tips
I am giving My educational bio data
High School UP Board 86%(11th position in UP)
INTERMEDIATE UP Board 90%(1 in distt. Hardoi)
Dear Ajay,
1 & 3) Start your preparation in General Studies (Pre-cum-Mains together) for now. Do not study for General Studies of the Prelims and Mains separately. This is because the syllabus of General Studies of Preliminary and Mains stage is not different. Instead, the list of contents is more or less the same, only the pattern of questions asked is different. The Preliminary exam, which is objective type, requires careful scanning of option choices and arriving at the right answer choice (using the elimination technique) in the least possible time, whereas Mains exam requires you to write an analysis or a descriptive-essay type answer (based on the facts) for a question. Therefore, you must prepare General Studies of both Preliminary and Mains together in an integrated manner for a more effective study.
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
2) Read our blog on ‘how to select optionals’ and related Q&As from – http://www.rausias.com/blog/?p=69
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear sir,
Basically im a Urdu medium student upto post graduation, the new syllabus which is going to introduce soon how it will be benifited to me?
Sir,
I am from Kerala and wish to write civil service in 2014. I didnt yet started my preparation. I am totally confused. As i am in Kerala i cant join your institute. I have read about your postal guidance. Is it possible to crack the exam without joining any institute?? I am Btech in computer science and i need your suggestion.
Dear Anu,
Whether coaching or not is completely your decision. Yes, coaching certainly plays a vital role. It helps in providing the right orientation for the students and save valuable time in the process. They also provide information on such themes which are not easily accessible to the students. The most important role is the utility of “just in time” management and help the reorganisation of information hitherto gathered by the students (i.e. “just in case” collection of information). Also, it provides a learning and testing environment for the students which acts like a pace maker and keeps students working hard.
Not that you cannot succeed by self study alone. Essentially, even after coaching if a student does not self study then there is no way he/she can get success. Yes, certainly with no help, you’ll have to study by yourself, remain motivated, prepare a time table to keep yourself on track and test yourself periodically.
You can start your preparation with our study material. Our study material is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. It is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Our material is comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam. Also, a list of reference books (including NCERT books ranging from class 7th- 12th) will be provided with our study material in case you want to refer to more resources.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
i am pursuing my graduation in chemistry and i will complete my graduation in 2013. i want to appear in 2014 civil services exam so i joined chanakya ias academy for gs and one optional (pub ad) but i am not satisfied with them as there is no clases for gs pre paper 1 and 2. so i have decided to join your coaching centre next year but in chanakya i am taking classes for pub ad should i leave this optional as upsc has decided to remove optionals from mains.
Dear Swati,
Do not quit Public Administration batch. This is because, first of all it is not confirmed whether the optional subjects will be removed (and replaced by compulsory papers for all) in 2013 itself (it could also be in later years as well) and, secondly, even if the pattern changes, a lot of knowledge of Public Ad will still be relevant (and asked as part of the compulsory papers in Mains exam).
Good luck!
Rau’s IAS
Sir, I am a final year student of bsc biotechnology, and i want to become an IAS officer,the optionals i have decided for mains are public administration and geography. Can this comination be successful?
I want to join Rau’s academy,though the batch started on 1st june but i could not join as my extenals were going on, for the november batch when can we apply for personal guidance programme and till when can we give the fee for november batch as it is based on first come basis ?And i also want to know that the entire fee structure and for both the optional subjects and please refer for the accomodation for hostle also?
Dear Pooja,
1) Both Pub Ad and Geography are good subjects and opted by majority of students from science background.
2) Admission is based on first cum first served basis. Admission has started and it will be safe to take admission till end of September 2012. Classes will start from 23rd November 2012. Details of winter batch are available – http://www.rauias.com/november.php
3) Yes, accommodation facility is available. We have hostels and PGs both. A ballpark figure is Rs 8,500/month.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir i am completed my graduation recently as following post and the news of the hindu i am also little bit confuse to prepare optional please suggest me what can i do
Dear Vimal,
I suggest that you go through our blog and related Q&As to understand how to select optional subjects – http://www.rausias.com/blog/?p=69
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,i’m a graduate in civil enginnering.
i’ve opted civil engineering and geography as my optionals. do
you think its the right choice or should i go with any other combination……??????
Dear Manoj,
Geography is a good optional. It is logical, has good success rate and has syllabus overlap with the paper of General Studies and therefore it is better compared to non-relevant optionals available.
Usually, students complain about the difficulty level of science/engineering/economics subjects. Since you are a graduate in civil engineering I suggest that you solve its last 10 years question papers to figure your comfort level in it.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,
I am a btech student and have completed my 2nd yr….and will be completing my graduation by may 2014….. i wish to give in my first attempt in upsc in the same year, i have decided to take pub adm & sociology as my mains subjects….i have been reading the hindu and pratiyogita darpan as a part of my prepartion, but still i have not gained d desired confidence in myself …..could you suggest me a good author for sociology and what are your views on FADIA & FADIA as a book for pub adm…i wuld be obliged if u answer at the earliest
Dear Aalya,
Refer to Rau’s study material in conjunction with NCERT books, newspapers and magazines:
Our study material is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. It is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Our material is comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam. Also, a list of reference books (including NCERT books ranging from class 7th- 12th) will be provided with our study material in case you want to refer to more resources.
NCERT books:
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
List of Reference Books for Public Ad – http://www.civilserviceindia.com/subject/Public-Administration/suggested-reading.html
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Respected Sir,
I’ve just passed class 12th and look forward to do Engineering in MECHANICAL. I am totally confused. Please solve the following doubts:-
1. I am interested in MATHS and GEOGRAPHY for optionals. Are these choices correct?
2. Which is the most scoring subject? Should i choose that subject? I am interested in almost all the subjects.
3. I read the earlier posts and came to know how to prepare for IAS. Why is it necessary to read NCERT books? How will i remember all the things given in the NCERTS? Can you help me to prepare with this by your correspondence course?
Regards,
Saurabh
Dear Saurabh,
1 & 2) Do not worry about optional already. There may not be any optionals to choose from (only compulsory papers for all with a very well defined syllabus) by the time you become eligible for the Civil Services Exam. Read the article ‘Expected changes in IAS Mains Exam’ carefully again.
3) Yes, you can take our study material and go through it. Our study material is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. It is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Our material is comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam. Also, a list of reference books (including NCERT books ranging from class 7th- 12th) will be provided with our study material in case you want to refer to more resources.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
good morning sir,
I am the engineering aspirants from IT branch, i have doubt about the optional subjects,as i decided to take geography as first optional and the second one is anthropology.consequently, sir can u give me the brief idea about anthropology.
Dear Pooja,
Of late, civil services aspirants have started opting for Sociology than Anthropology. Understand why?
Now, first of all consider the definitions of Anthropology and Sociology:
# Anthropology – is a social science that is concerned with human culture as well as the (1) physical and (2) social characteristics that create that culture.
# Sociology – is a social science that studies the functionality of human society including origins, development, and organization (or in other words the social characteristics of human society/culture)
If you understand the definitions clearly, you will notice that Anthropology = (1) Physical characteristics of human culture and (2) Sociology
(i) What I am trying to arrive at is that Sociology is shorter in syllabus than Anthropology.
(ii) Helps in Essay paper (about 2-3 topics in the essay paper come from Sociology stream)
(iii) Will be more relevant in the event that the pattern of the Mains exam changes in 2013.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
Thank you so much for your valuable time ….I am 25 yr old an IT professional .
I have read your blog today for the first time and i feel i am at right place for any query regarding UPSC.
To be frank Yesterday night i have dicided to go for IAS as it was my childhood dream as well as for my parents .I have no idea how tough this exam is going to be , bcoz i have not prepare a single day until today.
My query:
I can hardly get 4 hrs a day for preparation plus satursay and sunday . After going through the self study which u have mentiond abpve I have decided to concentrate more on 2013 prelims and giving little attention to mains like GS , Essay …am i going in right direction ?
Dear Yashwant,
Do not study for General Studies of the Prelims and Mains separately. This is because:
(i) The syllabus of General Studies of Preliminary and Mains stage is not different. Instead, the list of contents is more or less the same, only the pattern of questions asked is different. The Preliminary exam, which is objective type, requires careful scanning of option choices and arriving at the right answer choice (using the elimination technique) in the least possible time, whereas Mains exam requires you to write an analysis or a descriptive-essay type answer (based on the facts) for a question. Therefore, you must prepare General Studies of both Preliminary and Mains together in an integrated manner for a more effective study.
(ii) Strategically, you should cover substantial portion of the Mains syllabus as well before Preliminary examination. Unless you do that, you would not have any time available after Prelims to cover the entire syllabus (of Mains) even once let alone any time for revision. You get an overall window of 4 months in between Prelims and Mains. You should ideally not leave a lot of things to be taken up afresh during this time and utilize it as much as you can for revision.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
hello sir,
at present i am doing LL.B 2nd year. I want to take LAWS & Pub Adm as main subject. is this combination of subjects are valid or not. Is study material for Law is easily available.
Dear Harpreet,
Yes it is valid. Yes study material in both are easily available.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear Sir,
Is there any possibility that the UPSC increases the number of attempts for General category candidates. I came across an article which wrote about how a “general” candidate, after exhausting all his attempts by 1978 got a new lease of life when UPSC brought in a radical change in the CSE 1978 when it introduced Prelims for the first time and he became eligible to appear in the exam till he attained 30 yrs of age. He ultimately qualified in 1981. With such a proposed radical change by 2013, if be, could there be a rarest possibility that UPSC may allow all those who have already exhausted their attempts.
Please reply
Quadir Rahman
Dear Quadir,
No. That does not seem to be a possibility. UPSC is only planning to change/revise the structure of papers asked in the Mains stage of the examination.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hello Rau Sir,
I am planning to appear for the UPSC Exam in 2013, I have started my study with Geography and Optional Subject for Main- Pub Ad.
I am Studying from Tata McGraw Hill-2012 Edition book.
Is this book sufficient for General Studies Prelim?
Please guide me on this, as i am seeing that lots of people are more concerned about NCERT Book.
Thanks in advance.
Regards,
Siddhartha
Dear Siddhartha,
My advise will be that you follow an integrated approach towards covering the syllabi of the General Studies (Mains), Essay paper (Mains) and General Studies (Prelims). Go through the portions of GS (Mains and Prelims) which overlap with each other descriptively and remember points which are important from Prelims perspective objectively.
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
Once you get familiar with the basic concepts of General Studies, have refreshed your memory with basic knowledge acquired in various disciplines of Social Studies and General Science (in school), it is time for you to adopt a targeted and structured approach towards the Civil Services Exam. Refer to study material which is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. Study material should be prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Thanks RAU’s Sir,
Please see the approach which i am following now,
1. NCERT Books (those mentioned above)
2. General Studies (IES and PSU-2013) edition.
The reason why i am using this book is, it has explained topic wise which helps in understanding.
For Example:
General Aspects of Geography (Class 6)
India: General Facts
Physical Geography of India (Class 6)
Drainage System of India
Climate of India and so on…
So when i finished, NCERT Geo -Class 6, i went through General Studies (IES and PSU-2013) edition which make me understand better.
Does this seems to be a good practice….and should i follow some different approach.
Really awaiting your reply.
Thanks & Regards
Siddhartha
Sir,I am working asgovernment school teacher and I am physicalyy handicap. I need to know till what age i can apply, what are the requirements to fall in this category, and number of aattempts i can take? Also, tell me is there any age relaxation and attempt relaxation for government employees?
With Regards,
Anu
Dear Anu,
No, there is no relaxation in age limit or number of attempts for government employees.However, there is age relaxation for physically handicapped.
Regarding Physically challenged candidates
Please read about Physical Disability (PH) directly from UPSC’s Exam notification. Go to upsc.gov.in >> Examination >> Notifications >> Archival >> Civil Services (Pre) Exam 2012 . Read this notification for full details on eligibility for PH candidates. Also, check about your eligibility for certain jobs (as described in the notification) directly with UPSC (you should only count on UPSC’s word for physical requirement and functional classification for Physically handicapped).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir/Madam,
I’m a 4th year B.E. Computer Science Engineering student, i have my 10th grade qualified as AISSE i.e. from this grounds as KendriyaVidyalaya_CBSE_NCERT.
I have been solving the prelims papers after my 12th, specifically, 2009-10-11-2012 papers without a bit preparation. I only managed to score 65.60% in my 10th though. As i have analysed, i decoded the secret- WHAT ASPIRANTS NEED IS COMMON_SENSE, i claim this as i could manage to score not less than 130 in the old syllabus papers and 160 in the new syllabus- without negative marking. I do this as if i’m in the hall with my attitude as a serious IAS candidate. Marks i lost were as owing to reasons on the incognizance of current affairs. The new syllabus seems to feasible for any candidate having come from CBSE board. I need you to suggest me increase my answering base so that i score marks. Also, i have begun answering P.Ad Mains paper 2 with the same idea and a little faith. This increases your curiosity for the CSE and builds you enough intuition and self-confidence as needed for the foundational stages for a career in the Higher Civil Services.
Please suggest constructive tips or rather attitudinal steps to be as competent to ourselves. Thank you.
Dear Jayakumar,
It is brilliant that you have been scoring the way you have described already (without proper preparation). I think that you already have what it takes to crack this examination (proper attitude and aptitude). All that is required of you now is to cover the defined syllabus (in accordabce with upsc’s format and pattern) and keep yourself abreast of all current affairs to expand your range of information.
Way to go!!
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
Sir ,
I wanted to know about how to start the preparation for IAS. I have a commerce background and have even completed my P.G. For the preliminary stage , kindly guide me as to how to go about it. Sir , i even want to know when will the batch for the 2013 examination start.
Regards
Dear Smriti,
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
There is going to be a weekend batch in General Studies which will start from 18th August 2012. Details are available at http://www.rauias.com/weeken_batch.php
The next regular session will commence from 23rd November 2012. Details are available at http://www.rauias.com/november.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,
i am studying my m.tech 2nd year as the complete year is project i want prepare for IAS exams.would it be better to join a coaching institue or study through self learning.what books do you suggest for preperation ??
Dear Rushyanth,
1) Whether coaching or not (In GS or optional subject) is completely your decision. Yes, coaching certainly plays a vital role. It helps in providing the right orientation for the students and save valuable time in the process. They also provide information on such themes which are not easily accessible to the students. The most important role is the utility of “just in time” management and help the reorganisation of information hitherto gathered by the students (i.e. “just in case” collection of information). Also, it provides a learning and testing environment for the students which acts like a pace maker and keeps students working hard.
Not that you cannot succeed by self study alone. Essentially, even after coaching if a student does not self study then there is no way he/she can get success. Yes, certainly with no help, you’ll have to study by yourself, remain motivated, prepare a time table to keep yourself on track and test yourself periodically.
2) 2) The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read N.C.E.R.T. books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
Alongside, you must devote time reading 1 newspaper (The Hindu/TOI) and 1 journal regularly (Frontline/Pratiyogita Darpan) regularly and analytically. Make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view).
Thereafter, you must refer to our study material (in Prelims and Mains subjects) which is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. One should look for a study material which is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Material should be comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,
i want to know that, how CSAT is different from other aptitude tests taken by other copempetitive exams like ssc and banks,
thanks
plz reply
Dear Mahipal,
The CSAT is an Aptitude Test modified to test the competency of a prospective IAS officer who ensures social justice and takes decisions under the shadow of ethics. All Aptitude Tests are modified Intelligence Tests (IQ Tests). Under the axiom that human intelligence is a function of two skills – Ability to express thoughts better and understand what others have to convey, and Cognitive Ability, all aptitude tests check for Verbal and Numerical Ability, with a smattering of Reasoning questions.
Apart from this CSAT, being a test of recruitment to Civil Services, will test whether a candidate can handle the kind of Decision Making under the shadow of Ethics that an ideal IAS is capable of. CSAT (officially -> Preliminary examination’s Paper – II) lays more focus and gives more weight age to Comprehension section (as compared to other tests).
http://www.rauias.com/CSAT_PaperII.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
I am 30 years old and i am from General Category. Is there any chance dat i can appear for IAS Exam for 2013. Plz reply
Dear Ravinder,
Age is calculated as on 1st August of the year in which appearing for the exam. If you will attain 30 years of age as on 1st Aug 2013, then you will not be eligible for the 2013 exam. Read – http://www.rauias.com/eligibility.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir how to start preparation for the GS papers and sir i am doing external degree that i can get time to prepare for IAS examinations .sir changes in main pattern will affect from 2013 or 2014?
sir how to get your study materials?sir please reply i am waiting for u answer. thanking you vinay
Dear Vinay,
1) The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read N.C.E.R.T. books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
Alongside, you must devote time reading 1 newspaper (The Hindu/TOI) and 1 journal regularly (Frontline/Pratiyogita Darpan) regularly and analytically. Make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view).
Thereafter, you must refer to our study material (in Prelims and Mains subjects) which is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. One should look for a study material which is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Material should be comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam.
2) After introducing change at the Preliminary level of the exam (inclusion of Aptitude paper in place of an optional subject), UPSC is contemplating bringing changes at the level of the Mains examination as well. It is seriously examining the proposal of including compulsory papers in place of optional papers. All optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers for all. Changes could be incorporated from the year 2013 or later. Basically, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet.
