Ritu, AIR-739 CSE-22 Journey, Prelims-Mains Booklist & Strategy

Ritu's Incredible Journey to Success: From Setbacks to Triumph in UPSC CSE 2022

Ritu's journey to success in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2022 is a testament to the power of perseverance and resilience. After resigning from her job in 2017, she embarked on the challenging path of preparing for the coveted exam, determined to make her mark. However, her initial attempts in 2017 and 2018 did not yield the desired results, as she was unable to clear the Preliminary examination.

Overcoming Obstacles and Adapting Strategies

Undeterred by her initial setbacks, Ritu went back to the drawing board and made some crucial changes to her preparation strategy. In 2019, she appeared for the Mains examination and the interview, but once again, she did not make it to the final list. Undaunted, she continued her pursuit, facing the disappointment of failing the Preliminary examinations in 2020 and 2021.

Learning from Experiences

Through this rollercoaster journey, Ritu experimented, changed, and refined her strategies, constantly evolving to meet the increasing difficulty of the UPSC examination. She learned valuable lessons from each experience, gaining a deeper understanding of the exam's requirements and the necessary adaptations to her approach.

Perseverance and Resilience

Ritu's unwavering commitment to her goal shone through as she persisted, determined to achieve her dream. Finally, in 2022, her hard work paid off, and she cleared the Preliminary examinations for both the Civil Services and the Forest Services. This remarkable achievement, after six attempts, is a testament to her resilience and the power of her determination.

Ritu's Prelims Strategy

Test Series and Time Management

Ritu utilized the test series provided by Vision IAS and Forum IAS to sharpen her skills and identify areas for improvement. She developed a systematic approach to solving the test papers, allotting 50 minutes for the first round and 20 minutes for the second round, leaving 30 minutes for the OMR sheet.

Effective Note-Taking and Revision

Ritu diligently compiled notes from the test solutions in Evernote, ensuring she could easily revisit and reinforce the key concepts. She emphasized the importance of revision and maintaining a calm mindset, recognizing that these factors are crucial for success in the Preliminary examination.

Importance of Newspaper Reading and Awareness

Ritu underscored the growing significance of newspaper reading and maintaining general awareness in the face of the increasing difficulty of the Preliminary examination in 2023. She emphasized the need to stay informed about the events and developments unfolding around the world, as they can often provide valuable insights and context for the exam questions.

Ritu's Mains Strategy

Essay Preparation

Ritu's approach to the Essay paper was multidimensional, encompassing a diverse range of perspectives, including social, political, economic, philosophical, and international relations. She compiled a collection of relevant quotes on broad topics such as democracy and women's issues, and she also studied the essays of successful toppers to refine her own writing.

Leveraging Contemporary Events

Ritu demonstrated her ability to seamlessly integrate contemporary events into her essay writing. For instance, she drew a thought-provoking comparison between the choices made by the leaders of Ukraine and Afghanistan during times of crisis, highlighting the nuances and complexities involved in decision-making.

Comprehensive Preparation

Ritu's preparation for the Mains examination was meticulous and comprehensive. She compiled key data and information on topics such as social justice, the economy, and international relations, ensuring she had a robust understanding of the relevant issues and trends.

Focused Approach to GS and Sociology

In her GS and Sociology papers, Ritu relied on her own extensive notes, complemented by the insights and approaches found in toppers' copies. She recognized the value of a case study-based approach in these subjects, which helped her present well-rounded and insightful answers.

Ritu's Advice and Inspiration

Ritu's journey serves as a shining example of the power of perseverance and self-belief. Her message to aspiring civil servants is to "be true to yourself" throughout the UPSC preparation process, whether it's in the subjects you choose to study, the approach you adopt, or the time you invest.

Ritu emphasizes that the UPSC journey is not just about clearing the examination but also about becoming a more informed and well-rounded individual. By embracing the learning process and finding joy in it, Ritu believes that candidates can unlock their true potential and achieve their goals.

Ritu's inspiring story is a testament to the transformative power of determination and resilience. Her journey from setbacks to success serves as a guiding light for future UPSC aspirants, reminding them that with unwavering commitment and a willingness to adapt, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome.