Anna Sinha (AIR-112, CSE-21) Strategy
Hi All, Anna Sinha secured AIR-112 in CSE-21 and she did it while pursuing PhD in Economics! Not only that, she also cracked UGC NET JRF and is trained in Classical music as well as Bharatanatyam. Following is her strategy/tips in her own words: Highlights of the interview given at my University, sharing my journey
Achieving the Impossible: Anna Sinha's Remarkable Journey to UPSC Success
In the ever-competitive landscape of the Indian civil services examination, the story of Anna Sinha's remarkable achievement stands out as a testament to perseverance, discipline, and the power of a focused mindset. Despite the challenges of pursuing a PhD in Economics, Anna Sinha secured the impressive rank of AIR-112 in the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2021, showcasing her exceptional abilities and the strategies that propelled her to success.
Anna Sinha's Multifaceted Accomplishments
Anna Sinha's academic and personal achievements are truly remarkable. Not only did she secure a top rank in the coveted UPSC examination, but she also cracked the UGC NET JRF (National Eligibility Test-Junior Research Fellowship) and is trained in the classical arts of Hindustani music and Bharatanatyam. This multifaceted individual has proven that with dedication and a strong work ethic, one can excel in various realms, defying the conventional notion that academic pursuits must be narrowly focused.
Balancing PhD and UPSC Preparation
One of the most striking aspects of Anna Sinha's journey is her ability to juggle the demands of a PhD program in Economics while simultaneously preparing for the UPSC examination. This feat is often considered daunting, as the sheer volume of the UPSC syllabus and the intensity of the preparation process can be overwhelming, even for those who have the luxury of dedicated study time. However, Anna Sinha's determination and strategic approach enabled her to overcome these challenges.
Harnessing the Power of the Brain
In her own words, Anna Sinha emphasized the remarkable capabilities of the human brain, stating, "The brain is a miraculous machine. People who are working/doing PhD - we do not have time on our hands. But your brain can be trained to have laser-sharp focus to finish the syllabus in extremely limited time." This insightful perspective underscores her understanding of the brain's remarkable adaptability and the importance of channeling one's focus and discipline to achieve ambitious goals.
Anna Sinha's Preparation Strategies
Throughout her journey, Anna Sinha shared valuable insights and strategies that contributed to her success in the UPSC examination. These strategies provide a roadmap for aspiring civil servants and serve as an inspiration for those facing similar challenges.
Optimizing Study Resources
One of the key elements of Anna Sinha's approach was her emphasis on keeping her study resources "very limited" and maximizing her revisions. This strategic focus on quality over quantity allowed her to delve deeper into the core concepts and ensure a strong command over the syllabus, despite the time constraints imposed by her PhD work.
Leveraging Interactions and Documentaries
Anna Sinha recognized the immense value of interacting with knowledgeable individuals, such as her parents, senior friends, and teachers, in helping her grasp complex topics better. This approach was particularly helpful in strengthening her understanding of the cultural aspects of ancient and medieval Indian history. For those without access to such personal resources, she recommended making a habit of watching informative documentaries, which can provide valuable perspectives and supplementary knowledge.
Mastering the Art of Answering
When it came to the Mains examination, Anna Sinha stressed the importance of thoroughly analyzing previous years' question papers. She acknowledged that due to her PhD commitments, she had limited time, but she emphasized the crucial nature of this exercise in understanding the format and expectations of the Mains exam.
Showcasing Personality and Hobbies
Anna Sinha's success was not limited to her academic prowess; she also recognized the significance of the personality test in the UPSC interview. By cultivating hobbies such as Bharatanatyam and Hindustani classical music, and being honest about her knowledge and experience in these areas, she was able to showcase her diverse interests and talents, which may have contributed to her impressive score of 195 marks in the Personality Test.
Conclusion
Anna Sinha's remarkable journey serves as a shining example of what can be achieved through unwavering determination, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of the human mind. Her ability to excel in both academic and civil services examinations, while balancing the demands of a PhD program, is truly inspiring. By sharing her insights and strategies, Anna Sinha has provided a roadmap for aspiring civil servants, encouraging them to approach their preparation with a similar level of focus, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning and personal growth.