Read the information at the following link for details (fee, postage, procedure to purchase, etc) about our study material – http://www.rauias.com/postalguidance.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
tx u vry mch sir,
i m very mch tx full to u tht u advised in such a simple n good way now i hv totally understood that wt to read n wt not to read.
i m planning for appearing in ias2013 pre exam.
for that i will start to read NCERT books as u advised in ur block n CSAT for pre.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
now sir i jst want to know that only all above books will be usefull in exam even if optional subjects are removed in new pattern. as i will read only these books what u hv suggested.
i m frm merchant navy BSC in nautical science, n 12th class with phy,che, n maths. n if optional subjects will be remain , then i want to take geography n philosophy.
pls advise sir, i will be highly greatful to u for this kind act.
praveen meena
Dear Praveen,
These books will help you in laying foundation for the General Studies syllabus. You will certainly have to study more in accordance with the syllabus and patter of question papers of General Studies and optional subjects. If optional subjects are removed and replaced by compulsory papers then you’ll have to study in accordance with the exact syllabus of the new papers introduced.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir….
1) how much maths is required for IAS exams i.e. upto which class ??
2) I’ve economics till 12 and in college also i’ve taken economics…is this a safe beneficial option for me if mains pattern changes ??
plz guide……!!
Dear Rohini,
1) Up till 10th class as part of Basic Numeracy section in Preliminary Exam’s Paper II
2) Yes, Economics is a relevant and an important subject. Logically, knowledge of Economics should be relevant and beneficial, along with knowledge of Public Ad, Political Science, Sociology, Geography (Biodiversity, climate change, etc), Science and Technology, etc, etc. However, things will only become clear once UPSC notifies us about the exact changes.
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
sir who decides age crieteria for civils govt or upsc because upsc is recruiting agency while it is govt which decided minimun eligibility
Sir,
now sir i complete my graduation from ayuervaid study m in interenship student
i want to crack this exams of civil services . I a s, please tell me in which subjects are more helpful to crack this exam which news paper, magzines etc sir which is good subjects for premlims and for main
please reply sir.
Amanpreet
Dear Amanpreet,
1) First of all, I suggest that you go through our blog and related Q&As on ‘how to select optional subjects’ from – http://www.rausias.com/blog/?p=69.
2) Subjects like Public Ad, Political Science, Geography, History, Sociology, Psychology etc are taken by maximum number of aspirants (from any stream/background). However, go through the link above first to understand why they are opted for more often by all aspirants.
3) Newspaper – The Hindu
Magazine – Frontline, Pratiyogia Darpan
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
3)
sir, m dr aman (mbbs), 24yrs, plz suggest me for the main subjects.
Dear Amna,
First thing, it is difficult to suggest optional subjects without speaking with the candidate, understanding her background, interest, inclination, aptitude, etc. On a general note, one must select such optionals which are complimentary with the syllabus of General Studies. Have you read our blog on optional subject selection?
In my opinion, in the dynamically changing environment of civil services (main) examination, you should consider subjects like Public Administration, Political Science, Sociology, Geography, etc which are relevant to General Studies and comprise of knowledge which UPSC might be interested to test you on in the changed pattern.
Regards,
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
sir,
I am totally confused about my optional selection. I am a Mechanical Engineering Degree holder and good in both science and art subjects. But the problem is i am not confident in my science subjects and i found comfort in art subjects( i scored much more in art subjects than science in my matriculation exams ). So is it OK for me to take history or geography or sociology?? …Please Advice
Dear Manu,
Majority students (be they from science or commerce background) keep arts subjects to clear the civil services exam. That is because they are easier in nature, have overlap with the General Studies paper and therefore are comparatively more scoring than other optional subjects. If you feel more comfortable with Arts subjects then certainly go ahead!!! All the three subjects you are considering are good subjects. Since both History and Geography have lengthy syllabus you may want to keep one of these with Sociology (which helps in Essay paper as well).
All the best,
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear Sir,
I am 12th pass out and I have applied for BSc Physics( honours),I aspire to become an IAS officer but I have been told that candidates from science stream have less advantage in the examination.Is it so ?Which subjects are scoring in CSAT and advantageous?Please guide me.
Thanking You
Dear Archana,
If you would go through UPSC’s annual reports, you’d find that there are as many or more candidates from science background as there are from Humanities stream in the merit list of successful candidates. However, it is true that many aspirants from science background keep Humanities subjects to crack civil services examination. This is because it has been found that science, engineering, commerce & accountancy and economics subjects have higher difficulty level as compared to other optional subjects available.
However, you need not worry about successful or scoring optional subjects already. There is a proposal underway which might be implemented by the time you become eligible for the examination. UPSC is planning to replace all optional subjects by comppulsory papers for all. So, basically after that, there will be no optional subjects and all aspirants will have to prepare for the same defined syllabus (level playing field for all).
Even, in case the format does not change, we can pick up relevant optional subjects (subjects which are easier to be picked up, have higher success rate and sylabus overlap with the compulsory papers of General Studies) later and prepare in them to appear in Civil Services Examination.
Must do at this stage:
Read Newspapers – The Hindu
Read Magazines – The Frontline, Economist
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir, i have thoroughly completed my course for the upsc examination. Are there any other exams for which i can appear other than the upsc in order to practice and get experience ?
Dear Simantha,
If you have prepared for Civil Services Exam then you can appear in all state level examinations as well. Syllabus is more or less the same, however, every state also focuses on state level general awareness. All states have their exams and you can find details about these from their respective websites.
All such examinations are also advertised in Employment newspaper.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hello sir,
I hv just completed my second year of btech and planning to give CSE in 2014.
Yesterday I tested myself on this year’s pre (paper I and II) and checked it through ur answer keys.
In paper II (aptitude), I got 134 out of 200 (60 correct and 20 wrong).
But in paper I (GS), I got only 27 out of 200 (32 correct, 56 incorrect and 12 unattempted)
For last 6 months, I hv been focussing on NCERT books and completed class VI to X history, class VII and VIII geography.
But this hardly helped me in giving paper I.
I just want to ask whether its too early to go for such tests and get panic or should I make changes in the way I m preparing. Please suggest me something in this regard.
Thank you.
Sir,
I will be joining MCA from this year. I am really interested in preparing for civil services examination. I would be grateful if you could suggest me that atleast how much (quality) time MUST be alloted to the preparation of this examination ( considering the fact that you have some other degree to study as well )? Please reply.
Dear Aditya,
There is no such fixed quantity of time that you should devote towards this exam. 6 hours of quality time spent regularly in the beginning should be good. However, that should peak towards 12 hours of quality time as you approach towards the exam.
Basically, more than quantity, quality of time spent should be given more importance. There are instances when people start preparing for the examination right from the school days. However serious preparation can be taken up from the midcourse of the graduation and must essentially peak soon after graduation. However there are instances when students have decided to take up this examination after masters degree. It is normally found that it takes about one – two year of serious preparation towards the attainment of the goal.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir, this is pavan i hav a doubt regarding the 2013 exam pattern related to civils so kindly help me. i belong to Andhra pradesh i had a attempt in 2007 for prelims i was an gradute at tht moment . i am in teaching profession as an english teacher . prlims as well as mains papers .
thanking you sir
Dear Pavan,
As of now the pattern of the Mains exam is the way it is described at – http://www.rauias.com/mainscheme.php.
To understand more about the pattern and format of the exam please go to our website and explore pages/links under ‘About IAS’.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
i completed my Btech in electronics and communication and currently working in an IT company. Its my big dream to crack civil service. I am interested in the topics given for electrical engineering mains . Can i take it as one optional subject and mathematics as another? The thing is , unfortunately i wont get much time to prepare as am working along with preparation.i will get only late nights and weekends for preparation. i heard that being a vast subject , electrical needs more than 8 hours per day to cover the entire syllabus.. i am very confused. So can i go ahead with this or go for any other Optional subject for mains? please help me with your guidance
Sir
I am ECE engineer and have passed out in 2012. I have decided to take pub ad and Electrical eng. as the optional. I am good at ele but seeing the comments abt the changes in the CSE should i drop this optional and take any other arts subject?
Dear Manish,
When the pattern will change is uncertain. However, subjects like Sociology, Political Science, Public Ad, Geography, Economics, etc will be more relevant in the scenario that there are only compulsory papers with a defined syllabus. You may consider your interest between Geography and Sociology and pick the one which interests you more.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
hello sir,
i am doing B.A.(hons.) in ”sociology” and subsi. -”political science”.{ Ist semester.}
age— 17 yrs 7 mnts
joined coaching for G.S. ; CSAT ; public adm.
if the pattern will change , then how it will effect me.
i have completed my graduation in eng(hons) n wish to appear for civil services.
i was thinking of taking history and pub. adm as my optional subjects. though i am confused whether i should go for history, geography or economics.
plz let me know which subject holds more importance for both mains and prelims and which would be beneficial.
i also wish to know the complete syllabus for mains and prelims and the books i should refer to. are N.C.E.R.T school books sufficient?
Dear Srishti,
1) Economics is a tough subject and requires you to study it in depth to understand it well. We suggest Economics optional to only Economics (H) graduates and no one else. I suggest that you consider and evaluate your interest between History and Geography and keep the one (as your 2nd optional) in which you feel more interested. Both the subjects help in equal proportions (in terms of syllabus overlap with General Studies and success rate) in Civil services exam.
2) For complete syllabus you can download and go through the document available at – http://www.rauias.com/iassyllabus.php
3) Refer to Rau’s study material in conjunction with NCERT books, newspapers and magazines:
Our study material is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. It is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Our material is comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam. Also, a list of reference books (including NCERT books ranging from class 7th- 12th) will be provided with our study material in case you want to refer to more resources.
NCERT books:
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hello sir,
i am student of elctronic engg. ( pre final year),as per new scenario of cse, upsc will be intersted in grad. subjects, bt i want to take P.A. and Geog. as an optional, what should i do? study core sub. of my engg or PA and Geog.?
help me sir plz what should i do???? i am fully determined to enter in the field of this elite service.
please suggest me!!!!!
Thank you
Dear Ashish,
Keep Public Ad and Geography as your optionals in Civil Services Exam. Both of them are successful optionals and also help in different sections of the compulsory General Studies papers (at both Pre and Mains level).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
I am very interested in civil services examination. I have read your blog and noticed that the humanities subjects tend to be very popular ( as far as selecting optionals is concerned ). I am a science student ( having studied social sciences only upto class 10th ). I wanted to ask you that does UPSC focus extensively on the factual data ( exact dates and years of events, precise locations of cities and countries for geography,exact descriptions of articles and acts of our constitution ) or on conceptual knowledge ( impact of historical events on economies at that times,etc).
I would be highly grateful if you could reply to my query. It is because of the fear of memorization, that I am unable to decide whether to prepare for these exam whole-heartedly or not.
Hi sir,
Does the Percentage matters for the exam as i am with degree of 57% in engineering?
Dear Maheshwar,
UPSC does not put any restriction on students who do not have a good academic record. It is for the same reason that UPSC allows all graduates (without any marks criteria) to appear in Civil Services Examination. Also, UPSC allows students who cleared their 12th from open school and who possess graduation degree to apply for the exam.
Also, if you clear both the Preliminary and Main rounds of Civil Services Examination, then even before entering the interview hall you have proved to the board that you have what it takes to crack the toughest competitive examination in the nation. The way you handle your interview will show the board your true potential (and not your previous marks).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
hello sir , i am b.com 3rd year student ..and want to do IAS prepartion ..but due to lack to avalaible resources i cann’t get proper guidence ..plzz help me how to prepare for IAS ..its subjects and books ..plzz help me
egarly waiting for your rply
Dear Shubham,
I’d first of all suggest you to read about the structure an format of the civil services examination from – http://www.rauias.com/planofexam.php. Also explore the other links únder the ”Ábout IAS” section to understand it in detail. Thereafter, you must download the detailed IAS exam pattern and syllabus from http://www.rauias.com/iassyllabus.php and go through it to develop basic understanding about this exam on the basis of which you’d be able to devise a strategy for youself.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,
i have already taken 2 attempts of upsc, but cud’nt evn make it in prelims.
i am planning to give cse 2013. what all can i do for mains preparation and can i get a coaching help in jaipu r, rajasthan.
Dear Mahak,
What you need now is professional guidance and direction. We have a centre in Jaipur from where you can take coaching. Please contact our Jaipur counselors to take this forward.
Phone numbers of Jaipur centre >> click here
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
hello sir,i am doing B.A. (HONS.) sociology and with subsi. political science
sem-I
age-17 yrs 7 mnts
and i am taking coa. for G.S. +CSAT + PUB. ADM.
.. PLZZZ comment …. am i right . or commiting mistake anywhere.. as per the idea of new expected pattern.
thank you
Dear Aakash,
Sociology, Political Science and Public Administration are all going to be relevant subjects even in the changed pattern of the Mains exam. However, you are just 17 now and have sufficient time with yourself before you will become eligible to appear in Civil Services Exam. My suggestion is that you prepare for both your college subjects (Sociology and Pol Sc) in detail while in college without starting coaching in any other optional subject for now. Start coaching in your final year (when you are atleast 19 years old).
Till then you must work aggressively on general awareness. Read newspapers (The Hindu) and magazines (Frontline, Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan) regularly and analytically.
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
Sir….
Can i secure high rank in ias exams without doing Masters Degree(post
graduation) because i want to appear in ias exams after my Bachelor
Degree..
awaiting for your answer.
Sir,
I finished my masters in biotechnology. I want to appear for 2013 civils exam. I would like to take pub admin as one option and cannot decide over other other option. When i went through the syllabus of anthropology i found few of the topics are related to my background. Is it a good option?
And about the changes in 2013 mains exam will public administration be one of the compulsory subject.Shall i start preparing with that subject along with GS till the change is announced.
Dear Maheshwari,
A) You can consider between Sociology (Sociology is a sub part of Anthropology) and Geography for your 2nd optional subject. Both the subjects are opted by many aspirants each year because of their success rate, relevance with the General Studies paper and conceptual nature.
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Between Sociology and Anthropology:
Now, first of all consider the definitions of Anthropology and Sociology:
# Anthropology – is a social science that is concerned with human culture as well as the (1) physical and (2) social characteristics that create that culture.
# Sociology – is a social science that studies the functionality of human society including origins, development, and organization (or in other words the social characteristics of human society/culture)
If you understand the definitions clearly, you will notice that Anthropology = (1) Physical characteristics of human culture and (2) Sociology
(i) What I am trying to arrive at is that Sociology is shorter in syllabus than Anthropology.
(ii) Helps in Essay paper (about 2-3 topics in the essay paper come from Sociology stream)
(iii) Will be more relevant in the event that the pattern of the Mains exam changes in 2013 or later.
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
B) See, nothing can be said about the new pattern right now. Logically, the compulsory papers in the new format should test you in areas like Pub Ad, Pol Sc, Sociology, Geo, Eco, Science & tech, etc, however, the relative weightage of each can not be commented upon. Pub Ad would not be one compulsory subject but yes can have a lot of weightage in one of the compulsory papers in the new format. Yes, you should certainly start preparation in GS (Pre cum Mains), Aptitude (Pre), Essay (Mains) and Pub Ad (Mains).
UPSC is expected to give more information about the proposed new pattern of Mains examination later this year (maybe in October-November).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,
I am a nursing graduate working as nursing officer (capt.) in army. i am short service candidate and will be released from service in 2015 . so i want to give my first attempt after it. i have gone through your suggestions to candidates and got the idea to start preparation but still confused to take which optional subjects. i have following subjects in my mind-psychology, sociology,public adminstration and anthropology. i had studied psychology in my 11,12 standard & 1yr of ma graduation and sociology in 1st year of graduation but i am worried about the availabilty of study material on it. i have science background (PCB). pub. adm. & anthropology looked interesting to me when i searched n read about the subjects. plz let me know which combination i shuld choose .
thank you
Dear Sapna,
1) Between Sociology and Anthropology:
Now, first of all consider the definitions of Anthropology and Sociology:
# Anthropology – is a social science that is concerned with human culture as well as the (1) physical and (2) social characteristics that create that culture.
# Sociology – is a social science that studies the functionality of human society including origins, development, and organization (or in other words the social characteristics of human society/culture)
If you understand the definitions clearly, you will notice that Anthropology = (1) Physical characteristics of human culture and (2) Sociology
(i) What I am trying to arrive at is that Sociology is shorter in syllabus than Anthropology.
(ii) Helps in Essay paper (about 2-3 topics in the essay paper come from Sociology stream)
(iii) Will be more relevant in the event that the pattern of the Mains exam changes in 2013 or later.
2) Also, in case the pattern changes then Psychology is not going to be of much relevance. Subjects like Public Ad, Sociology, Political Science, Geography, Economics etc will be certainly more useful. On top of that, Public Ad has the most concise syllabus, has overlap (Indian Constitution section) with the syllabus of General Studies and a very good success rate.
Keep Sociology along with Public Administration. Both of these subjects are successful in civil services and relevant with the overall scheme of the examination.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir, I am currently residing in Bangalore and want to appear for CS 2013. I saw the postal program offered by your institute. I have a doubt regarding the materials for GS for prelims and mains.
