Prafull Kumar Sharma (AIR-249, CSE-21) Physics Strategy
Hi All, Prafull Kumar Sharma is a ‘silent member or observer’ of DecodeCIVILS group. I say so because when I was identifying group members who cleared CSE-21, he DMed me and said he was in. However, I hardly remember him asking any query on group ever! You can contact Prafull at his Telegram Channel or at his Instagram. He cleared CSE-21 with AIR-249. His optional
The Unassuming Journey of Prafull Kumar Sharma to the Pinnacle of Civil Services
Prafull Kumar Sharma, a silent observer in the DecodeCIVILS group, has emerged as a formidable force in the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2021, securing an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 249. Despite his low-key presence in the group, Prafull's journey to success is a testament to his unwavering dedication and strategic approach to the examination.
Prafull's Background and Preparation Journey
Hailing from a humble background, Prafull Kumar Sharma's journey to the Civil Services is marked by his persistence and resilience. Although he did not actively engage in the group discussions, he meticulously followed the guidance and strategies shared by his peers and mentors. Prafull's optional subject for the CSE was Physics, a choice that showcased his analytical acumen and attention to detail.
Leveraging Resources and Strategies
Prafull's preparation for the Physics optional was a well-planned affair. He utilized the comprehensive notes and resources provided by renowned experts like Rishav Gupta and Abhijeet Agrawal, which served as an excellent starting point for his studies. Recognizing the importance of a structured approach, Prafull also attended the DIAS test series in his previous attempts, which helped him develop a disciplined answer-writing strategy.
Systematic Approach to Syllabus and Revision
Prafull's strategy for the Physics optional was rooted in a systematic approach to the syllabus. He focused on solving all the solved examples and reading chapters that were directly mentioned in the syllabus or had appeared in the past year's question papers. Prafull also acknowledged the value of Indian authors' books, which he had initially overlooked, but later realized were crucial for UPSC's assessment.
To ensure comprehensive revision, Prafull maintained detailed summary notes of approximately 20 pages for each topic, allowing him to consolidate his understanding and have a quick reference during the examination.
Exam-Day Strategies and Execution
Prafull's success in the CSE 2021 was not just a result of his preparation but also his strategic execution during the examination. He followed the principle of attempting all non-compulsory questions first and then focusing on the easier questions he had solved beforehand at home. This approach not only boosted his confidence but also allowed him to maximize his score in the Physics paper.
Attention to Detail and Presentation
Prafull emphasized the importance of providing a well-structured and presentable answer. He ensured that all graphs used in the questions were properly labeled, and the introduction and conclusion of each answer were concise and relevant. His attention to detail in these aspects helped him secure valuable marks.
Resources and Recommended Booklist
Prafull's success in the Physics optional is also attributed to his effective use of resources and a well-curated booklist. For Paper 1, he relied on the JC Upadhyay book for Mechanics, the Satya Prakash book for Electromagnetism, the Garg Bansal Ghosh book for Thermodynamics, and the Brijlal and Subramaniam book for Optics.
In Paper 2, Prafull's booklist included the HC Verma book for Quantum Mechanics, the Rajkumar book for Atomic and Molecular Physics, the SB Patel book for Nuclear and Particle Physics, and the Puri and Babbar book for Solid State Physics. He also utilized online resources to supplement his understanding of Electronics.
Conclusion
Prafull Kumar Sharma's journey to success in the CSE 2021 is a testament to his unwavering commitment, meticulous planning, and strategic execution. Despite his low-key presence in the DecodeCIVILS group, he has emerged as a shining example of how a systematic approach, coupled with a deep understanding of the subject, can lead to exceptional results. Prafull's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring civil servants, encouraging them to trust their abilities and stay focused on their goals, regardless of the obstacles they may face along the way.