Prajnanandan Giri (CSE-23 AIR-24) Journey, Geography & Comprehensive Strategy

Prajnanandan Giri: A Journey Through UPSC CSE 2023

Introduction

Prajnanandan Giri, a dedicated UPSC aspirant, has successfully secured the 24th rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2023. His journey to this achievement was marked by resilience, strategic planning, and unwavering determination. This post delves into the background, preparation strategy, and insights shared by Giri to help other aspirants navigate their own UPSC journey.

Background and Journey

Early Life and Education

Prajnanandan Giri was born and brought up in Karanjia Town of Mayurbhanj District in Odisha. He completed his Integrated MSc in Chemistry from the National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) in Bhubaneswar, an autonomous institute under the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India. His graduation in 2020 marked the beginning of his pursuit to become an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, fuelled by his family's dream and his own aspirations.

Initial Struggles and Decision to Prepare for Civil Services

During his time at NISER, Giri was initially inclined towards pursuing a PhD abroad, following the trend set by his peers. However, the lack of job satisfaction and the desire for a diverse career led him to reconsider his plans. With the support of his family, he decided to start preparing for the Civil Services examination instead. This marked the beginning of his UPSC journey.

Multiple Attempts and Challenges

Giri's initial attempts were marked by some hurdles. In his first attempt in 2020, despite clearing the Preliminary Examination, he failed to make it past the Mains due to insufficient preparation. This experience highlighted the need for a more structured and comprehensive preparation strategy. In subsequent attempts, he also faced challenges balancing his job with the rigorous preparation required for the UPSC examination.

Successful 4th Attempt: 24th Rank in UPSC CSE 2023

Giri's 4th attempt proved to be the turning point. Despite the distractions of a job, he managed to secure the 24th rank in the UPSC CSE 2023. This achievement was the culmination of years of hard work, strategic planning, and consistent efforts.

Preparation Strategy

When and How to Start Preparation

Ideal Timing

The ideal time to begin preparation is during one's graduation. Completing the basics like 11th-12th NCERTs before full-fledged preparation can provide a strong foundation. It is essential to complete the basic syllabus of General Studies (GS) and the optional subject first, focusing on conceptual understanding.

Steps for Preparation

1. Basic Syllabus Completion: Begin by finishing the basic syllabus of GS and the optional subject.
2. MCQ Practice: Start solving multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and practice answer writing.
3. Content Enrichment: Focus on enriching the content and improving the quality of answers.
4. Full-Length Tests: Conduct full-length tests in exam-like conditions to assess and improve performance.

Timetable and Planning

While Giri did not have a daily timetable, he ensured monthly, weekly, and daily targets were met. He used A4 sheets to plan his monthly study schedule and kept them in front of him while studying. This method helped him stay motivated and track his progress effectively.

Preparation with Job

Giri's last two attempts were during his tenure at Odisha PSC. Balancing a full-time job with UPSC preparation required a disciplined approach. He focused on the essentials and utilized his previous preparation to clear Prelims with minimal effort. His primary focus was on Mains, where he concentrated on content enrichment and improving his writing speed.

Prelims-Cum-Mains Books & Strategy

Key Books and Resources

Giri utilized a variety of books and resources for his preparation, including:

1. Modern History:

   • Spectrum Modern History
   • Pratik Nayak Classes on Unacademy

2. Ancient & Medieval History with Art & Culture:

   • 11th-12th NCERT
   • Tamilnadu textbook
   • Art & Culture by Nitin Singhania
   • Pratik Nayak Sir Classes on Unacademy

3. Geography:

   • NCERT 11th, 12th
   • GC Leong
   • Sudarshan Gurjar Classes on Unacademy

4. Indian Society:

   • Smriti Shah Classes & Notes (VisionIAS)

5. Polity & Governance:

   • Laxmikant
   • SunyaIAS GS2 Notes
   • OnlyIAS Prahaar Mains Booklets

6. International Relations:

   • PT 365 of VisionIAS
   • Mains 365 of VisionIAS

7. Economy:

   • Classes and Notes by Mrunal Patel Sir on Unacademy
   • Data and Facts from Mains 365

8. Environment:

   • Environment Book by Vaishali Anand
   • PT 365 of VisionIAS
   • Mains 365 of VisionIAS

9. Internal Security:

   • SunyaIAS GS3 Notes
   • OnlyIAS Prahaar Mains Booklet

10. Science & Technology:

    • PT 365 of VisionIAS
    • Mains 365 of VisionIAS

11. Ethics:

    • Decode Ethics Book
    • Classes by Pavan Kumar on Unacademy
    • Mains Marks Improvement classes by KalamIAS
    • Toppers Mock Answer Copies

Geography Optional Strategy

Giri emphasizes the importance of taking the Geography optional subject only if one has a genuine interest in the subject. His strategy for the Geography optional includes:

1. Foundation Classes: Begin with foundation classes from a reputed institute.
2. Conceptual Understanding: Focus on topics requiring strong conceptual understanding, like Geomorphology and Climatology.
3. Classes by Himanshu Sir: Take 500+ classes by Himanshu Sir to fill gaps and learn the art of linking concepts across papers.
4. Practice Answer Writing: Regular practice of answer writing and revision of class notes.
5. Full-Length Tests: Conduct full-length tests in exam-like conditions and evaluate the answers.
6. Summarised Notes: Create summarised notes for each topic for effective last-minute revision.

Role of PYQs

Practice of Previous Year Questions (PYQs) and the syllabus are crucial for UPSC preparation. Giri kept the PYQs of Mains on his table while reading to align his thinking with the exam pattern.

Essay Strategy

For essays, Giri recommends:

1. Fundamentals of Essay and Answer Writing by Anudeep Durishetty Sir.
2. Smriti Shah’s Approach on Essay (available on YouTube).
3. Toppers’ Copies: Go through the essays of successful candidates.
4. Framework: Develop a framework like 'Past-Present-Future' or 'PESTEL' to structure the essay.
5. Philosophical Arguments: Differentiate essays from General Studies answers by adding philosophical or ethical arguments.

Last But Not the Least

Giri emphasizes that there is no perfect strategy or book that guarantees success. It is essential to learn from the experiences of toppers but devise one's own plan based on personal strengths and weaknesses.

Conclusion

Prajnanandan Giri’s journey through the UPSC CSE 2023 is a testament to the power of strategic planning, resilience, and unwavering commitment. His insights into preparation strategies, the importance of a structured approach, and the need to adapt to personal circumstances can serve as valuable guidance for aspirants navigating their own UPSC journey.