1.Its mentioned that material is ready and will be posted at once. How will that cover the current affairs of national and international importance if its not posted regularly ? Is there a separate offering for the same.
2.Do you also offer some online tests for each topic or its posted along with the material. How does one student get doubts clarified in case of correspondence study.
Dear Navneet,
1) All the content/books related to subject knowledge are dispatched together in one lot and one updated current affairs magazine (which covers all issues of current affairs which we deem important from examination’s perspective) each before Preliminary and Mains examination is despatched one month prior to the respective examination dates.
2) There is no doubt clearance facility available with the study material. Our postal/distance guidance refers to our study material only. However, we have an Online Tests Platform available for Preliminary Examination which includes sectional tests as well as full length tests along with their solutions, scores, marks analytics, All India ranks, percentile, etc. The online platform will be launched for the Peliminary Exam 2013 sometime in the month of October or November 2012. Details of the same will be avaiable on our website.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear Sir,
I’m MBA graduate, i would like to prepare Civil Servie exam,
how to Prepare preliminary Exam & Main Exam.
I choose Management & Geography is Optional for Mains.
From were I start Preparation.
and Suggest Books & magazine for Preparation…
Regards
Dhivya…
Dear Dhivhashini,
About Optional subjects: Geography is allright. However, for your 2nd subject, if you are an MBA/management graduate, then I’d suggest that you opt for Public Administration (instead of Management). This is because:
(1) Management vs Pub Ad
Management is a vast subject and not particularly helpful in the General Studies paper. In case you like Management as a subject then you can opt for Public Administration. Your knowledge in Management will help you to pick up and absorb Public Ad easily. Public Ad is a simple and concise subject and comprises of knowledge that is a must in case you aspire to get into civil services. On top of that, some syllabus of Pub Ad (related to Indian Polity) is also covered in General Studies paper which makes this subject complimentary with General Studies paper.
(2) In the event, that the Civil Services (Mains) Examination pattern changes, Public Administration will be relevant (Management might not be). Read – Expected Changes in I.A.S. Main Exam Pattern – http://www.rausias.com/blog/?p=382
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Approach
(1) Understand the syllabus. Closely and in detail.
(2) Go through previous years question papers to understand the pattern of questions and focus areas of the syllabus.
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
(3) After initial groundwork (going through NCERT books and getting in the mode of reading newspapers daily), you should take professional help to devise a targeted study plan/approach to crack the exam.
(4) Make a time schedule/ time table that helps you cover the entire syllabus. (i) in the most efficient manner, and (ii) in accordance with the real scope of the syllabus.
(5) Follow an integrated approach to cover the syllabus of General Studies at the Preliminary and the Mains level.
(6) Have patience (syllabus is vast), dedication and perseverance (be consistent) and pursue your target with the attitude of a winner.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
hello sir,
Sir I am a pharma graduate( B. Pharma), but as u know there is no subject that matches with our subject . I want to prepare for civil service exams. please help me out in this regards.
thanks
waiting for your reply
Dear Mayank,
The only confusion I believe is in picking up optional subjects (because the rest of the syllabus is defined and the papers are compulsory for everybody). You should pick such optionals which are relevant (have overlap) with the syllabus of General Studies, have a good success rate and in which you feel interested.
Majority of the students from science backgroud consider and opt for subjects like Public Ad/Political Sc, Sociology, Geography. This is because these these subjects are conceptual in nature and have some sections of syllabus wich are complimentary with General Studies paper. I suggest that you evaluate your interest among these subjects and opt for two which interest you the most.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Good evening sir/ma’am, I am B.Tech. first year student (Electronics and Comm.) , I have joined my college just few weeks before. I aim to be an IAS in future . Please suggest me when to start my prep.for it seriously. Actually I am damn confused as whether I will be able to prepare for civil services along with my engineering as my branch is one of the challenging one. PLEASE SUGGEST SOMETHING. Due to my disqualification in one of the very important exams IIT JEE I am mentally very depressed. My father always keep on taunting me on this issue. I am broken from inside. PLEASE DO REPLY ……
Dear Priyanka,
Just because you could not clear IIT-JEE des not mean anything. You should know that there are various ”means” to an ”end”. Getting any degree is not an end for anybody in this world. Do not get disappointed in life over these trivial set backs. If you aim to be in Civil Services, an IIT degree would not matter much. What will matter is how you tackle and prepare for the Civil services examination.
See, in case you feel that you will not be able to study for Civil Services alongside your degree course in graduation, then you may drop one year after completing graduation and study full time for civils examination. So, join our regular program after giving your final semester’s examination.
Till then however you must work on developing/creating a wide knowledge base by regularly reading newspapers (read The Hindu/The Times of India) and magazines (Frontlineand Economist). This will help you in more ways than one and will prepare you in its one way for the civils exam.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hello Sir,
I have two questions pertaining to Civil Service Examination.
1) Since there is a talk about change in mains pattern I decided to prepare for GS first. I think it is wise to prepare GS for both prelims and mains simultaneously. However, I feel a little insecure to start GS preparation for mains. Will there be a change in syllabus of GS mains, if at there is change in mains pattern?
2) My handwriting is somewhat bad. I keep trying to write neatly and I am practicing on it, However, I can only write in a understandably way but certainly not beautiful way. This maybe a sill question but due to it’s important I want to ask: Is writing beautifully is very essential factor to crack mains. Isn’t it enough if I write in a way they can understand? Does such a high level exam give importance to beautifulness Hand writing?
hello sir,
I ve given prelims 2012 but i ve not cleared. even though when i checked my answers on websites, i got cut off 210. i really don’t know what went wrong. i wanna crack the exam 2013. plz guide me.
Hello Sir,
I am a 3rd year engg student from Mumbai planning to appear for CSAT 2015 . I want to do IAS and I also started reading The Hindu but we get 2 days previous edition here so is it worth or shall I switch to TOI? I just read the newspaper as it is . I dont understand which aspects are imp and how to analytically read the newspaper. I would be thankful to you if you help me to sove my this problem. I am also confused in choosing the optionals so plzz help b/w following options sir,
1. Pol.sci and Sociology
2. Pub.ad and Sociology
3.Pol.sci and Philosophy
4.Pub.ad and Philosophy
Your reply has lot of importance for me sir
Thank You …
Dear Akanksha,
A) The events of National and International importance which effect human lives at large are relevant from General Studies point of view. Look out for news on Indian Economy, Polity, International institutions and affairs, Social Issues, environmental issues and developments in the field of science and technology.
B) Pick one between Pol Sc and Public Ad along with Sociology.
i) Political Science
It is an interesting subject and helps a lot in General Studies. If you’ll look at the syllabus of Political Science closely, you’ll find many of its sections overlap with the syllabus of General Studies. They include: Indian Polity & Governance and Polity (of GS(P) and GS (M) – Paper I), India & the World (of GS (M) Paper II), and International Affairs and Institutions (of GS (M) Paper II). These area do have a lot of weight in GS Mains. On top of that, Political Science will also help in the Essay paper as every year at least 1 topic comes from Political Science.
ii) Public Administration
Public Ad also has overlap with the syllabus of GS but lesser when compared to Pol Sc. Pub Ad helps in the Indian Constitution/Polity sections (of GS (P) and (M)) . And, Pub Ad has lesser syllabus when compared to Pol Sc.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir….
1) Can i secure high rank in ias exams without doing Masters Degree(post
graduation) because i want to appear in ias exams after my Bachelor
Degree..
2) sir pleaze tell how to make notes for ias while preparation…?
awaiting for your answer….sir plz reply i’m preparing for ias and need ur guidance…??
sir … i am student frm engineering background….im a bit confused abt taking my optional subjects. since ppl are saying dat pud ad may become compulsory i have decided to take..bt coming to the second one… i wanted to take maths… becoz i love maths… bt ppl r saying that there is neither proper material nor coaching centre for maths …..wat do u say ?? shld i opt fr maths or nt ?? …. thanking you …
Dear Sujata,
Yes, Mathematics is considered a tough subject and therefore not opted by many. Also, there is almost no guidance or quality study material available in it. On top of all of that, in case the pattern of the Mains examination changes in the near future, then Mathematics will not be of much relevance.
I suggest that you consider subjects like Political Science/Pubic Administration, Geography, Sociology, etc.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir, iam a 3rd year engineering student and planning to give civil services exam 1 or 2 years after my graduation. So how can i start my preparation from now onwards. Give me some suggestions plz
Dear Sidharth,
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
After initial groundwork (going through NCERT books and getting in the mode of reading newspapers daily), you should take professional guidance to devise a targeted study plan/approach to crack the exam and study the syllabus in accordance with the pattern and format of the exam.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear sir,
i have appeared in last year mains exam but could not clear with science optionals. this year i have cleared prelims and preparing with the same options for the mains. but problem is if i could not clear civils this year i would be at a big disadvantage as there will be no options from next year . so please advice me whether i should continue with the same options or switch to optins like pub ad , geography and start my preparation for next year civils
thank you
Dear Suresh,
It is almost logically certain that in the new pattern of the Mains examination none of the science optional subjects will be of much relevance. The compulsory papers which will be introduced in place of optional subjects should test aspirants on their understanding of relevant themes from Pol Sc, Pub Ad, Sociology, Geography, Economics, Sci & Tech etc. However, we do not know yet about the year of implementation of changes. Changes could be brought in 2013 or even later.
See, for this year, since you have cleared Prelims but are not left with much time now, go ahead with your optionals (the ones on which you have already spent time and only need to revise). Why should we just waste this chance? However, in case you do not make it through this year, then going ahead, pick up subjects like Pub Ad, Geo, Soc, Pol Sc to be on the safer side.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
i will be appearing for civil services in 2014.
currently i am done with the second paper of public adm. i studied it from your postal correspondance notes , DD Basu and internet .
I have completed accountability and control ( paper 1) from your notes ,ARC and ignou notes. which chapter shall i go now in paper 1?
please tell me whether i am going in right direction or not?
in case of changed pattern in 2014 ,my efforts will remain fruitful or not?
will pattern change be effecctive by 2014 ??
Thank you
sir, i am interested in geography and pub ad. as optional. sir guide me about them .
Dear Ashwani,
Both the optional subjects (Geo and Pub Ad) are very successful in civil services, have syllabus overlap with General Studies (thereby becoming complimentary in nature with the overall scheme of the examination), and are the most widely opted for subjects. Go for it!!
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir i am a CA and i want to appear in CSE 2014 AND will start preparation from Nov 2012 i need some suggestion regarding choosing the right subjects. my short list of subjects are
# Commerce and Accountancy
# Pub AD
#psychology
or should i hold on until Nigavekar committee report ?
Dear Vishal,
Because you plan to appear only in 2014, you have sufficient time at hand right now to figure out optional subjects for yourself. I suggest that you start your preparation in the compulsory papers of General Studies (both for Pre and Mains), Aptitude (Pre) and Essay (Mains) first without worrying about optionals. UPSC should give more direction in this regard by end of this year.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
I am an engineering student from electronics stream and want to prepare for civils. I will be eligible to give exam in 2014. I thought of opting of Public Administration & Economics, now with the uncertainty in the pattern is my choice safe. Some of my friends are telling it will be difficult to cope up with economics can i cope up with it.
Dear Rameshwara,
Yes, it will be difficult to cope up with Economics. Economics is not a general subject; it requires you to spend time with it and understand it in detail. We do not recommend Economics to non-Eco aspirants. I suggest that you consider subjects like Geography and Sociology which can be easily picked up.
However, since you have to appear only in 2014, you still have time at hand. Do not worry about your 2nd optional already. Start your preparation in the compulsory papers of General Studies (Pre and Mains), Aptitude (Pre), Essay (M) and Public Ad (M). UPSC is expected to give more direction about the pattern change by later this year.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir, I am from Himachal Pradesh and a Govt. Employ. I would like to know that only the changes are made in UPSC or state Public Commissions also. I was preparing with Geography and Political Science as optional s. Will you please suggest that whether I should continue with the optionals or try for others and will these optionals help me in the State PSC also?
And I would like to join your Coaching Centre but I m residing in Chandigarh. Is there any center in Chandigarh also and Is there any provision for the evening classes??
Dear Amit,
1) The proposal is only to bring changes in the UPSC’s Civil Services Exam (and not any state exams). State exams may however consider adopting the new UPSC’s format (once it is out and accepted) and may shift to the new format in some time/years (as Himachal did in Preliminary Exam by incorporating Aptitude paper in place of optional paper).
2) Both Pol Sc and Geography are good optionals (successful, scoring and complimentary with the syllabus of General Studies). We do not know what the exact syllabus of the new papers will be, but, knowledge of Pol Sc and Geography should be tested to a good extent. Also, you can keep both these optional for all your state examinations as well.
3) We are located only at Delhi and Jaipur. We run weekend batches in General Studies – http://www.rauias.com/weeken_batch.php
Good luck,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
I cleared my B.sc(H) Physics this year from D.U. i want to take Pub Ad and sociology as optional for mains but there has been lot of news about change in pattern. i have prepared for aptitude and preparing for general studies right now but i don’t know what should i study in pub ad and sociology which might be of help if there is a change in pattern. please tell me which part of the syllabus should i concentrate on.
regards
Aadarsh Prakash
Dear Adarsh,
See, nothing can be said with certainty (already) about the year of implementation of the change or the proposed syllabus under the new pattern. The changes could be incorporated by 2013 or maybe even later. In case changes are incorporated from 2013 then UPSC would give more direction in that regard by later this year (maybe by November). Though Public Administration and Sociology will remain relevant even in the new pattern, it is too soon to suggest what exactly to focus on in them.
I suggest that you pick up one optional (say Public Ad) to begin with (and not both) along with General Studies (of both Pre and Mains) and adopt a holistic approach for the time being. In case the pattern will change in 2013 you’ll get to know it soon after which you can modify/trim down/adopt the new strategy and if not then you are well on your path for 2013 exam.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hi,
i was searchign for information. ans i found this question.
http://164.100.47.132/LssNew/psearch/QResult15.aspx?qref=119947
however i am still not sure as in reply they have already said they have formed the committee.
I was working as a software engineer and have left my job around august last week to do focused preparation for UPSC exam.
I am thinking of preparing for GS and pub ad as i thought it may help even after pattern change. I suppose any possible pattern change will be notified by january. so if there is no pattern change I will go for “pali” as second optional as its course is very less as compared to other subjects.
Can you please comment how good are my assumptions ? you think its a feasible plan for UPSC 2013 ?
Dear Rohit,
Your assumptions are accurate and your approach is right. The changes are underway but we cannot say for certain whether they will be implemented by 2013 (could be implemented even later). If by 2013, then everyone will certainly get to know the new pattern and syllabus by January (at the time of notification) if not earlier.
Pub Ad should be a relevant subject. You have picked that up well.
I do not however know about your 2nd optional choice. Picking up a new literature subject (the theory does not apply if you have background in that language) could be as time consuming (even with shorter syllabus) as a known/logical/conceptual lengthier subject (lets say Sociology or Geography). The advantage with the latter though is that in case not everything goes well and you are pushed to attempt again in 2014 and the pattern changes in 2014, then the time spent on learning Pali will go completely waste. Knowledge gathered in Geo or Sociology is relevant (it overlaps with GS syllabus) now and will also remain so in the new pattern.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Given the fact that UPSC is contemplating a major revamp in the structure and eligibility criteria for the exam, one cannot but be stuck neck deep in dilemma with regard to the age limit and the no. of attempts available to various categories and, therefore, sir, what is your opinion on this issue? I’m a third year undergraduate student from St.Stephen’s college, Delhi University.
Dear Ganreipou,
Right now, UPSC is contemplating to bring about changes in the pattern of the Mains examination only, wherein, speculation is that all the optional subjects will be replaced by a few compulsory papers for all. There are no changes expected on the age eligibility front and number of attempts permitted per candidate as they are very dynamic in nature. UPSC is expected to give sufficient heads-up before introducing such changes (in case they are introduced, they should be implemented in a phased manner over a couple of years after giving sufficient notice to all so that nobody at a crucial juncture in his/her attempt is adversely affected).
From your perspective, since you are only a 3rd year student yet (and therefore would be about 20-21 years of age and not given any attempt), you need not worry about any of these issues. You would not be affected by any of these two changes.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,
I belong to the OBC section . my parents are class four employees whose salary exceeds 4.5 lakhs according to the revised pay scale. I would like to know whether I have to apply as general or OBC for civil service.
Dear Kishore,
As of now, if your household income exceeds 4.5 lakhs then you are considered to fall in the creamy layer and therefore will have to apply as a general category aspirant.
(However, this rule is under consideration and the limit maybe revised to 7 lakhs from 4.5 lakhs. As in only if the household income exceeds 7 lakhs will the family/members be considered to fall under creamy layer. But in the present scenario if your household income exceeds 4.5 lakhs then you are considered to fall in the creamy layer.)
