#CareerBytes: Didn't clear UPSC CSE? Improve your chances in next-attempt
The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE), popularly known as the IAS exam, is one of the toughest competitive exams. Cracking the UPSC CSE isn't easy; many spend years preparing to qualify. Clearing the IAS exam in just a few attempts is very difficult. If you are someone who hasn't cleared UPSC CSE this year, here's how to improve your chances in the next attempt.
#1: Don't be disappointed; focus on preparing for next attempt
Those who have not been able to clear UPSC CSE must focus on preparing for their next attempt instead of feeling dejected. They must have a solid plan, put in more hard work, and have an integrated approach to the three stages of the CSE.
Review the previous preparation strategies to identify any flaws
For CSE aspirants, the best way to begin preparation for their next attempt is by reviewing their preparation strategy of previous years. This can help them find any flaws or loopholes in their strategy due to which they might have failed in their previous attempts. Also, this exercise will help them identify what their real strengths and weaknesses are and also rectify any mistakes.
#3: Prepare a solid strategy to crack the exam
After identifying the flaws in their previous strategies and knowing what their strengths are, aspirants must design a new preparation method and strategy. They must create a preparation strategy that suits their study requirements, strengths, weaknesses, pace, etc. to reach their goal.
Relevant knowledge and previous experience of the IAS exam
While preparing for their next attempt, one of the biggest advantages aspirants would have is the relevant knowledge and experience of the IAS exam. Though the exam pattern/format or syllabus might change a bit year to year, the basic topics would almost remain the same. So, the candidate's experience and knowledge accumulated through previous years' preparation would help a lot in acing the exam.
#5: Take mock tests, analyze your performance regularly
Apart from preparation and revision, one must analyze their performance and test the effectiveness of their preparation regularly. For this, candidates can take mock tests and solve sample papers or previous papers. They must accordingly make changes in the preparation strategy to improve their performance.