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,
if the income is from government certain class employess are eligible to be obc even if the income is above 4.5l
http://obcreservation.net/ver2/faq-mainmenu-25/117-obc-creamy-layer-clarification.html
could you clarify
thank you
thank you very much suresh
U will definitely come under obc non creamy category… 4.5 income limit is applicable for the psu and the organization in which ur dad is working where class 1,2,3,4 is not considered. For central govt employee ,class system is there ..so as per ur case class 4 comes under non creamy despite of watever salary ur dad earns (even he crosses more than 4.5 lakh).. cheers..!! FOR FURTHER QUERIES CHECK ncbc.nic.in (creamy layer section)
sir,
i want to join class for upsc optional ie( geography and public administration ) for 2013
in Delhi .
but the optional subject would be replaced by compulsory subject as per few classes review .and i stay in Maharashtra . so sir guide me what to do ? should i join October batch or not ?
please give response
Dear Vijay,
The winter session (GS as well as optional subject batches) will start from 23rd November 2012. Details – http://www.rauias.com/november.php
See, there are two scenarios here for optional subjects (considering that you have already prepared yourself in the General Studies papers of both Pre and Mains):
1) Changes are not implemented from 2013 (optional subjects remain) – If you do not start preparing in (or complete before Preliminary Exam 2013) at least one optional subject then you will get overburdened with learning/acquiring new/fresh subjects/information in the time that one gets between Prelims and Mains examination (which is 4 months) whereas that time should be efficiently utilized in answer writing practice, revisions, taking tests etc. In this scenario, you decrease your chances of clearing Mains. So, after completing General Studies Mains you should also pick up one optional subject (lets say Public Administration the knowledge in which should also remain relevant in the new pattern).
2) Changes are implemented from 2013 (optional subjects are replaced by compulsory papers) – You start studying in one optional (lets say Public Administration, which is in tune with your strategy of covering majority syllabus of the Mains examination as well before Preliminary exam) and the changes are announced in January 2013 (in UPSC’s notification), then we will help you cover one of the papers (which utilizes knowledge acquired from Pub Ad) according to the new pattern. So, even if pattern changes, you are on track of covering as much as possible before Preliminary Examination.
Don’t stop and sit back in confusion. Find a way to optimize your effort to the maximum.
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
thanks sir
Hello Sir/ Ma’m,
I hail from Kashmir and it would not be possible for me to join ur daily/weekend coaching class. Otherwise i myself want to acquir guidance from ur acadamy. So, is there any substitute of that? I mean to say Online Classes or Classes on Phone Calls etc.
Thanks!
Dear Waheeda,
If you are unable to shift to Delhi and take classroom coaching, then the other option you have is that:
1) You purchase our study material and self study.
All the content/books related to subject knowledge are dispatched together in one lot and one updated current affairs magazine (which covers all issues of current affairs which we deem important from examination’s perspective) each before Preliminary and Mains examination is dispatched one month prior to the respective examination dates.
Refer to Rau’s study material in conjunction with NCERT books, newspapers and magazines:
Our study material is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. It is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Our material is comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam. Also, a list of reference books (including NCERT books ranging from class 7th- 12th) will be provided with our study material in case you want to refer to more resources.
NCERT books:
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
2) We have an Online Tests Platform available for Preliminary Examination which includes sectional tests as well as full length tests along with their solutions, scores, marks analytics, All India ranks, percentile, etc. The online platform will be launched for the Preliminary Exam 2013 sometime in the month of November 2012. Details of the same will be available on our website.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir
i m general categray student . i didn,t qualify prilms exam 2012 .
i hv done m.sc. in mathematics and jrf(net) in mathematics also i hv done
M.Tech from IIT Delhi. i hv only 2 attempt. my optional is mathematics and hindi
litarature. about optional change i m very upset about optional .
please tell me sir wt can i do continue study with optional or not.
please reply me sir as soon as possible.
thanks sir.
Dear Atul,
See, the changes are (not rumors) being seriously contemplated by UPSC. UPSC has constituted a committee to (review changes advocated by different committees constituted for the same purpose before) suggest changes in the Mains examination. Speculation is that all the optional subjects will be removed and replaced by a few (2-3) compulsory papers for all. However, nothing can be said with certainty about the year of implementation of these changes. The changes could be implemented and introduced from 2013 or take more time. If 2013, then UPSC should give more direction in this regard by later this year (maybe November).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
In the midst of this rumour, I am in a confusion whether to take classes for Optional 2, which is a literature. Could you please suggest if it is wise to wait till this year end for the changes to be announced or change my optional instead of taking a chance??; as it will be my 2nd attempt in 2013 and could not get through my 1st attempt this year.
Dear Jyothi,
See, the changes are (not rumors) being seriously contemplated by UPSC. UPSC has constituted a committee to (review changes advocated by different committees constituted for the same purpose before) suggest changes in the Mains examination. Speculation is that all the optional subjects will be removed and replaced by a few (2-3) compulsory papers for all. However, nothing can be said with certainty about the year of implementation of these changes. The changes could be implemented and introduced from 2013 or take more time. If 2013, then UPSC should give more direction in this regard by later this year (maybe November).
If you are not a Literature expert (graduate/PG in your chosen literature subject) then I suggest you take and stick with such optional subjects (knowledge in which) will be relevant with General Studies paper now and also in the new pattern of the Mains examination (in case it is implemented in 2013). Consider selecting optionals like Political Science, Public Administration, Sociology and Geography.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Respected Sir,
I am B.Tech ( Information Technology ) graduated in 2012. I am also placed in a reputed multinational company and my joining time start after march. Sir my final aim is one and only one to become IAS officer. I want to get my rank within 100. Please suggest me is i attempt 2013 paper or i will attempt exam in 2014 ? Please give some suggestion regarding books. What should i do with optional paper ? waiting for your reply..
Dear Abhinav,
A) You are educationally eligible to appear in Civil Services 2013 Exam. Now, whether you can prepare yourself for 2013 exam depends on the quantity and quality of time that you can devote towards studies starting immediately (it will be required for you to spend 8-10 hours of quality time towards the preparation consistently over one year). Starting now, we have 9 minimum months before preliminary Exam 2013 and overall 13 months (about a year) before Mains 2013. So, we are comfortable on the timeline front.
B) Our next session/batch will start from:
1) Weekend Batch in General Studies will start from 29th September – subjects covered Prelims (Paper I & II) and Main Exam (General Studies & Essay) – Details http://www.rauias.com/weeken_batch.php
2) Regular session in General Studies and Optional subjects will commence from 23rd November – Details available at http://www.rauias.com/november.php
C) Whether 2013 or 2014, I will suggest that you start now:
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
hi sir, you are doing a fantastic job by helping out every one..thank you..
sir i wanted to ask you that usually in how much time does the upsc syllabus gets revised ???(in years) and sir could you tell me the books(full complete syllabus) for PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION(as it would be helpful after revision of syllabus) ….PLZ HELP ME OUT SIR..
Dear Rahul,
1) If a student is consistent and he is able to devote in six hours of valuable time on a daily basis consistently over one year it is normally considered good enough for the purpose.
2) Best would be that you refer to our study material in Public Ad (or any other subject). Do not start from referring to different resources.
Our study material is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. It is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Our material is comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam. Also, a list of reference books (including NCERT books ranging from class 7th- 12th) will be provided with our study material in case you want to refer to more resources.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
dear sir,
pls gve me full information abt csat 2013. how i prpre? i hv dne graduatn lst yr. sir pls tell how i prepre 4 csat
Dear Geet,
CSAT or Civil Services Aptitude Test is an unofficial/popular term for Civil Services (Pre) Exam.
Format and pattern of exam
Now, The Civil Services Examination comprises two successive stages:
1) Civil Services (Preliminary) Examinations (Objective Type) – for the selection of candidates for Main Examination; and
2) Civil Services (Main) Examination (Written Test and Interview) – for the selection of candidates for the various services and posts
The Preliminary Examination consists of two papers of Objective type (multiple choice questions – there are four alternatives for the answer to every question) and carry a maximum of 400 marks.
1) General Studies – 200 marks; and
2) Aptitude – 200 marks.
This examination is meant to serve as a screening test only; the marks obtained in the Preliminary Examination by the candidates who are declared qualified for admission to the Main Examination will not be counted for determining their final order of merit. Only those candidates who are declared by the Commission to have qualified in the Preliminary Examination in a year are eligible for admission to the Main Examination.
The Main Examination will consist of a:
1) written examination,
2) an interview test (Interview is the last leg of the process and only shortlisted candidates from Mains written exam are called for interview and therefore we shall not discuss this for the time being).
The Main written examination comprises a total of nine (9) papers of two types:
a) 2 papers of non-ranking types, include:
Paper I: Indian language, to be selected by the candidate out of languages included in the Eighth Schedule to the Constitution, and – 300 marks
Paper II: English, which is a compulsory paper – 300 marks
b) 7 papers of ranking type
Paper III: Essay – 200 marks
Paper IV & V: General Studies – 300 marks per paper
Paper VI, VII: 1st optional subjects with two papers each – 300 marks per paper
Paper VIII, IX: 2nd optional subjects with two papers each – 300 marks per paper
(For list of optional subjects click here)
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Preparation technique
(1) Understand the syllabus. Closely and in detail.
(2) Go through previous years question papers to understand the pattern of questions and focus areas of the syllabus.
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan (Don’t skip this)
(3) After initial groundwork (going through NCERT books and getting in the mode of reading newspapers daily), you should take professional help to devise a targeted study plan/approach to crack the exam.
(4) Make a time schedule/ time table that helps you cover the entire syllabus. (i) in the most efficient manner, and (ii) in accordance with the real scope of the syllabus.
(5) Follow an integrated approach to cover the syllabus of General Studies at the Preliminary and the Mains level.
(6) Have patience (syllabus is vast), dedication and perseverance (be consistent) and pursue your target with the attitude of a winner.
……………………………………………………………………………………
Alternatively, download and go through the detailed Civil Services Examination’s pattern, syllabus and strategy from – http://www.rauias.com/UPSC%20Civil%20Services%20Exam%20Syllabus.pdf
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir
i compleat my education only in telugu meadiam and i don’t no how to start my civils preparation from witch books like[ up to 10th class telugu meadiam book's or
N C E R T book's or other book's ] that’s y iam so confused
please clear my problom sir please
y because iam full hard worker but i don’t no the way so please give me a rode map sir please please
Dear Mohan,
At the Civil Services (Mains) stage, a candidate has to write descriptive answers. Candidates should choose the language medium in which he/she can write expressive and content rich answers. Marks are awarded for how accurately a student can express/answer a question within the word limit allowed (concisely).
Generally, we suggest that you keep the medium in which you have a better grasp and understanding.
However, quality study material and guidance might not be easily available in Telegu medium (in Delhi/ atleast we are not aware of any institute which provides either coaching or study material in Telegu) which could prove to be a deterrent in your way. You could try and contact some professors/teachers/coaching institute in Chennai for more know how on study material (and guidance) availability in Tamil medium. In case you do not find any quality guidance in Telegu then English language seems a better option.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear sir,
Good Morning.
NCERT book that u’ve suggested, should we buy of old course ? as old course was much more extensive or new one are also adequate ?
Dear Puneet,
Yes, you should refer to the old versions in History and Geography. For the rest, General Science and Economics, you should refer to the new versions.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Definetely is there a change in 2013 mains,my optional subjects are history and pub admn ,is there any helpful with these optionals incase of change in mains pattern
Dear Krishna,
See, the changes in the pattern of the Mains examination are being contemplated by UPSC. UPSC has constituted a committee to (review changes advocated by different committees constituted for the same purpose before) suggest changes in the Mains examination. Speculation is that all the optional subjects will be removed and replaced by a few (2-3) compulsory papers for all. However, nothing can be said with certainty about the year of implementation of these changes. The changes could be implemented and introduced from 2013 or take much more time before they are implemented. If 2013, then UPSC should give more direction in this regard by later this year (maybe November).
Though nothing can be said about the proposed syllabus unless UPSC officially releases it, but, knowledge in Public Ad and at least Modern Indian History (which deals with India’s freedom struggle) should be relevant.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear sir,
I have been preparing for the UPSC examinations for the past two years,joining an reputed coaching centre in tamilnadu…..now im doing my U.G IInd year with computer science as the major…..Now i have a clear understanding of the subjects and im good with CSAT
I need guidance… For G.S. Mains, Writing an answer in the same language as given in the book or newspaper but according to the question,will devaluate my marks.eg. Or only explanation by me is necessary.
Dear Rama,
See, examiners will pay special attention to the candidate’s grasp of content and to his/her ability to think constructively and to present his/her ideas concisely, logically and effectively.
See, there is going to be no problem in writing an answer as it is from a particular resource. However, in case a question is supposed to be answered in 200 words and you have read it elaborately (in 600-800 words) from a resource, then it will be your ability to separate the wheat from the chaff and present what is asked in the most concise, logical and effective manner which will fetch you marks.
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
See, if there is a particu
limited words
Nigwekar committee report submitted in pmo….can we expect the change in mains pattern
Nothing can be said till UPSC gives official/formal indication/direction/intimation in that regard.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Rau sir, i wanted to know whether if mathematics has been made mandatory in the mains pattern????….
Dear Amit,
The pattern of the Mains examination has not changed yet. Mathematics is available as an optional subject right now. However, we do not think that Mathematics will be a compulsory paper as part of the new proposed syllabus.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear Sir,
I am an engineering final year student , my result will be declared approx in January 2013 . Am I eligible to write the 2013 prelims exam in May?
Dear Khizer,
Students in their final years are also eligible to appear in Civil Services Examination of that year provided that (i) they attain 21 years of age as on 1st August of that year and (ii) they be able to produce marks-sheet (any other proof of graduation) at the time of filling of Mains application form (only students shortlisted from prelims are required to apply again fir the Mains exam via an application form for the Mains in the moth of August of that year).
If your result will be declared by Jan 2013, then you can certainly appear for 2013 examination (provided that you have also attained 21 years of age as on 1st August 2013).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
I have done law from National law School and want to opt law as one of my optional subjects . Currently I want to prepare for law as optional . Tell me how good and scoring law is as optional and what should be my another optional keeping in mind that pattern might be changed in future . Also my law coaching would be of 5 hrs duration daily . Tell me can I prepare General Studies along with it or not … Please suggest me strategy to go for IAS preparartion ..
Dear Rachit,
1) In 2009 examination, 313 aspirants appeared in the Mains examination with Law as an optional subject out of which 33 were finally recommended. That is a very good success rate of 9.2% (which is as good as the success rate of Pub Ad and slightly better than that of Sociology, Geo, Pol Sc, etc)
2) In case you have already completed Law once in college, it will make better sense if you leave that for the time being and focus on the compulsory papers of civil services examination, which are Paper I and Paper II of Prelims and General Studies and Essay of Mains alongwith the other optional subject (which will be new for you). You have to appear in Law paper only at the Mains level for which you will have to first of all clear the Preliminary level. After clearing Prelims, you can pick up Law and revise it all over again.
3) Consider keeping one between Political Science or Public Ad for your 2nd optional subject.
……………………………………………………………………………………………….
Strategy:
See,
I) Civil Services (Pre) Exam 2013 will be held on 20th May 2013: Syllabus –> Paper I (GS) and Paper II (Aptitude)
Selected aspirants (result is declared in August) will be called for the Mains examination
II) Civil Services (Mains) Exam 2013 will start from 5th October, 2013: Syllabus (of ranking papers)–> GS (2×300), Essay (1×200), 1st optional (2×300), 2nd optional (2×300)
This leaves you with roughly 4 months between Prelims and Mains. This time should be reserved for revision and not picking up fresh subjects.
Therefore,
Initiate preparation in all the compulsory papers which are Pre (Paper I and Paper II) and Mains (GS and Essay) along with 1 optional subject (which will be new for you) now. Try and complete this much by March 2013. Devote the next 1.5-2 months in Preliminary revision only. After appearing in preliminary examination, pick up everything you have completed for the Mains and start revising.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Also please tell me that jobs /posts which one gets after clearing PCS (PROVINCIAL CIVIL SERVICES ) Exams like HCS ( Executive) are they also good and rewarding or not ? I know not as good as IAS but are they really of good stature or not ?
Sir,
I am in final year of my college with mechanical engineering as background. I have started preparations with mechanical engineering as my first optional and Public Administration as another. I was thinking that before passing out from the college (June, 2013), I will complete mechanical engineering and public administration in parallel. I got to know that in 2013, UPSC is gonna eliminate optional papers. What should I do? I am totally confused now. Is it ok to continue with mechanical? When will they announce the new syllabus?
Dear Gaurav,
1) See, the changes in the pattern of the Mains examination are being contemplated by UPSC. UPSC has constituted a committee to (review changes advocated by different committees constituted for the same purpose before) suggest changes in the Mains examination. Speculation is that all the optional subjects will be removed and replaced by a few (2-3) compulsory papers for all. However, nothing can be said with certainty about the year of implementation of these changes. The changes could be implemented and introduced from 2013 or take more time to get implemented. If 2013, then UPSC should give more direction in this regard by later this year (maybe November).
2) Certainly, if the changes are implemented then Mechanical engg (or for that matter any other specialized subject) will be replaced. And everyone will have to study according to the same defined syllabus (which will be carved out of various relevant subjects/themes to the job profile of a civil servant) as will be introduced by UPSC. My suggestion is that you initiate your preparation not in any optional subject but in the compulsory papers of the exam (which are Paper I and Paper II of Prelims and General Studies and Essay paper of Mains).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear Sir
Do you provide postal program for IAS Mains . I would like to take postal program for Anthropology and general studies Mains.
An early response will be appreciated…
Asif
Dear Asif,
We provide our study material which you can purchase. We, however, do not make study material in Anthropology.
You can take General Studies (M) from us. All the details regarding our study material (fee, postage, procedure to get study material, etc) are mentioned here – http://www.rauias.com/postalguidance.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear Sir,
I am aspirants Of IAS. I have started mugging NCERT books. Sir only problem with me is that a FIR is registerd for fighting and the matter is in district court since 6 years. But acctually I was not involve in that fighting.
Sir Please suggest me. What Should I do?Am I eligible for IAS?
Regards
Vinay Upadhyay
Dear Vinay,
Many a students are involved in minor fist fights/scuffles at college level. Just a complaint filed against you in a police station or an ongoing case will not disqualify you from taking Civil Services Examination. Unless you are convicted in a case you are eligible to apply for the exam.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear Sir,
Thank you very much for the reply.
Sir I have Few doubts regarding Prelims:-
1. I am Working Professional I can Utilize only 5hours daily for IAS Prep. What should be my strategy for Prelims.
2.After seeing the new change in Prelims Syllabus in 2011 and 2012, how many marks required to qualify the Prelims.
3.From which topic I should Start the Ancient History.e.g Prehistoric Ages or Sources of Ancient History.
please guide me.
Regards,
Vinay Upadhyay
Dear Sir,
I have gone through>Expected Changes in I.A.S.
Main Exam Pattern and found that “UPSC is to insure that all the candidates are judged on the basis of indepth knowledge and understanding, rather than information gathered at the last movement”.Also i have been looking forward to appear in 2014 cse…however, have big gaps in academics with low % age… so should i follow my dream of becoming an IAS ?
hope to hear from u soon with a straight forward reply…
Thanks and regards,
PRASHANT
Dear Prashant,
That is where we come in. To fill in the gaps.
Our role is to provide the right orientation for the students and save valuable time in the process. We also provide information on such themes which are not easily accessible to students. The most important role is the utility of “just in time” management and help the reorganisation of information hitherto gathered by students (i.e. “just in case” collection of information).
See, you’ll get all the know how required to crack the exam, but it is you who’ll have to take and absorb that information.
If you desire, then make it happen!!
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
dear sir,
I will be appearing in 2014 examination. So, when should i start and stop reading newspaper?
Dear James,
From the examinations perspective current affairs covered in the preceding 1 year are important. However, for an overall personality development (for interview) and to keep yourself abreast of news that are of national and international importance (which is also a requirement of the job that you are aspiring to get selected in), you should start reading newspaper now and not stop ever.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
noted….thanks !
Hello Sir.. im an engg student from ece branch … I have started IAS prelims preparation from september… But hv a confusion about mains exam…about the optional subjects…however i hv a intrest in public ad…
kindly suggest me abt dat ,….
thank you…
Dear Milan,
Certainly opt for Public Administration if you have interest in it. It is one of the most widely opted for optional subjects because it is scoring and successful, has concise syllabus, and also helps in the ‘Indian Constitution’ section of General Studies.
There are other subjects as well which are interesting, relevant with the overall (compulsory) syllabus of the civil services exam and successful (scoring). You may consider your interest in Sociology and Geography. However, I suggest that you do not worry about the 2nd optional subject yet. It is advisable to initiate studies for civil Services examination in its compulsory syllabus. Start your preparation in General Studies (Pre-cum-Mains together) for now. You will get to study each of these subjects (Geo, His, Pol Sc, Pub Ad, Sociology, etc) in certain capacity as part of General Studies. You can decide about your 2nd optional subject on the basis of your experience gained after studying the different segments of General Studies.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir, i am a chartered accountant and want to prepare for 2014 civil services exams. sir kindly reply to my these questions.
1. how should i start my preparation from today….?
2. besides NCERT, which book i should refer for my preparation..?
3.which magazine i should read regularly..?
4.and the MOST IMPORTANT QUESTION IS…should i join any job or go in full tym study..?
sir please reply as soon as possible..
thanks you..
Dear Aspirant,
1) It is advisable to initiate studies for Civil Services Examination in its compulsory syllabus. Start your preparation in General Studies (Pre-cum-Mains together) for now. Start reading NCERT books in relevant areas/themes to refresh and develop basics in the various segments of General Studies paper. You will get to study each of these subjects (Geo, His, Pol Sc, Pub Ad, PCB, etc) in certain capacity as part of General Studies. You can decide about your optional subjects on the basis of your experience gained after studying the different segments of General Studies.
2) Stick with NCERT book along with our Study Material (we do not recommend going through 100 different resources).
3) Magazines: (a) Pratiyogita Darpan and the special editions of Pratiyogita Darpan in Geography, History, Indian Economics and Indian Polity (b) Frontline. Newspaper (a) The Hindu
4) What I must tell you on this front is that it will be required for you to spend 8-10 hours of quality time consistently over one year towards the preparation of the exam. So, decide accordingly. It will be better if you can take out a year for preparation.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
SIR
CURRENTLY I M DOING MY B.TECH(2nd YEAR, 3rd SEM,ELECTRICAL)
SO PLZ TELL ME HOW TO PREPARE FOR IAS.HOW TO START THE PREPARATION FOR PRELIMS.AND ALSO TELL ME SIR CAN I GIVE IAS 2014 AS 2014 MAY WILL BE THE END OF MY 6th SEM(3rd year of B.tech) and FINAL YEAR 8TH SEM WILL BE COMPLETED BY MAY 2015.SO PLZ TELL ME SIR WHEN I WILL BE ELGIBLE FOR THE IAS EXAM .AS I HAVE GONE THROUGH ELIGILBILTY FOR IAS 2102 NOTICE AND I FOUND:
(iii) Minimum Educational Qualifications
:
The candidate must hold a degree of any of
Universities incorporated by an Act of the
Central or State Legislature in India or other
educational institutions established by an
Act of Parliament or declared to be deemed
as a University Under Section-3 of the University
Grants Commission Act, 1956, or
possess an equivalent qualification.
NOTE I :
Candidates who have appeared at an examination
the passing of which would render
them educationally qualified for the
Commission’s examination but have not
been informed of the results as also the
candidates who intend to appear at such a
qualifying examination will also be eligible
for admission to the Preliminary Examination.
All candidates who are declared qualified
by the Commission for taking the Civil
Services (Main) Examination will be required
to produce proof of passing the requisite
examination with their application for
the Main Examination failing which such
candidates will not be admitted to the Main
Examination. The applications for the Main
Examination will be called sometime in themonth of July/August, 2012.
……………………………………………………………
SO IF I WILL APPEAR FOR IAS 2014 THEN HOW I WILL SHOW THE
proof of passing the requisite
examination FOR MAIN that will be in OCT 2014 AND I HAVE TO SHOW MY PROOF OF PASSING(COMPLETE) IN JULY\AUG 2014 ????
AS I WILL COMPLETE MY DEGREE IN MAY 2015???
SO PLZ TELL ME SIR ????????
WAITING FOR UR REPLY……………………
ONE CORRECTION :
ELIGILBILTY FOR IAS 2102* NOTICE AND I FOUND:
IT IS 2012 NOT 2102.
Dear Anil,
A) You will be eligible to appear in 2015 examination (the same year in which you’ll complete your final year in college).
B)
1) One needs to keep in mind the basic fact that if the goal is to reach the highest level of achievement, then one must have not only ample patience for details, but should be able to keep the big picture regarding any theme in one’s mind at the time of study. Thus the preparation strategy is to follow a mix of both micro and macro level approaches. The first step in this direction is the understanding of the syllabus. One must look at the syllabus closely and in detail. After that, one should analyze the past years’ question papers that indicate the important areas, as well as, the real scope of the syllabus. Then comes the next step of apportioning of time depending on the importance and length of each area.
2) See, the basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Times of India, Frontline, The Economist, Pratiyogita Darpan (Don’t skip this)
(3) After initial groundwork (going through NCERT books and getting in the mode of reading newspapers daily), you should take professional help to devise a targeted study plan/approach to crack the exam in accordance with UPSC’s format and pattern of question papers.
(4) Make a time schedule/ time table that helps you cover the entire syllabus. (i) in the most efficient manner, and (ii) in accordance with the real scope of the syllabus.
(5) Follow an integrated approach to cover the syllabus of General Studies at the Preliminary and the Mains level.
(6) Have patience (syllabus is vast), dedication and perseverance (be consistent) and pursue your target with the attitude of a winner.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
THANX A LOT SIR………….:):)
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am a final year engg undergrad and would be appearing for CSE in 2013 and aspiring to crack the entrance in my first attempt only. I have started preparing for CSE in the month of July effectively with the optional subjects Economics and Public Administration.
Strategy comprises mainly of completing with Economics(Mains), GS(Pre+Mains) and Essays before May 2013 and Pub Ad between the period of Prelims and Mains.
Though for the preparation I am reading the material, books, journals, periodicals etc.,(for Econ+GS) referred by various portals, peers and students who have cleared CSE, the dilemma lies in the strategy I have opted. Moreover I am not able to gain confidence in the trajectory and the preparation doesn’t sounds convincing enough as per my own analysis.
Kindly provide me a counselling on this as to what must be my strategy as of now for an effective and a sound coverage of syllabi in its most chronological order. And also shed a light on the current status of speculations striving about the expected pattern change in CSE-2013(both Pre & Mains).
Warm Regards
Dear Nandish,
1) The strategy is that one must try and cover as much as possible before Preliminary Examination so that the time available after Preliminary up till Mains could be utilized in revision. So, you have carved out a good strategy for yourself wherein you are trying to cover a difficult subject (Economics) beforehand and leaving comparatively simpler subject for later.
However, are you very sure about Economics? Generally, only Economics graduates should keep it as an optional. For anybody else it will amount to investing more time and energy than required for any other general subject (like Sociology, Geography. etc which can be easily picked up even without educational background in the subject).
Also, study for the General Studies of both the Pre and Mains together.
If you face difficulty in preparing through self study, you can certainly resort to formal coaching which will help in providing the right orientation and save valuable time in the process. It will also provide information on such themes which are not easily accessible to the students. The most important played by coaching is the utility of “just in time” management and the reorganisation of information hitherto gathered by the students (i.e. “just in case” collection of information). Also, it provides a learning (according to the format and pattern of Civil services Examination) and testing environment for the students which acts like a pace maker and keeps students working hard.
2) Regarding change in the pattern and syllabus of Mains examination: UPSC has not indicated anything yet. However, it has released calendar of 2013 examination already which is exactly like it was last year and therefore it is being believed that there would be no change this year. In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change, it should notify it in public domain soon enough (maybe in October).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Gratitude for the response.
Though for a formal coaching as you reiterated I find myself not in sync with the methodology adopted at the centres and since childhood I always relied on self study be it any exam.
As far as Econ is concerned, its been almost a couple of years that I am reading it out of my own personal interest therefore zeroed-in as an optional subject due to prior acquired in-depth knowledge.
Sir the only conjecture is confidence build-up for which I am scouting for any counseller/teacher in the same league who could infuse me with or who could point out flaws in my preparation strategy (which I am still not convinced of and cant evaluate or know on my own) and suggest me measures to rectify it.
Can I expect Rao for the same?
Thanks & Regards,
Nandish Agarwal
dear sir,i am a b-tech 2012 passout.i have decided to write my upsc exam in 2014.i want to start up with my coaching from now onwards.what should i start up with?? general studies or optionals?? i have thought up for opting pub ad. and sociology as my optionals for the same.i am quite confused due to news about changing of the examination pattern.plz do help me out sir.so that i can proceed in studying for the same further.
Regards
Dear Sonali,
1) Yes, start with proper coaching now even if you want to appear in 2014 examination. However, start with only General Studies (Paper I and Paper II of prelims and General Studies and Essay of Mains). There is no hurry to pick optional subjects already. In case, UPSC announces no change in the pattern of the exam by May/June 2013, you should also pick up one optional subject then. Our new session starts from 23rd November 2012. Details are available at – http://www.rauias.com/november.php
2) You have picked up good optional subjects. Public Administration and Sociology are successful subjects in civil services and are relevant with the overall scheme of the examination (Pub Ad helps in ‘Indian Constitution’ section of the General Studies paper and Sociology helps in ‘Issue of Social Relevance’ section of the General Studies paper as well as in the Essay paper). On top of that, it seems that both the subjects will also have relevance in the new/proposed pattern of the Mains examination.
3) In case the pattern of the examination changes in 2014, first of all the impact of change will be felt by everyone equally (because no body has any insider information regarding the proposed pattern or the date of implementation of the proposed pattern). Thus, you (or for that matter anyone else) will not be at any disadvantageous position vis a vis other aspirants. You could however be at an advantageous place compared to others who would be studying in such specialized optionals (like some engineering subjects, mathematics, commerce & accountancy, etc) which have no relevance with the job profile of a civil servant.
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
Dear Sir,
I want to take law and public ad. as my optional subject for ias mains although i have done my graduation in commerce it doesn’t interest me much, kindly provide me some guidance i like law as a subject, in case the pattern changes i think than also this combo will be helpful for me. thanks in advance sir.
Dear Stephen,
1) Regarding Public Administration: Certainly opt for Public Administration if you have interest in it. It is one of the most widely opted for optional subjects because it is scoring and successful, has concise syllabus, and also helps in the ‘Indian Constitution’ section of General Studies.
2) Regarding Law: You must have studied Industrial and Company Law to some extent as part of B.Comm but Law optional is a completely different ballgame. Only BA LLB graduates should opt for Law. It would not be advisable to opt for Law without any background.
I suggest you consider optionals like Sociology and Geography which can be picked up even without any background and which will also help in the General Studies paper.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
hi sir
this is mufeed my date of birth 15/01/1983 category general
am i eligible for civil service 2013
Dear Mufeed,
Dear Umakant,
General Category aspirants can appear at the exam 4 times between 21-30 years of age (should have attained 21 years and should not have attained 30 years) wherein age is calculated as on 1st August of the year in which appearing for the exam.
According to your DOB, you will attain 30 years of age on 15-01-2013 (before 1st Aug 2013) and therefore will not be eligible to appear in 2013 examination (as you will be 30+ as on 1st August 2013).
However, you are still eligible for State Civil Services /Public Service Commission examinations. For eg, you are still eligible to apply for Haryana or Uttar Pradesh State service Examinations.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
one more thing SIR,
CURRENTLY I M GOING THROUGH NEWSPAPERS(THE HINDU AND TIMES OF INDIA) AND MAGAZINE (CIVIL SERVICES CHRONICLE) ,MANORAMA YEAR BOOK REGULARLY AS FOR PRELIMS AND I M COMFORTABLE WITH THE PRELIMS PAPER2 (CSAT) AND SO I HAVE TO FOCUS MORE ON GS PAPER1 FOR PRELIMS
AND SO FOR THAT I HAVE TO PREPARE THE FULL SYLLABUS:
Paper I – (200 marks) Duration : Two
hours
1. Current events of national and international
importance.
2. History of India and Indian National
Movement.
3.Indian and World Geography – Physical,
Social, Economic Geography of
India and the World.
4.Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution,
Political System, Panchayati
Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
5.Economic and Social Development -
Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion,
Demographics, Social Sector
initiatives, etc.
6.General issues on Environmental
Ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate
Change – that do not require subject
specialisation
7. General Science.
SO SIR SHOULD I PREPARE ONE SUBJECT AT A TIME OR MORE SUBJECTS ALONG WITH NEWSPAPERS AND MAGAZINES AND SIR FOR
Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution,
Political System, Panchayati
Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.(20%)
I M GOING TO READ TWO BOOKS
1)Constitution of India by P.M Bakshi and
2) Our Constitution by Subhash Kashyap
SO SHOULD I READ =>• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard PARALLEL WITH THESE BOOKS OR SHOULD I COMPLETE NCERTS OF POLITICS 1st AND THEN THESE TWO BOOKS(P.M BAKSHI AND Subhash Kashyap) AS I HAVE NOT STARTED YET….I M GOING TO START AS A FRESHER ……AND ALSO TELL ME ABOUT THE NCERTS i.e.
OLD BOOKS OR NEW BOOKS???
SO ADVICE ME……..SIR…..SHOULD I COMPLETE ONE SUBJECT/TOPIC FIRST AND THEN START OTHER SUBJECT/TOPIC….AND I M COMFORTABLE WITH LAST TOPIC\SUBJECT i.e. 7th General Science….
………………………………………………..WAITING FOR UR REPLY…..:)
i m not in a state to afford coaching classes……do you have any scholarship scheme.can revert on james007acosta@aol.com
Dear Sir,
Are Technical/Science stream optional subjects loosing there weightage? As, I am not much into non technical subjects like Political Science, Law, Economics etc , So it might be clear cut disadvantage for students from engineering/science background & students who have had prior studies in these subjects will have edge over other candidates. I am not much afraid of non technical subjects, its just i would rather prefer Maths, Physics or Chemistry on the ground of my interest & qualifications.
Exactly, by what time UPSC is expected to announce changes in pattern? So that my further preparation stay on the right track & what are the odds of removal of technical subjects ?
Thank you.
Dear Hitendra,
After introducing change at the Preliminary level of the exam (inclusion of Aptitude paper in place of an optional subject), UPSC is contemplating bringing changes at the level of the Mains examination as well. It is seriously examining the proposal of including compulsory papers (the idea of compulsory papers is to test all aspirants on a level playing field and in the syllabus/subject matter which is relevant with the job profile of civil servant) in place of optional papers. All optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers for all. Changes could be incorporated from the year 2013 or later. Basically, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
RESPECTED SIR,
I AM 25YRS OLD AND PREPARING FOR CIVIL SERVICES, COMMITTEE SUGGESTED SYLLABUS ADOPTED BY MY STATE MAHARASHTRA SO I STARTED PREPARING ACCORDING TO IT, SO WHEN WILL UPSC ADOPT THAT COMMITTEE SYLLABUS? AT LEAST WILL IT ADOPT IN YEAR 2014? BECAUSE ITS TOO IMPORTANT FOR PREPARATION, AND DO YOU HAVE ANY BREAKING NEWS ACCORDING TO IT VIA YOUR CONTACTS? SO PLEASE GUIDE ME, THANK YOU…
Dear Aniruddha,
It is being strongly believed by everyone that there would be no change this year (2013) because of the way the calendar of examination (2013) looks.
Even though UPSC has not made any change in the date-sheet/duration over which it conducts the various papers of the Mains examination (which goes to suggest that there might not be any change in the Mains exam) it has pushed back the date at which Mains commences every year by a month (which could suggest that UPSC is buying time to push for changes).
Again, nothing can be said because UPSC has not cleared anything yet. We’ll all have to wait to hear something officially from UPSC. In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change, it should notify it in public domain soon enough (maybe in October/November). Worst case scenario could also be beginning next year or at the time of notification itself.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir , i think there will be no change for 2013 mains pattern as the time table 2013 requies 21 days for writting mains exam
Yes Sundeep,
It is being believed that there would be no change this year because of the way the calendar looks (however, the Mains stage has been pushed back by 1 month) . In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change, it should notify it in public domain soon enough (maybe in October/November).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,
upsc has extended date of mains 2013 in november does it signify that change in the mains is going to happen this year…
waiting for ur reply
your respected
anmol kamble
Dear Anmol,
Even though UPSC has not made any change in the date-sheet/duration over which it conducts the various papers of the Mains examination (which goes to suggest that there might not be any change in the Mains exam) it has pushed back the date at which Mains commences every year by a month (which could suggest that UPSC is buying time to push for changes).
Again, nothing can be said because UPSC has not cleared anything yet. we’ll all have to wait to hear something officially from UPSC.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear sir, I had appeared in assistant provident fund exam on 23rd september and my accurate scor is 54 after negative. sir, is any chance to pass this exam? please tell me pssibility of cut off marks. i belong to sc category. i belive in your idea……..thanks sir! i m waiting for ur precious ideas.
Dear Rahul,
We do not keep track of exams other than Civil Services Exam conducted by UPSC. Therefore, we would not be able to advise you on the cut off of Assistant provident fund exam.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
CURRENTLY I M GOING THROUGH NEWSPAPERS(THE HINDU AND TIMES OF INDIA) AND MAGAZINE (CIVIL SERVICES CHRONICLE) ,MANORAMA YEAR BOOK REGULARLY AS FOR PRELIMS AND I M COMFORTABLE WITH THE PRELIMS PAPER2 (CSAT) AND SO I HAVE TO FOCUS MORE ON GS PAPER1 FOR PRELIMS
AND SO FOR THAT I HAVE TO PREPARE THE FULL SYLLABUS:
Paper I – (200 marks) Duration : Two
hours
1. Current events of national and international
importance.
2. History of India and Indian National
Movement.
3.Indian and World Geography – Physical,
Social, Economic Geography of
India and the World.
4.Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution,
Political System, Panchayati
Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
5.Economic and Social Development -
Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion,
Demographics, Social Sector
initiatives, etc.
6.General issues on Environmental
Ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate
Change – that do not require subject
specialisation
7. General Science.
SO SIR SHOULD I PREPARE ONE SUBJECT AT A TIME OR MORE SUBJECTS ALONG WITH NEWSPAPERS AND MAGAZINES AND SIR FOR
Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution,
Political System, Panchayati
Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.(20%)
I M GOING TO READ TWO BOOKS
1)Constitution of India by P.M Bakshi and
2) Our Constitution by Subhash Kashyap
SO SHOULD I READ =>• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard PARALLEL WITH THESE BOOKS OR SHOULD I COMPLETE NCERTS OF POLITICS 1st AND THEN THESE TWO BOOKS(P.M BAKSHI AND Subhash K.) AND ALSO TELL ME ABOUT THE NCERTS i.e.
OLD BOOKS OR NEW BOOKS???
SO ADVICE ME……..SIR…..SHOULD I COMPLETE ONE SUBJECT/TOPIC FIRST AND THEN START OTHER SUBJECT/TOPIC………
………………………………………………..WAITING FOR UR REPLY…..:)
RESPECTED SIR,
DOES NIVAGEKAR COMMITTEE SUBMITTED THEIR REPORT TO GOVERNMENT ABOUT UPSC MAINS EXAM SYLLABUS CHANGE?
No Vinay, UPSC has given no intimation about that yet.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Respected Sir/Madam,
I am persuing my B.Tech final year i want to give an attempt for civil service for 2014 notification so what material or books should i read in order to prepare for 2014 notification as the pattern is changing sir please kindly can you provide the details.
Dear Srija,
UPSC thus far has not given any formal indication of the implementation of the new pattern in Mains examination. The pattern could be changed from 2013, 2014 or even later.
In this scenario, I suggest that you start your preparation, in the time being, in the compulsory papers of the exam which are General Studies (Pre-cum-Mains), Aptitude (Pre) and Essay writing. Once you are through with that, and in case UPSC has still not cleared this ambiguity of pattern change, you pick up such optionals which are complimentary with the syllabus of General Studies and the knowledge in which should be tested even in the changed pattern of the exam. Consider optionals like Political Sc, Public Ad, Sociology, Geography, etc.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir i am 29 yrs old now can i sit in ias 2013. i am from general caste
Dear Samyarup,
According to UPSC you should not have completed/attained 30 years of age as on 1st August of the year in which appearing for the exam.
So, if your 30th birthday falls after 1st Aug 2013 (which means that as on 1st Aug 2013 you will still be 29), then you will be eligible to appear in 2013 examination.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir
whether changes for civil services 2013 will also effect upsc pre for 2013
No. The changes are being contemplated for only the Mains examination. The Preliminary Examination was changed in year 2011.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir
whether proposed changes in 2013 will also include changes in civil services prel 2013
No. The changes are being contemplated for only the Mains examination. The Preliminary Examination was changed in year 2011.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear sir
I have cleared civil services prelim 2012 in second attempt and now ready for mains. Should i continue sly prepare for 2013 or have to wait 1 year (wait for new pattern).
Dear Lakshandra,
Do not wait for the new syllabus. Just pick up your optionals in a manner that the knowledge gained/acquired in them does not go completely waste in case the new pattern is introduced. Even if you are confused about optional subjects, do not stop preparation of General Studies and Essay of the Mains exam.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
CURRENTLY I M GOING THROUGH NEWSPAPERS(THE HINDU AND TIMES OF INDIA) AND MAGAZINE (CIVIL SERVICES CHRONICLE) ,MANORAMA YEAR BOOK REGULARLY AS FOR PRELIMS AND SO I HAVE TO FOCUS MORE ON GS PAPER1 FOR PRELIMS
AND SO FOR THAT I HAVE TO PREPARE THE FULL SYLLABUS.
SO SIR SHOULD I PREPARE ONE SUBJECT AT A TIME OR MORE SUBJECTS ALONG WITH NEWSPAPERS AND MAGAZINES AND SIR FOR
Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution,
Political System, Panchayati
Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.(20%)
SO SHOULD I READ =>• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard PARALLEL WITH OTHER POLITICS BOOKS OR SHOULD I COMPLETE NCERTS OF POLITICS 1st AND THEN OTHER BOOKS AND ALSO TELL ME ABOUT THE NCERTS i.e.
OLD BOOKS OR NEW BOOKS???
SO ADVICE ME……..SIR…..SHOULD I COMPLETE ONE SUBJECT/TOPIC FIRST AND THEN START OTHER SUBJECT/TOP…PLZ DO REPLY SIR………:)
Dear Anil,
1) Refer to the NCERT old versions in Geography and History and new versions in the rest (Eco, Pol Sc, General Science, etc).
2) Pick up one or two themes at a time and complete them from thoroughly.
3) Refer to our study material along with NCERT books and special editions of Pratiyogita Darpan in Geography, History, Indian Economics and Indian Polity.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
when will change in upsc mains be declared ?
if i am an average++ engineering student,passed it this year, want to start my preparations now with humanities as options..how much realistic it in context of 2013 exam?
Dear Ankit,
1) See, the syllabus in UPSC’s Civil Services Examination is vast. It is normally found that it takes between 1 – 1.5 years to effectively cover the entire syllabus (from the perspective of cracking the examination). This is wherein the aspirant is dedicated towards the goal and spends quality time (6 – 8 hours) studying consistently over that period of time.
2) If you are completely afresh to civil services, then maybe seriously targeting 2014 would be a better strategy. However, even in that case you should start immediately with the preparation.
3) Regarding taking 2013 attempt: See, an attempt is counted only if you appear in the exam. That does not hold you back from filling the application form. You should start preparation immediately. You can also fill up the application form and evaluate your preparation right before the Preliminary Examination. In case you feel prepared and ready to handle 2013 you can go and give your first attempt, or else do not go and continue with preparation for 2014.
Also, General category students are eligible to appear at the exam 4 times uptill 30 years of age. Age is calculated as on 1st August of the year in which appearing for the exam. You should not have completed 30 years as on 1st Aug of that year. So, for instance, if you were born on 1st Jan 1987, then you can appear at the exam only till 2016 (not in 2017 because as on 1st Aug 2017 you would have attained 30 years of age and therefore not eligible for 2017); which means that if you start now you have exactly 4 attempts in 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016. In this case you can very well go ahead, give the 2013 chance as well and take hands on experience of the exam.
4) Considering 2014: Initiate preparation in all the compulsory papers of the exam which are both the papers of Prelims (Paper I and Paper II) and General Studies and Essay of the Mains.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir my name is shravan I am from bangalore, I am in bit of dilemma in deciding to go to Delhi for preparation for IAS or is it better to stay at home only for preparation, can anyone one pls suggest if going there will help me more than here….
Dear Shravan,
Generally speaking, all aspirants prefer to come to Delhi for Civil Services Preparation because of the availability of expert and quality coaching/guidance here. The idea is to get quality guidance and right direction. Even after that, everything rests on candidates and their desire to make the most of whatever resources are available to them.
Secondly, because majority candidates come to Delhi to prepare for this exam, and many of them reside together in hostels, the competitive atmosphere thus created pushes aspirants to work even harder and fosters an environment of discussions and learning.
Coming down to Delhi is not necessary. If you have access to right guidance in Bangalore then there will be no need to come to Delhi.
All the best,
Rau’s IAS
sir
according to 2nd arc report age criteria for civil services should be between 21 – 25 but upsc have not done this till now . do you think upsc will reduce age limit for civil services 2013 in view that they have extended upsc mains for one month and also if arun nigavikar commitee suggests that age for civil services should be reduced
Sir,
Is strongly feel there will be a change in sylabus in mains 2013. One indication is that the mains exam is scheduled on NOV instead of oct unlike in 2012 mains.
Dear Gagan,
It is being strongly believed by everyone that there would be no change this year (2013) because of the way the calendar of examination (2013) looks.
Even though UPSC has not made any change in the date-sheet/duration over which it conducts the various papers of the Mains examination (which goes to suggest that there might not be any change in the Mains exam) it has pushed back the date at which Mains commences every year by a month (which could suggest that UPSC is buying time to push for changes).
Again, nothing can be said because UPSC has not cleared anything yet. We’ll all have to wait to hear something officially from UPSC. In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change, it should notify it in public domain soon enough (maybe in October/November). Worst case scenario could also be beginning next year or at the time of notification itself.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
plz tell me about change in pattern in ias & upto what date it will implement so i can start my preparation accn to new patern
Dear Rahul,
After introducing change at the Preliminary level of the exam (inclusion of Aptitude paper in place of an optional subject), UPSC is contemplating bringing changes at the level of the Mains examination as well. It is seriously examining the proposal of including compulsory papers (the idea of compulsory papers is to test all aspirants on a level playing field and in the syllabus/subject matter which is relevant with the job profile of civil servant) in place of optional papers. All optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers for all. Changes could be incorporated from the year 2013 or later. Basically, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir/Madam,
Last year I had filled the entrance form and failed to appear in the examination. Is that considered my 1st attempt or I have still have 3 attempts valid?
Dear Ananya,
Attempt is counted only if you appear for the exam. Not only upon filling the application form. You have all your attempts available to you.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
gud evening sir/mam…m doing BSC chem 4m DU,2nd yr..i hv already started preparing for ias…my main subjects wud be geog n psychology…so m putting more light on dese two..plz guide me till wen i wud be eligible. DO RAU provides weekend batches??
Dear Deepti,
1) We provide weekend classes in the compulsory papers of the exam. Thus, our weekend batch will cover both the papers of Pre exam (Paper I and Paper II respectively) and both the compulsory papers of Mains exam (General Studies and Essay). The last weekend batch for this year will commence from 20th October 2012. Details of the same are listed at – http://www.rauias.com/weeken_batch.php
2) Eligibility conditions – http://www.rauias.com/eligibility.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir/Madam,
I am engineering graduate but i have no interest in my engineering subjects(for mains optional). i want to opt History or Geography or Public Administration. So I would like to know out of these 3 which 2 subjects shoud I opt.
I am preparing for CSE-2013, plz tell me about change in pattern in CSE(Mains) & upto what date it will implement so i can start my preparation according to new pattern.
Thanx..
Dear Sandeep,
1) Since you come from engg/science background, I’d suggest that you keep subject which are more conceptual than theoretical. I’d suggest you keep Geo and Pub Ad (these are also the subjects which majority students from science background feel comfortable with and opt for in Civil Services).
2) After introducing change at the Preliminary level of the exam (inclusion of Aptitude paper in place of an optional subject), UPSC is contemplating bringing changes at the level of the Mains examination as well. It is seriously examining the proposal of including compulsory papers (the idea of compulsory papers is to test all aspirants on a level playing field and in the syllabus/subject matter which is relevant with the job profile of civil servant) in place of optional papers. All optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers for all.
However, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet.
It is being strongly believed by everyone that there would be no change this year (2013) because of the way the calendar of examination (2013) looks.
Again, nothing can be said because UPSC has not cleared anything yet. We’ll all have to wait to hear something officially from UPSC. In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change, it should notify it in public domain soon enough (maybe in November). Worst case scenario could also be beginning next year or at the time of notification itself.
But, do not wait for UPSC to clear the air. Start your preparation in Prelims, General Studies (M) and Public Ad (M).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,
is it expected that as the state pcs have increased their upper age limit to 40 years from 35 years,upsc will also increase its upper age limit??
also clarify about no. of attempts,will they increase????
No Amit,
Age or number of attempts in Civil Services Exam will not increase. There is no such talks going on at the moment.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hello Sir/Madam,
I am planning to appear for the CSE 2013 but as I am in Mumbai there is no environment to prepare for the CSE.(I am a Hindi Medium candidate).
Materials are available but don’t know which one to select?
Could you please advise me where can i get those ncert books in hindi medium?
The Hindu is not available in Mumbai but somehow i have managed to get that from Chennai(My paper distributor provides me).
Is there no other news paper in Hindi which is helpful for CSE?
people are saying that there will be change in 2013 CSE main which is effecting the preparation a lot…..how to get over with this problem?
My optional subjects will be Public Ad. & Geography.
Kindly suggest me some books for the same which are helpful for CSE 2013.
Any other suggestion is welcomed.
Kindly reply?
Regard’s,
Maneesh Chaubey.
Dear Maneesh,
1) For study material – Do not refer to different resources. Refer to NCERT books along with our study material.
2) Any book shop which sells school books.
3) Dainik Jagran, Dainik Hindustan
4) After introducing change at the Preliminary level of the exam (inclusion of Aptitude paper in place of an optional subject), UPSC is contemplating bringing changes at the level of the Mains examination as well. It is seriously examining the proposal of including compulsory papers (the idea of compulsory papers is to test all aspirants on a level playing field and in the syllabus/subject matter which is relevant with the job profile of civil servant) in place of optional papers. All optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers for all. Changes could be incorporated from the year 2013 or later. However, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet.
It is being strongly believed by everyone that there would be no change this year (2013) because of the way the calendar of examination (2013) looks.
But, nothing can be said because UPSC has not cleared anything yet. We’ll all have to wait to hear something officially from UPSC. In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change, it should notify it in public domain soon enough (maybe November). Worst case scenario could also be beginning next year or at the time of notification itself.
5) Your optional subjects are good and will be helpful even in case the pattern changes in times to come.
6) Refer to our study material. Our study material is prepared primarily with the objective of helping students clear/crack the civil services exam. It is prepared in accordance with the civil services syllabus and upsc’s pattern of question papers. Our material is comprehensive and exhaustive. If followed properly, it would prepare you thoroughly for the exam. Also, a list of reference books will be provided with our study material in case you want to refer to more resources.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,
till now much more conversation is done but at present what is the status of changes of mains pattern in 2013 it wouid be great ful if you give me a reply positively.And one more thing sir if it would not be changed in 2013 then we are expecting that it would be done in 2014.so am i right sir that i have mentioned above.
Dear Teja,
After introducing change at the Preliminary level of the exam (inclusion of Aptitude paper in place of an optional subject), UPSC is contemplating bringing changes at the level of the Mains examination as well. It is seriously examining the proposal of including compulsory papers (the idea of compulsory papers is to test all aspirants on a level playing field and in the syllabus/subject matter which is relevant with the job profile of civil servant) in place of optional papers. All optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers for all.
Basically, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet. We’ll all have to wait to hear something officially from UPSC. In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change in 2013, it should notify it in public domain soon enough (maybe in November). Worst case scenario could also be beginning next year or at the time of notification itself.
However, it is being believed by everyone that there would be no change this year (2013) because of the way the calendar of examination (2013) looks.
In case it is not changed in 2013, the it is possible that it is changed in 2014 or 2015. It all depends upon UPSC.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
gud evening sir, i want know about coming civils 2013 any changes wil happen weather optinal sub is there or not can give me a reply for this
Dear Ratnasharmila,
After introducing change at the Preliminary level of the exam (inclusion of Aptitude paper in place of an optional subject), UPSC is contemplating bringing changes at the level of the Mains examination as well. It is seriously examining the proposal of including compulsory papers (the idea of compulsory papers is to test all aspirants on a level playing field and in the syllabus/subject matter which is relevant with the job profile of civil servant) in place of optional papers. All optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers for all.
However, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet.
Also, it is being strongly believed by everyone that there would be no change this year (2013) because of the way the calendar of examination (2013) looks.
But, nothing can be said because UPSC has not cleared anything yet. We’ll all have to wait to hear something officially from UPSC. In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change, it should notify it in public domain soon enough (maybe in November). Worst case scenario could also be beginning next year or at the time of notification itself.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
what are the most probable changes in IAS prelims cum mains syllabus??
when will the changes occur ??
Dear Mansi,
After introducing change at the Preliminary level of the exam (inclusion of Aptitude paper in place of an optional subject), UPSC is contemplating bringing changes at the level of the Mains examination as well. It is seriously examining the proposal of including compulsory papers (the idea of compulsory papers is to test all aspirants on a level playing field and in the syllabus/subject matter which is relevant with the job profile of civil servant) in place of optional papers. All optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers for all.
Basically, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet. We’ll all have to wait to hear something officially from UPSC. In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change in 2013, it should notify it in public domain soon enough (maybe in November). Worst case scenario could also be beginning next year or at the time of notification itself.
However, it is being believed by everyone that there would be no change this year (2013) because of the way the calendar of examination (2013) looks.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
I have not started preparation for the 2013 civil services exam till now. I have recently decided to take up the exam but after initial research, I see everyone suggesting starting preparation at least 1 year earlier. Do I have sufficient time to prepare from now to attempt the 2013 examination or should I wait for one more year and not waste this attempt? Your suggestion would be most appreciated. Thank you for your time.
Also, do I solely concentrate on prelims for now or do I need to take into consideration mains as well?
Dear Sir,
Can you please reply and steer me in the right direction?
Thank you.
Dear Satya,
1) See, the syllabus in UPSC’s Civil Services Examination is vast. It is normally found that it takes between 1 – 1.5 years to effectively cover the entire syllabus (from the perspective of cracking the examination). This is wherein the aspirant is dedicated towards the goal and spends quality time (6 – 8 hours) studying consistently over that period of time.
2) If you are completely afresh to civil services, then maybe seriously targeting 2014 would be a better strategy. However, even in that case you should start immediately with the preparation.
3) Regarding taking 2013 attempt: See, an attempt is counted only if you appear in the exam. That does not hold you back from filling the application form. You should start preparation immediately. You can also fill up the application form and evaluate your preparation right before the Preliminary Examination. In case you feel prepared and ready to handle 2013 you can go and give your first attempt, or else do not go and continue with preparation for 2014.
Also, General category students are eligible to appear at the exam 4 times uptill 30 years of age. Age is calculated as on 1st August of the year in which appearing for the exam. You should not have completed 30 years as on 1st Aug of that year. So, for instance, if you were born on 1st Jan 1987, then you can appear at the exam only till 2016 (not in 2017 because as on 1st Aug 2017 you would have attained 30 years of age and therefore not eligible for 2017); which means that if you start now you have exactly 4 attempts in 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016. In this case you can very well go ahead, give the 2013 chance as well and take hands on experience of the exam.
4) Considering 2014: Initiate preparation in all the compulsory papers of the exam which are both the papers of Prelims (Paper I and Paper II) and General Studies and Essay of the Mains.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Thank you so much sir. I really appreciate your feedback and response.
Hi sir,
I have one basic question about IAS mains exam,Can I give optional subjects in english and GS subjects in marathi?Please guide me for the same. Thanks in advance
No Abhjit, You have to choose one medium of instructions for attempting all the papers at the Mains examination. However, you can choose to appear in interview with a different medium.
For eg, you can choose to attempt all the papers at Mains in English and choose to appear in Interview in Marathi.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hello Sir,
My question is regarding age limit for IAS exam,are there chances of upsc increasing or decreasing the age limit along with the new pattern,and also why there is a diffrence in the age limits for IAS exam and PCS exams.
Thanks
Dear Stephen,
Nothing can be said already on that front (age reduction/attempts) because UPSC has not discussed that in any of the recent discussions/reports/news. As of now, the focus is only on revising the pattern of Mains exam and not bringing any changes in the number of attempts or maximum age eligibility.
On a general note, reducing age limit is a radical change for which UPSC should give sufficient heads up.
There is different age eligibility criteria between UPSC’s Civil services Examination and State PSCs because they are conducted by different authorities (they are separate examinations).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir, it is now widely believed that the proposed new pattern for the mains is unlikely to be implemented, in 2013, from the way the calender appears. If then, can we be certain about the new pattern being implemented in 2014? Although this is purely a hypothetical question, it is rather crucial for me as I need to decide my future course of studies, and the dilemma it entails is too great to be ignored. What is your take on this issue, sir?
Dear Ganreipou,
See, the change in the pattern of recruitment made through Civil Services Examination, which comprised reformatting of the Preliminary as well as the Mains stages of this examination, was first suggested/proposed as part of a YK Alag committee report in 2001.
From then, the first change in Preliminary Examination was executed in 2011.
Therefore, we cannot be sure whether the change will be executed in 2014 if not done already. It is possible that it is executed in 2015 or later. See, we’ll all have to wait to hear about the change officially from UPSC to arrive at any conclusion.
My take is, stay closer to such optional subjects, knowledge in which will remain relevant even in the changed pattern of the examination. That is the only way to play safe. And the impact of change will be felt by everyone equally. Thus, you (or for that matter anyone else) will not be at any disadvantageous position vis a vis other aspirants.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hello Sir !
I am Vijeta .I have completed masters in German Language. I wanted to know if I don’t consider German Language in any of my preparations for upsc exams and take other subjects will it make any difference? I would also like to know if your institute offer any coaching facility for foreign languages.
Thank you !
Dear Vijeta,
All aspirants (irrespective of their educational background) are free to pick any 2 subjects from the UPSC’s list of optional subjects. You might have a bachelors degree/background in German lit/language but you can very well go ahead and choose optional subjects such as Public Ad, Geography, Sociology etc.
We offer coaching in only English and Hindi medium (and no coaching for any literature subjects).
Coaching is offered in the areas/subject listed at the following link- http://www.rauias.com/syllabus_main.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
namaste sir, sir i like take your coaching for ias. Please tell me your tution and hostel fees and about your hostel
Dear Manvi,
We conduct two sessions a year and each session if of 5 months in duration.
(A) The June session : goes on till October
(B) November session : goes on till March of the following year
It is recommended that the overall preparation be completed over both the sessions. Now, we conduct different batches for compulsory papers and optional subjects. Thus, we conduct the following two types of batches:
(i) GS Batch which covers all the compulsory papers: Prelim (Paper I – General Studies & Paper II -CSAT) and Main Exam (General Studies & Essay)
(ii) Different optional subject batches in Economics, Pol Sc, Pub Ad, Sociology….. etc
So, if for instance you want to opt for Pub Ad and Sociology as your optional subjects for the Mains examination, then you have to study in the following batches with us to complete the entire coaching:
(i) GS batch – Fee Rs 55,000
(ii) Pub Ad batch – Fee Rs 35,000
(iii) Sociology batch – Fee Rs 35,000
Hostel facility is available and the cost ranges between 8000-10000/month (depending upon hostel).
The new session will start from 23rd November 2012. Details are available here – http://www.rauias.com/november.php
Do feel free to call and speak with our counselors should you require more details/clarification, etc.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir, Actually am from Engineering Back-grounded Student , After all with my Ambition to be an Officer , i resigned to my Dream Company too. So I had started my Preparation For CSAT-2k13 this year with Political Science (started the P.S Prep) and History ( not yet fixed and started the History prep) as Optionals, But am planning to take Sociology as the second optional instead of History. But As a ThunderBolt i heard that Political Science and Sociology are gonna be Removed from List of Optionals Is that True???
?? Please help me out…from this…
at present am taking GS and One optional ( Pol.Sci) coaching.
With this Appropriate information on changes i am unable to concentrate on the CSAT, what ever the changes gonna be take, will that going to effect my Strategy?? after 2013 regarding the optionals??? so What about about the optional i had taken i? should i drain those subjs from ARMS
Dear Vishnutej,
1) Pol Sc, Sociology and History, all three are good optional subjects. If you like Sociology more, then go with Sociology. See, after strategically figuring out such optionals which are successful, scoring and have overlap with the syllabus of General Studies (Pol sc, Pub Ad, Sociology, Geo, Histry, etc), it is important to evaluate your personal interest. Because it is your interest in a particular area which will make that subject work for you.
2) Now, after introducing change at the Preliminary level of the exam (inclusion of Aptitude paper in place of an optional subject), UPSC is contemplating bringing changes at the level of the Mains examination as well. It is seriously examining the proposal of including compulsory papers (the idea of compulsory papers is to test all aspirants on a level playing field and in the syllabus/subject matter which is relevant with the job profile of civil servant) in place of optional papers. All optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers for all. Changes could be incorporated from the year 2013 or later. Basically, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet.
3) Subjects like Pol Sc, Pub Ad, Sociology, Geography, Economics, etc will be beneficial even in the changed pattern.
You have picked up good optionals (Pol Sc and sociology). Concentrate on General Studies (Pre-cum-Mains), Essay (M), Political Sc (M) and Paper II(P) for now. And do not worry too much about the change because whenever and whatever the change will be will affect one all equally.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
UPSC has announced the date for CS mains to be 8 November as given on its website. earlier exams used to take place in october then why this sudden change??
Is it going to bring about the changes from next year?
Regards
Aadarsh Prakash
Dear Sir/Madam
Being a BE graduate which optional subject I should choose with Pub adm, Geography or Sociology. One of my senior cleared CS-2011 and got into IAS suggested me to take Sociology instead of Geography as geo comprises of huge syllabus whereas sociology has less syllabus and one could score decent marks in decent time. I went through the socio syllabus and came to a conclusion that I have to by heart most of the points than to understand it. I have deep interest in Geography and it is easy to understand and learn.Your suggession is needed.
Regards
Swapnil
Dear Rau’s Team,
I am a working professional with the MNC have been working from the last 6 years in chandigarh have now made my mind to appear for the Civil Services and the state level PSC exams.I am 29 Year old right now and domicilied of J&K.
I would like to know how start i start preparing for the exam amidst working in a private sector.I have done MBA would like to take suggestion with regards to the subjects.Should i opt for Management along with Political Science.Till now i have not started preparing for the exam ,really looking forward to the suggestion from your side how to start with.
Also is there any help Raus’s can offer to a working professional for the preparation.
Looking forward to the valuable feedback from your side.
Regards,
Vikas Bharti
9988854276
Dear Vikas,
1) We offer weekend batches in General Studies (especially for working professionals). However, our weekend programs are available at only Delhi and Jaipur. Read – http://www.rauias.com/weeken_batch.php
2) We also offer study material (books) + test series (online) for aspirants who cannot come down to the institute to participate in Personal Gudance Program. In case you plan to self study for the exam, then you can purchase our relevant study material. Read – http://www.rauias.com/postalguidance.php
3) If you are management student, then pick up Public Administration.
Management vs Pub Ad
Management is a vast subject and not particularly helpful in the General Studies paper. In case you like Management as a subject (or have read Management as part of BBA/MBA) then you can opt for Public Administration. Your knowledge in Management will help you to pick up and absorb Public Ad easily. Public Ad is a simple and concise subject and comprises of knowledge that is a must in case you aspire to get into civil services. On top of that, some syllabus of Pub Ad (related to Indian Polity) is also covered in General Studies paper which makes this subject complimentary with General Studies paper.
If you pick Pub Ad then you would not be able to pick up Political Science (as the nature of these subjects is similar and therefore UPSC does not allow them to be clubbed together). Along with Pub Ad you could consider subjects like Geography, Sociology etc. However, first of all read our blog and related Q&As about optional subject selection from – http://www.rausias.com/blog/?cat=55
4) Basic Approach
i) One needs to keep in mind the basic fact that if the goal is to reach the highest level of achievement, then one must have not only ample patience for details, but should be able to keep the big picture regarding any theme in one’s mind at the time of study. Thus the preparation strategy is to follow a mix of both micro and macro level approaches. The first step in this direction is the understanding of the syllabus. One must look at the syllabus closely and in detail. After that, one should analyze the past years’ question papers that indicate the important areas, as well as, the real scope of the syllabus. Then comes the next step of apportioning of time depending on the importance and length of each area.
ii) See, the basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 6th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 6th – 12th standard
• Economics: 9th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu, Frontline, Pratiyogita Darpan (Don’t skip reading newspaper and magazines as they are the only effective source for current affairs)
(3) After initial groundwork (going through NCERT books and getting in the mode of reading newspapers daily), you should take professional help to devise a targeted study plan/approach to crack the exam in accordance with UPSC’s format and pattern of question papers.
(4) Make a time schedule/ time table that helps you cover the entire syllabus. (i) in the most efficient manner, and (ii) in accordance with the real scope of the syllabus.
(5) Follow an integrated approach to cover the syllabus of General Studies at the Preliminary and the Mains level.
(6) Have patience (syllabus is vast), dedication and perseverance (be consistent) and pursue your target with the attitude of a winner.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,
is it neccesary to join ias coaching classes for the prepration of the civil services? and can it be possible to clear this exam without taking any coaching classes and doing study at home with study material and ncert books?
Dear Piyush,
Whether coaching or not (In GS or optional subject) is completely your decision. Yes, coaching certainly plays a vital role. It helps in providing the right orientation for the students and save valuable time in the process. They also provide information on such themes which are not easily accessible to the students. The most important role is the utility of “just in time” management and help the reorganisation of information hitherto gathered by the students (i.e. “just in case” collection of information). Also, it provides a learning and testing environment for the students which acts like a pace maker and keeps students working hard.
Not that you cannot succeed by self study alone. Essentially, even after coaching if a student does not self study then there is no way he/she can get success. Yes, certainly with no help, you’ll have to study by yourself, remain motivated, prepare a time table to keep yourself on track and test yourself periodically.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
“Tech Reporter” a premier digital magazine (free) on science & Technology helps for civil services preparation. Students can make use of it. We wish to thank his honourable Shri Rao and his team
sir,
I am studying b-tech ,i want to take prelims in 2014.I want to start my preparation from now.How i should start preparation.What are the books & magazines to be prefered for prelims.
Please help…
Thankyou
Dear Sri,
The basic guideline at the start of the preparations for both Preliminary and Main Examination is to read NCERT books on related subjects. There is no substitute for them. One should refrain in the beginning from reading guidebooks, as they load you with information, but with very little concept.
NCERT Books: Social Studies
• Civics: 6th – 10th standard
• Political Science: 11th and 12th standard
• Geography: 11th – 12th standard
• Sociology: 11th and 12th standard
• History: 11th – 12th standard
• Economics: 11th – 12th standard (latest edition)
NCERT Books: General Science
• Physics, Chemistry, Biology: 9th and 10th Standards
For Current Affairs and General Knowledge (make a habit of reading newspapers and magazines regularly and analytically. The events of National and International which effect human lives at large are important from General Studies point of view)
• The Hindu (newspaper), Frontline, Pratiyogita Darpan (journals)
After initial groundwork (going through NCERT books and getting in the mode of reading newspapers daily), you should take professional help (refer to targeted study material, take classes, appear in test series, etc etc) to devise a targeted study plan/approach to crack the exam in accordance with UPSC’s format and pattern of question papers.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir now october about to end is der any pattern change or jus carried forwarded to next coming years???its been disaster abt d rumors etc…thank u:)
Dear Karthik,
No news still.
It is being strongly believed by everyone that there would be no change this year (2013) because of the way the calendar of examination (2013) looks.
Yet, since UPSC has not said anything officially, nothing can be said with certainty. We’ll all have to wait to hear something officially from UPSC. In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change, it should notify it in public domain soon enough (maybe November/December). Worst case scenario could also be beginning next year or at the time of notification itself.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hi sir,
I completed my B.sc Computer Science in UG. and am doing MS software engg 2nd year. am i eligible to write UPSC exam. ? please help me on this issue
Thanks in Advance
Sindhu Ravi
Dear Sindhu,
All pass graduates (from any stream) who possess a graduation degree recognized by Union Grants Commission (all major national and international universities and colleges are recognized by UGC) are eligible to appear in the exam.
Read eligibility criteria – http://www.rauias.com/eligibility.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
what should i refer for science and technology and for india n world ?? (GS MAINS)
hello sir,
i want to ask that there is any change in ias mains exam regarding optional subjects i.e. is this right that from this year there will be only few subjects related to arts field not to engineering field ???
nidhi gupta
mnit ,,jaipur
Dear Nidhi,
After introducing change at the Preliminary level of the exam (inclusion of Aptitude paper in place of an optional subject), UPSC is contemplating bringing changes at the level of the Mains examination as well. It is seriously examining the proposal of including compulsory papers (the idea of compulsory papers is to test all aspirants on a level playing field and in the syllabus/subject matter which is relevant with the job profile of civil servant) in place of optional papers. All optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers for all. Changes could be incorporated from the year 2013 or later. However, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet.
It is being strongly believed by everyone that there would be no change this year (2013) because of the way the calendar of examination (2013) looks.
But, nothing can be said because UPSC has not cleared anything yet. We’ll all have to wait to hear something officially from UPSC. In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change, it should notify it in public domain soon enough (maybe November). Worst case scenario could also be beginning next year or at the time of notification itself.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir
plz tell me that pattern will be chang of mains examination in upsc in 2013
Dear Kuldeep,
After introducing change at the Preliminary level of the exam (inclusion of Aptitude paper in place of an optional subject), UPSC is contemplating bringing changes at the level of the Mains examination as well. It is seriously examining the proposal of including compulsory papers (the idea of compulsory papers is to test all aspirants on a level playing field and in the syllabus/subject matter which is relevant with the job profile of civil servant) in place of optional papers. All optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers for all. Changes could be incorporated from the year 2013 or later. However, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet.
It is being strongly believed by everyone that there would be no change this year (2013) because of the way the calendar of examination (2013) looks.
But, nothing can be said because UPSC has not cleared anything yet. We’ll all have to wait to hear something officially from UPSC. In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change, it should notify it in public domain soon enough (maybe November). Worst case scenario could also be beginning next year or at the time of notification itself.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
is there any difference between old nd new editions of ncert??
Yes Mansi. There is. Refer to the NCERT old versions in Geography and History and new versions in the rest (Eco, Pol Sc, General Science, etc).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Respected sir, i studing bsc-final in this time. Plese tell me sir which i attemp ias exam. And main exam ke liye (Geo. And pl science) konse author ki book read kru. Plese teel me sir
Dear Poonam,
1) You will be eligible upon completing your final year and also attaining 21 years of age as on 1st August of the year in which appearing for the exam. For ex, in case you will complete your graduation in April/May 2013 and also be 21 years old as on 1st Aug 2013, then you can appear in 2013 examination.
Read – http://www.rauias.com/eligibility.php
2) There are different books which will be relevant for different sections of the paper. My suggestion would be that you rely on NCERT books along with a study material which covers material from all the good resources and prepares you in a focused manner for the exam.
Study Material – http://www.rauias.com/postalguidance.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
respected sir,
my dob was 6/8/1992 i was planning to take the test in 2014 . i planned to take the test 1yr back and i have collected materials & start preparation nearly 2hrs per day . i was completing my b.tech final year . i think that changes will be compulsory for 2014 paper .now should i wait for the notification of changes or else continue my preparation . my optionals are polity ,telugu literature i m not studying telugu literaturein view of ias. i was confused now what should i do
regards,
bharat
sir,
my gs is good but i haven’t chosen my subjects yet. should i wait for change in the pattern or start preparing according to older pattern ?
Dear Srikant,
There is no news yet of any pattern change. And, it is being strongly believed by everyone that there would be no change this year (2013) because of the way the calendar of examination (2013) looks.
You cannot wait in anticipation of a pattern change and not prepare. Pick your optionals wisely (the idea of compulsory papers in place of optional subjects is to test all aspirants on a level playing field and in the syllabus/subject matter which is relevant with the job profile of civil servant; consider such optionals which you feel are relevant to be tested before induction in civil services – Pub Ad, Pol Sc, Geography, Sociology, etc) and start preparing in them now.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
Is it also the case that age and number of attempts will be reduced from 2013 or 2014 onwards? Reason being one put his or her stake accordingly.
Dear Vipul,
Nothing can be said already on that front (age reduction/attempts) because UPSC has not discussed that in any of the recent discussions/reports/news. UPSC has only been discussing about bringing changes in the pattern of the Mains exam (replacing optional subjects by compulsory papers).
As of now, the focus is only on revising the pattern of Mains exam and not bringing any changes in the number of attempts or maximum age eligibility. On a general note, reducing age limit/no. of attempts is a radical change for which UPSC should/would have to give sufficient heads up (there will be whole lot of students who would be taking their 4 attempt this year or for whom this would be the last permissible attempt considering age).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Respected sir,
I have a news form Delhi coaching centers that UPSC is implimenting its new rule for coming 2013 mains exam that there will be a single optional paper and that too will be the subject taken during his/her graduation time and there will be four gs paper and two english compulsory paper and the by UPSC is likly be announced very soon . Any idea sir??????
Dear Sudeep,
UPSC is contemplating reformatting the structure of the Mains examination. It is exploring the idea of removing all optional subjects and have a few compulsory papers instead (3-4 in number). The idea of compulsory papers will be to test all aspirants on a level playing field and in the syllabus/subject matter which is most relevant with the job profile of a civil servant. Therefore it is being speculated that the various themes of the compulsory papers will be derived from the General Studies paper as of now (like Science & Technology, Indian Constitution/Polity, Society and Issues of Social Relevance, International Institutions, etc etc).
There is also this rumor regarding the line of thought that you have mentioned in your query. That there might be a few compulsory papers and one optional subject. However, UPSC has not spoken about this proposal in public domain and therefore nothing can be said with certainty.
In case UPSC plans on bringing about the change in 2013, then it should notify it in public domain soon enough (maybe November end/early December). Worst case scenario could also be beginning next year or at the time of notification itself.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
I am at a very precarious position.. I want to give the IAS exam, but I am already 29. I have never given this exam before. My DOB is 4th October 1983, am I eligible to write the IAS 2013 exam?
Thanks.
Dear Jacob,
According to UPSC, a General Category candidate is eligible to appear at this exam 4 times between 21-30 years of age wherein age is calculated as on 1st of August of the year in which appearing for the exam. One should have attained 21 years of age and should have not have attained 30 years of age as on 1st of Aug of that year.
According to your DOB, you will attain 30 years as on 4th Oct 2013. Which means that you will be 29 years of age as on 1st Aug 2013 and therefore eligible for this attempt.
OBC can take 7 attempts between 21-33 years of age.
SC/ST can take unlimited number of attempts between 21-35 years of age.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Hi rau sir,mai hindi medium se hu.mujhe ias mains 2013 me kaun kaun se aur kitne exam honge,aur kitne number ka hoga,iski jankari chahiye.
Dear Vinod,
Is link pe information padhiye – http://www.rauias.com/mainscheme.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Dear sir,
Is coaching a must for prepration of civil services…?
Dear Niraj,
Whether coaching or not (In GS or optional subject) is completely your decision. Yes, coaching certainly plays a vital role. It helps in providing the right orientation for the students and save valuable time in the process. They also provide information on such themes which are not easily accessible to the students. The most important role is the utility of “just in time” management and help the reorganisation of information hitherto gathered by the students (i.e. “just in case” collection of information). Also, it provides a learning and testing environment for the students which acts like a pace maker and keeps students working hard.
Not that you cannot succeed by self study alone. Essentially, even after coaching if a student does not self study then there is no way he/she can get success. Yes, certainly with no help, you’ll have to study by yourself, remain motivated, prepare a time table to keep yourself on track and test yourself periodically.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir..
will mains syllabus be objective….?
there will be one paper of maths and one paper of g.s as in PRELIMS..with same pattern they will have 2 papers in mains…
as you have describe in your previous post that economic,pub ad ,polity will be in syllabus…will it be as objective or subjective nature.
please reply….
Mains will be subjective.
sir, there is too much confusion on the pattern change. could you clarify on the new pattern change of mains? whether its changing or not?
Dear Avinash,
After introducing change at the Preliminary level of the exam (inclusion of Aptitude paper in place of an optional subject), UPSC is contemplating bringing changes at the level of the Mains examination as well. It is seriously examining the proposal of including compulsory papers (the idea of compulsory papers is to test all aspirants on a level playing field and in the syllabus/subject matter which is relevant with the job profile of civil servant) in place of optional papers. It is being speculated that all optional subjects will be replaced by compulsory papers for all.
Changes could be incorporated from the year 2013 or later. Basically, UPSC has not officially indicated at any date of implementation of changes yet.
It is being believed by everyone that there would be no change this year (2013) because of the way the calendar of examination (2013) looks and because UPSC has not given any direction in this area yet.
However, nothing can yet be said because UPSC has not cleared anything. We’ll all have to wait to hear something officially from UPSC. In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change, it could still do so and intimate in beginning of next year or at the time of notification itself (February).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
Is it necessary to get cabinet approval for the IAS Mains Pattern changes , to come into effect ?
Dear sir i am a serving personal in hyderabad. I am doing grauation first year in public admin, and planning to attempt in cse in 2015. Kindly suggest me the strategy which i should follow to achieve my target in changing exam pattern scenrio. Please advice thank u
When will the govt take final decision on the committee’s report
Dear Kartik,
Nothing can be said on that front. The committee had to submit its report by later in this year but there is no deadline for government to accept the committee’s proposal.
It is being believed by everyone that there would be no change this year (2013) because (i) UPSC has not indicated anything formally yet and(2) because of the way the calendar of examination (2013) looks. Still, nothing can be said because UPSC has not cleared anything yet. We’ll all have to wait to hear something officially from UPSC. In case UPSC still plans on bringing about the change, it can do so at the time of notification itself.
Dear sir,
Where i will get point to point notes to prepare for G. S. paper -I and mains exam for subjects Geography please suggest that is there any classes available for Mathematics in Rau’s Coaching, Lucknow. I am 27 years old Engineer in State Govt. currently posted in Lucknow.
Dear Dharmendra,
1) We do not have any centre in Lucknow. We are only located in Delhi and Jaipur. Beware of fake institutes which use Rau’s in their names.
2) We do not coach in Mathematics.
3) We prepare for General Studies and Geography. Next batch will start from 7th June 2013 – http://www.rauias.com/june.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
SIR ;
I AM PLANNING TO TAKE YOUR POSTAL COURSE FOR CSAT 2013.. HOWEVER I HAVE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:
1. HOW DO WE SEND THE DD ? VIA SPEED POST OR COURIER ??
(ITS NOT MENTIONED IN THE WEBSITE)
2. DO YOU HAVE THE FACILITY OF NET BANKING AVAILABLE FOR PAYMENT OF THE COURSE MATERIAL?
3. IF I HAVE ANY DOUBTS AFTER SUBSCRIPTION REGARDING THE CONCEPTS IN THE SUBJECT… WHOM SHOULD I REFER TO..
THANKING YOU
GUHA
Dear Guha,
1) By which so ever way you feel comfortable. Both courier and speed post are good.
2) No
3) Our postal course is a pure sale of study material. There is no guidance available with it.
http://www.rauias.com/postalguidance.php
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir……..
m a student of engineering …..last year…..
i want to start preparing for civil services……………
i want to appear in 2014 CSE ………..so want to start preparation now………
sir m in a difficult position of what to start preparing for…….either mains or prelims……
because m getting the thing that UPSC will abolish the optionals from 2014 so if i start preparing for mains with the subjects and certainly optionals were not found in mains of 2014 exam it will be a complete vain of all my mains preparation…….
do you have any idea about CSE 2014…….
in other case what is your suggestion for a student like me who want to start preparation ……..
should i start preparing for prelims first from mains aspect or should i stick to the preparation of optionals for mains..??? please help i will be very thankful to you…….
Dear RAU’s Sir,
When is the form for USPC-2013 (Civil Service Exam) expected?.
Apart from The Employment News, where can i see the details for the same
Thanks
Siddhartha
Dear siddhartha,
You can check UPSC’s website under Calender of examination. The application will become available from 2nd or 4th February 2013.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
Is there any update on the IAS pattern lately? Are there any chances of pattern change this year? Please help.
Dear Parth,
No, there has been no news/update by UPSC in that area.
The notification will be released on 2nd Feb 2013. It will also be available on upsc’s website simultaneously. Notification is expected to put a final seal on the status of Mains examination 2013. However, on a general note, since there has been no movement by UPSC yet, it is not expected to bring about any change now either.
Lets see.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir,
Is it possible that even at the notification of February 2nd, UPSC can withhold the information of mains pattern change, saying that it is on the cards and the exact pattern shall be announced, say, after 2 or 3 months later?
Dear Akash,
No. Notification will be the final seal on this years pattern.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
sir,,,m in 3rd year b.tech….i consulted one of my friend taking coaching he said that reading pd or any other magzines is of no use if ur are not planning to give exam under one year..ie..,current affairs of last one years will be of use,,not of last 2 or 3 years,,,,
sir,,what u have to say….
That is correct Sagar. Current Affairs of the last on year are asked in that years examination. But the Civil Services examination is not about information gathered at the last instant. Aspirants who get selected in this examination in the first or the second attempt are those who have knowledge in & understanding of a range of things (rather than just one specialized theme) and have intellectual curiosity to keep themselves abreast of everything important that takes place in their surroundings/universe.
See, gathering facts is different from developing a personality. You need not work on memorizing facts & figures but you (everyone) need to continuously work towards becoming a better and a smarter personality.
Make reading newspaper and one journal a part of your daily activities. Read The Hindu (newspaper) and Frontline or Economist (journals).
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
Sir, although nothing concrete can be assumed until the notification, it is now believed that the change – if it at all comes – will not be affecting this year’s mains examination. Given this fact and considering the need to prepare for the next round of CSE, 2014-15, what do you think is the most judicious way of spending this year? Or what should be the content of one’s preparation for the CSE 2014? Your esteemed advice in this regard would be highly appreciated. Thank you.
sir in some blogs they are saying that this mains surely the syllabus is changing .is it true sir ? pls i need your answer……………….
Dear Amrita,
Nobody in the public domain has any information about the outcome of the Mains pattern in this years examination. These are all speculations or estimations. UPSC is no doubt contemplating bringing about changes but it has declared nothing beyond that. Only the notification (to be released shortly in the month of February) will clear the air around this one.
Regards,
Rau’s IAS
thanks alot sir
thank you sir,,,you have provided me the right direction,,,
sir,,,
according to the new mains pattern the committee has decided to vanish optionals and on their behalf they are deciding to double the content of GS compulsory for all,,,,
sir,,as we know that achieving mastery in any two optionals even when one is not having any knowledge or very new for any candidate,,,,i.e reading optionals is a very huge work it is just next to doing research in them if we go according to the questions asked in the upsc exam,,,
and on the other hand the content of GS is not that much huge and totally incomparable to optionals ,,,,
sir,,,what you have to say in order to advice us…don’t u think the exam might be taking a tough competition on the ground of only GS content.
your advices will be an open door for us,,,,,thank you
Dear Sir,
From the deferring of the notification indefinitely, can we conclude beyond doubts that, the postponing of it is because of some impending changes in the pattern to be implemented this year itself.
Thank You.
Hi Sir, Expecting your reply to the Akash’s comment..
Sir
1. When will the notification come?
2. Will the pattern change?
3. What will be the new pattern?
Is patern for mains changing in 2013
respected sir
i want to prepare for 2017. so, which pattern i should prepare for ias main’s new or old. is there any chances that pattern of mains will be changed upto in 2016? because i am in b.tech 3rd year now. so, in 2015 i will graduated my degree and after that i want to drop 2 years for ias. so, want to appear in 2017 at my first chance .so sir please help me.
Dear Aspirant,
UPSC has not released the 2013 notification yet. Wait for the notification to see if there are any changes.
Hello Sir,
I plan to appear in 2014. The government has again withheld the notification! Is it possible that the new syllabus will not be implemented at all?(I am talking about the remaining papers other than the English paper).